Fr. Brian Cool, Director of the Catholic Newman Community for over 26 years, has accepted a new assignment from the Most Reverend John S. Bonnici, Bishop of Rochester. The assignment will be announced following his personal sabbatical. This sabbatical will provide Fr. Cool time for well-deserved rest and renewal, as well as time for preparation for his next ministry.

Throughout his tenure, Fr. Cool faithfully accompanied thousands of students as a guiding presence through the joys and challenges of their time at University of Rochester as well as celebrating the sacraments. His vision and leadership were instrumental in establishing the Joseph P. Mack Catholic Center and the William and Mary Carpenter Family Catholic Chapel, which are now a permanent spiritual home for the Catholic Newman community that will serve students for generations to come.

On Monday, July 27, 2026, Bishop Bonnici appointed Jennifer Hughes as Interim Director of Campus Ministry at the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology. Jennifer has served as Campus Minister with the Newman Community since August 2025 and brings more than a decade of experience in ministry to the communities. She looks forward to continuing the mission of accompanying students in their faith journeys and building upon the strong foundation established by Fr. Cool.

The Catholic Newman Community thanks Fr. Cool for his faithful service, commitment, and lasting impact on Catholic life at the University of Rochester. We ask that you keep him in your prayers as he begins this new chapter of ministry.