Olinger oversees the University’s non-academic programs, strives to create a strong community
Fr. Gerry Olinger (Jackie Jeffers)
By Rose Hoonan, Staff Writer -- hoonan15@up.edu
Fr. Gerry Olinger, who was recently promoted to vice president of student affairs from executive assistant to the president, is busy these days following through on his New Year's resolution to meet with every staff member he oversees.
"It's important to get to know the people I work with," Olinger said. "It's a great learning experience for the department and entire division."
Though his position involves many aspects of university life, Olinger focuses on the education of the heart, which he sees as fundamental to the educational experience of students.
"The heart is just as important," Olinger said. "This can be implemented through mentorships. There are tons of options, such as creating personal relationships in residence halls, with hall directors, through the Moreau Center and off campus."
Olinger, who now oversees the Office of Residence Life among many other campus departments, is also the pastoral resident of Kenna Hall and previously served as the hall director and assistant hall director of Villa Maria Hall.
"It was his first year as a priest," junior Austin Veiga said about Olinger, who was the hall director for Villa Maria during the second semester of Veiga's freshman year. "He was learning the ropes and so were we. He was always a caring person, and looked out for everyone in the dorm."
Previous to his work on at UP, Olinger graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree in history and government from the University of Notre Dame. In 2004 he received his juris doctor and in 2009 he received his master of divinity degree. Olinger was ordained a priest in the Congregation of Holy Cross in 2010.
The Olinger name is becoming a common name on campus: Olinger's sister, freshman Colleen Olinger, plays on the women's basketball team.
"I love being at the same school as my brother," Colleen said. "I was four when he went to college, so this is one of the first times we are in the (same) state for a long period of time. I have been able to meet a lot of great people through him and his profession."
Olinger said his previous experience has made his transition to his new role smooth.
"Having a new job always makes me nervous, especially it being an important position," Olinger said. "The transition has been great, and I am humbled to be a part of it all."
