Saint Louis University chancellor J. Barry McGannon, S.J. is gradually recovering from a surgical intervention that took place in August.

According to Jesuit Hall Rector John W. Padberg, S.J., McGannon showed physical manifestations in early August. Soon after, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor, which ultimately ended in surgery.

“After a very serious operation, he seems to be slowly and progressively recovering,” said Padberg.

McGannon has been a part the SLU community for 43 years.

From 1957 to date, he has served as administrative assistant to the president, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, vice president for Development and University chancellor.

McGannon’s many contributions to the University were formally recognized in 1998, when the former Institute for Technology building was renamed in his honor.

McGannon is well known for his extreme devotion to the SLU community and for his extraordinary ability to address others.

“Fr. Barry McGannon is especially memorable for three things,” said Padberg. “First, his great number of friendships in Saint Louis University. Second, his extraordinary ability to remember names. Third, his constant effort in helping undergraduates decide for their future,” Padberg said.

McGannon is now recovering on the third floor of Jesuit Hall, where doctors, nurses and therapists treat him.

Despite the difficulty of the operation, Padberg assures that McGannon “is regaining his wit and the sparkle in his eyes.”

McGannon claims to be “feeling pretty good,” despite his constant effort to combat fatigue. Moreover, he truly believes that spirituality has played an important role in his recovery.

“You have to be resigned by God’s will,” he said while comfortably reclining in his wheel chair.

McGannon is eager to return to his regular activities in order to continue fighting for the development of SLU.

“I have major responsibilities with the Saint Louis University community,” said McGannon.

McGannon is proud of the progress SLU has achieved in the past years. However, he believes that more improvements could be made.

“I want to make Saint Louis University a better place,” said McGannon. “I want to strengthen academics, finance and personnel.”

Moreover, McGannon stresses the importance of his role in the future of undergraduates. He strongly believes that students need encouragement to pursue their careers.

“Students often underestimate their individuality,” said McGannon. “I try to help them judge their ability to cope with the future.”

McGannon has proven to be a true friend, a major benefactor and, above all, a devoted server to the SLU community.

McGannon’s therapist, Ken Wooters, R.M., assures that McGannon is a kind and patient man, who never expresses a harmful word against anybody.

“A ton of visitors stop by to see him every day,” said Wooters. “Fr. McGannon is truly a very loved human being.”