Imagine a university leader who dares to dream big, even in the face of declining enrollment and budget crunches. That's Colleen Hanycz, the president of Xavier University, and why she's one of the most important people to watch in Greater Cincinnati in 2026. But here's where it gets controversial: can her ambitious plans truly transform Xavier's future? The Enquirer thinks so, and here's why.
Hanycz took the helm at Xavier in July 2021, stepping into a role that demanded bold action. Facing enrollment challenges and financial pressures, she hasn’t shied away from tough decisions. Her administration has ramped up fundraising, trimmed expenses, and introduced over 40 cutting-edge academic programs. And this is the part most people miss: she’s also established a new on-campus elementary school and mandated that most juniors, along with first- and second-year students, live on campus starting next fall. These moves, while sparking debate, aim to revitalize the university’s appeal.
But the crown jewel of Hanycz’s vision is the $109 million College of Osteopathic Medicine, the first new medical school in Ohio in nearly five decades. Set to open in 2027, it’s a bold bet on the future of healthcare education. Is this a game-changer or a risky investment? Only time will tell, but Hanycz is confident it aligns with Xavier’s mission of compassion and service.
Before Xavier, Hanycz’s journey was equally remarkable. A Canadian by birth, she earned a law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto and worked as a securities litigator. She later transitioned to academia, serving as an associate professor and assistant dean at Osgoode before becoming the principal of Brescia University College in Ontario. In 2015, she broke barriers as the first female president of La Salle University in Philadelphia. At Xavier, she’s the 35th president and the first layperson and woman to hold the position. Her personal life, marked by both joy and tragedy—including the loss of a daughter in 2017—adds depth to her leadership.
When asked how Xavier can attract more students, Hanycz emphasizes transparency in tuition and scholarships, exemplified by the Musketeer Forever Scholars program. But she also highlights the growing demand for purpose-driven, real-world experiences—internships, research, study abroad, and service opportunities rooted in the university’s Jesuit Catholic mission. Here’s a thought-provoking question: In an era of rising tuition and student debt, can such initiatives truly make higher education more accessible and meaningful?
What drives Hanycz? It’s the students. She speaks passionately about helping them grow into a 'bigger life'—one filled with purpose, confidence, and service. But let’s not sugarcoat it: achieving this vision requires navigating complex challenges and making tough choices. Is Hanycz’s approach the right one for Xavier’s future? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
As 2026 unfolds, all eyes will be on Colleen Hanycz and Xavier University. Will her bold moves pay off, or will they face unforeseen hurdles? One thing’s for sure: she’s not afraid to take risks to shape a brighter future. What do you think—is she the leader Xavier needs? Share your opinions below!
