The Heights article of April 26, 2021 describing allegations against Fr. Ted Dziak contains erroneous and irresponsible claims about me and my role as President of Boston College. A response is necessary.
First, in the fall of 1997, I learned of concerns about Fr. Dziak and the Ignacio Volunteers program pertaining to his social interactions with students at Boston College. There were no reports of sexual misconduct by Fr. Dziak at that time and none have been made since. I discussed these matters with Fr. Dziak and reported them to his Jesuit superiors, emphasizing aspects of his behavior that conflicted with University standards.
Second, I was never Fr. Dziak’s religious superior, and was not consulted by the Province about his assignment to Jamaica or any subsequent assignment. Heads of Jesuit provinces make decisions about assignments of Jesuits, a fact that The Heights could have easily obtained if it had spoken with officials of the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus.
Finally, in the summer of 1998 following his departure from campus, several individuals asked if they could talk with me about their experiences with Fr. Dziak. I met with them and reported their comments to Jesuit superiors. At that time I had no authority or administrative responsibility regarding Fr. Dziak, and that has been true in the 23 years since.
Sincerely,
University President William P. Leahy, S.J.
