A Priest and President: Fr. Malachi Van Tassell TOR

When you picture a university president, you might imagine a suit-clad academic managing meetings, fundraising, and administrative challenges. But Father Malachi Van Tassel defies those expectations, doting a Friar’s habit, he weaves Franciscan spirituality and priestly anointing into his role as president of St. Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania. With a background in accounting and higher education, Father Malachi’s journey to the priesthood and leadership is one of faith, resilience, and service.

Early Life and a Journey to Catholicism

Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, Father Malachi’s childhood was marked by loss and grace. His mother passed away when he was only seven, leaving his father to raise him and his two younger brothers. Later, his father remarried, bringing a stepmother, stepbrother, and stepsister into the family. This new chapter also brought a life-changing introduction to the Catholic faith.

“My stepmother was Catholic, and when she married my father, the entire family converted to Catholicism,” he recalls.

Raised in a faith-filled household, the family prayed the rosary nightly and regularly read scripture together. This foundation deepened when Father Malachi attended Our Lady of Lourdes High School, and later Franciscan University of Steubenville, where his faith flourished further.

A Career in Accounting

After earning a degree in accounting and Spanish, Father Malachi pursued a career in public accounting. Though he enjoyed the work and gained valuable professional skills, he began to feel a deeper call.

“It was while I was working as an accountant that I started discerning the priesthood,” he shares. Encouragement from friends and unexpected affirmations from conversations guided him toward exploring religious life.

Discovering the Franciscans

While discerning his next step, Father Malachi remembered his time at Franciscan University, where he had met the Franciscan Friars of the Third Order Regular. Their joy and welcoming spirit left a lasting impression.

“I thought to myself, ‘These friars seem happy—I could see myself with them,’” he says. His discernment eventually led him to join the order in 1997.

Father Malachi professed solemn vows as a Franciscan in 2003 and was ordained to the priesthood in 2004. He reflects on these milestones as pivotal moments of his life, each deepening his commitment to serving God and His people.

From Professor to President

Before becoming president of St. Francis University in 2014, Father Malachi served as an accounting professor for 12 years. His transition to leadership came unexpectedly.

“I always wanted to teach,” he explains. “Becoming president wasn’t part of my plan, but it became clear God had other plans.”

Now, nearly 10 years into his presidency, Father Malachi oversees the university with a pastoral heart, balancing administrative duties with a continued commitment to the spiritual and personal growth of students.

A Day in the Life of a Priest-President

Father Malachi’s day begins with a holy hour at 6 a.m., followed by morning prayer with his fellow friars. He makes time to attend or celebrate daily Mass on campus, prioritizing his priestly duties while managing the complexities of university leadership.

“I make it a point to spend time with students—whether it’s at lunch in the dining hall, at campus events, or during focus groups,” he shares. “It’s one of the great joys of my role.”

A Mission of Prophetic Witness

As president of St. Francis University, Father Malachi recognizes the unique role Catholic institutions play in forming young men and women who can carry the light of Christ into the world. He often emphasizes the importance of being a prophetic witness in today’s society—a task that requires courage, faith, and a deep reliance on God.

“Our campus is a microcosm of the broader culture,” Father Malachi explains. “The students arrive here with the influences and challenges of the world outside. But our mission is to form them into courageous disciples who can articulate and live out their faith.”

Father Malachi acknowledges that living as a prophetic witness isn’t easy, especially in a culture often resistant to truth. “If you want to be a prophet, go into your workplace and say something like, ‘Marriage is between a man and a woman,’ or ‘Abortion is intrinsically evil.’ You’ll find out quickly what it means to be countercultural,” he shares.

However, he encourages perseverance and trust, reminding students and colleagues alike of the eternal perspective that grounds all Christian action

Advice for Discernment

For those discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, Father Malachi offers this advice:

“Ask the Lord what He wants you to do. Listen to the people around you—they may be the voice of God guiding you. And don’t be afraid to take the first step. God will provide clarity as you go.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Faith

As he approaches his 25th anniversary of vows and 20th anniversary of priestly ordination, Father Malachi remains steadfast in his mission to lead, teach, and inspire. His life is a testament to trusting in God’s plan and embracing the unexpected with courage and joy.

Through his role at St. Francis University, Father Malachi continues to shape the lives of countless students, reminding them—and all of us—that holiness is found in the daily call to love and serve.