Rev. Jack Butler, S.J., will become Boston College’s 26th president in 2026. In an exclusive interview, he shares his vision, leadership approach, and deep ties to the BC community.
“An Exciting Next Chapter”: Faculty React to Butler’s Appointment as University President
Rev. Jack Butler, S.J., has been named Boston College’s 26th president, succeeding Rev. William P. Leahy, S.J., in 2026. Faculty highlight his deep ties to BC, leadership vision, and commitment to Jesuit values, while also noting challenges facing higher education.
BC Enforced Speech Restrictions and Thorough Approval Process for Pro-Palestinian Demonstration, Emails Show
Boston College administrators required organizers of a Feb. 13 pro-Palestinian demonstration to revise and remove portions of their speeches, disclose speakers’ identities, and refrain from using amplified sound and “public facing” advertising before granting approval to demonstrate on campus, according to email exchanges obtained by The Heights.
“I’m Very Grateful”: Rev. Jack Butler, S.J., To Serve as Next University President
Rev. John “Jack” Butler, S.J., Haub vice president for University Mission and Ministry, will serve as the 26th president of Boston College, Board of Trustees Chair John Fish announced in an email to the BC community Tuesday afternoon.
BC Researchers Voice Concerns Over NSF Funding Freeze
Boston College researchers express concern over the NSF’s temporary grant freeze and new funding restrictions under Trump’s executive order. While funding has resumed, uncertainty over DEI guidelines and potential NIH cuts raises fears about the future of research support.
No. 16 UMass Hits Buzzer-Beater Goal in Second Period, Grabs 3–2 Win Over No. 1 BC
No. 1 Boston College men’s hockey suffered back-to-back losses for the first time this season as the Eagles fell 3–2 to No. 16 UMass on Friday night at home.
Students and Faculty Protest on O’Neill Plaza, Call for Divestment, Action on Gaza
Boston College students and faculty protested Thursday, condemning activism suppression, demanding investment transparency, and criticizing BC’s silence on Gaza. Speakers called for divestment and accused the administration of stifling student rights.
“What Are We?”: Examining “Situationships” and Hookup Culture at BC
“If you’re going to be in a relationship, grow up and be a part of the relationship,” Bracher said. “Have an adult relationship, and if you want to get out of the hurt feelings and the BC lookaways, you’ve got to be able to talk about your feelings.”
No. 1 BC Drops 298th Battle of Comm. Ave, Loses 4–1 in Beanpot Final to No. 9 BU
No. 1 Boston College men’s hockey fell to rival No. 9 Boston University in the 2025 men’s Beanpot final on Monday night. The Eagles have not won the tournament since 2016.
BC Makes Revisions and Redactions to Office of Institutional Diversity Website
Boston College updated the Office of Institutional Diversity website, temporarily removing its diversity statement, newsletter, and revising initiatives. These actions come as President Donald Trump has signed an executive order dismantling federal diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.