The end of this school year also brings the end of his Rockhurst tenure for Father Daniel Tesvich, SJ. After serving here for eight years, he is being moved to St. Louis University High (SLUH), one of two Jesuit high schools in St. Louis. His departure underscores the interconnectedness of Jesuit educational institutions and reflects the deep-rooted principles guiding Jesuit education.
“Every man is missioned by his Provincial Superior,” Fr. Tesvich said. “It is the custom that men are not kept in one mission for their entire life but sent to different places and ministries.”
Fr. Tesvich presided over masses, listened to confessions and served as a member of both the theology department and pastoral office. His Intro to Catholicism II class was the place he had the most interaction with students. His emphasis on classroom discipline and note-taking skills created a structured learning environment.
“He always excelled at teaching through note-taking and quizzes, his class definitely taught me a lot about the faith,” sophomore Dillon Darby said.
Fr. Tesvich’s move to SLUH aligns with the Jesuit practice of responding to evolving needs within the community.
“Currently we have more needs in Jesuit apostolates than we have men to send,” Fr. Tesvich said.
The decision for Fr. Tesvich to move is one made by the head of the Jesuits USA Central and Southern Province, the Very Rev. Thomas Greene, SJ.
“The Provincial gets to know the men in his province and the needs of the various apostolates and then missions his men,” Fr. Tesvich said. “He also has official consultors with whom he discusses major decisions, but those discussions are strictly confidential.”
As Fr. Tesvich embarks on this new chapter, his legacy at Rockhurst remains a testament to the enduring impact of Jesuit education. His dedication to nurturing young men of competence, conscience, and compassion serves as a guiding light for both current and future generations within the Jesuit educational network.
“In many ways he is a model for a lot of us as students,” sophomore Cooper Nickle said. “He showed up and worked hard everyday to teach us and to give us knowledge.”
Reflecting on his eight years here at Rockhurst, Fr. Tesvich says his favorite aspect was his spiritual and sacramental work.
“Celebrating masses, hearing confessions, and helping guide students on retreats here at Rockhurst was my most joyful time as a priest.”
Fr. Tesvich says he will miss the students and the colleagues with whom he formed strong bonds during his tenure.
His departure leaves just two Jesuit priests on staff at Rockhurst: Principal Father Vincent Giacabazi, SJ and President Emeritus Tom Pesci, SJ.
