The Rev. John Haugen, fondly known around campus as “Padre,” will be leaving campus for a sabbatical that will begin at the end of the semester.

He acknowledged the sadness that comes with leaving behind the friendships made during his past seven years as dean of campus spiritual life. However, the decision is one he has been considering for a while, with two chief reasons in mind: higher education and a new appointment before retirement.

Haugen has been at Loras for seven years. Six years ago, he began thinking about pursuing a doctoral program. He began speaking with Archbishop Hanus, but the timing was inconvenient, and his plans were put on hold. Now, however, Haugen has been granted a sabbatical, and he is following through on his desire to pursue higher education.

“I want to do a doctoral program,” he explained, adding that he’s looking into one at the Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis.

“Here at Loras, we talk about being the best version of ourselves,” he added. “For me, it’s a good time to jump in. And in terms of timing, it makes sense to do this now, in relation to retirement.”

Last year marked his 25th anniversary of entering the priesthood. Haugen explained that, in terms of serving at a single parish, a period of 12 years is considered to be a “long appointment.” Leaving now means he has time to earn his doctorate and still serve a long appointment before retiring.

His position will be filled by the Rev. William Joensen. Due to the many responsibilities that the dean of campus spiritual life has, Joensen will relinquish his current position as chair of the Philosophy, Religion and Theology Division, as well as his duties as supply priest and Clarke chaplain. However, he will continue to teach, so an additional priest will be assigned by the archbishop to share some of the responsibilities that accompany Joensen’s new post.

Speaking of his time at Loras, Haugen said, “My work in education has been really rewarding. With college students, I get to see what the future looks like, and it’s really hopeful – the future of the Church is hopeful. I have every confidence of Loras’ continued success in terms of Catholic education in this country, and I’m really glad I’ve been able to play the part I have in getting us to where we’re going.”