Presidential Search Process

Letter from the Board Chairman

January 12, 2026

Dear Cub Community,

I am pleased to share exciting news regarding the future leadership of University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy. After a thorough and thoughtful search, the Board of Directors is proud to announce that Fr. Daniel Dixon ’06, S.J., will serve as the 31st president of U of D Jesuit, officially assuming the role on July 1, 2026.

Fr. Dixon’s appointment represents a historic moment: he becomes only the third alumnus to lead our school, joining Fr. Jerome A. Petz ’33, S.J., and Fr. Malcolm Carron ’35, S.J., in this legacy of alumni leadership. His deep connection to U of D Jesuit is further strengthened by a multigenerational family commitment, his late father, Mike ’70, his brothers Michael ’02 and Tom ’04, and several uncles and cousins are alumni.

A graduate of the Class of 2006, Fr. Dixon brings both lived experience and extensive professional expertise as a Jesuit priest, educator, and school leader. He has served in strategic planning, curriculum development, parish leadership, and fundraising, and he has co-led successful capital campaigns, all of which prepare him to ensure the long-term sustainability and vitality of U of D Jesuit.

Fr. Dixon’s leadership comes at an important moment as we prepare to celebrate our 150th anniversary in 2027. He will advance the school’s mission through community engagement, strategic growth, and development efforts that will strengthen programs, expand opportunities for students, and secure the resources necessary to sustain the Jesuit formation of young men for generations to come.

As we celebrate this transition, we also honor Br. Jim Boynton, S.J., whose years of dedicated leadership and faithful service have profoundly shaped U of D Jesuit. His lasting impact will continue to inspire the community he has so deeply served.

We are confident that Fr. Dixon’s vision, energy, and personal investment in the school will inspire continued support from the entire U of D Jesuit community. I encourage you to join us in welcoming Fr. Daniel Dixon ’06, S.J., home and partnering with us in this exciting next chapter. Together, we will ensure that the school continues to thrive as a place where students are formed academically, spiritually, and morally, fully prepared to lead lives of faith, justice, and service.

For complete details on the announcement, click here. Thank you for your commitment, your generosity, and your faith in the mission of U of D Jesuit. With Fr. Dixon at the helm, the future of our school is bright, and I hope you share in our excitement for what lies ahead.

Sincerely, 

Christopher S. Polk ’93
Chair, Board of Directors