Inclusion and Service: Top Priorities for New LI Campus Minister

Jonathan Galo, the new director of Campus Ministry at the Long Island Campus, is helping to usher in a new era of faith at St. Joseph’s University, New York.

Mr. Galo arrived at SJNY in July as the University was putting the finishing touches on the campus’ new Student Center, which features a new campus chapel and an inclusive multi-faith center.

Meeting the modern faith needs of the University and the surrounding community is a priority for Mr. Galo.

“I want to do more things interfaith related,” said Mr. Galo, the holder of two master’s degrees in Catholic theology. “We have this wonderful space in the new building that’s an interfaith room, so I want to do a lot more services and give students resources to learn about different faiths.”

While his background is in the Catholic faith, he is excited to embrace the spiritual diversity of the Long Island Campus.

“I want Campus Ministry to be a place where people feel comfortable,” he said. “We want to provide opportunities for people to share their experiences and learn about faith.”

Mr. Galo’s involvement with campus ministry programs dates back to 2007 when he attended Saint Leo University as an undergraduate student. He has drawn on his positive experiences in those programs while working in youth faith formation.

“I want to have a listening ear for students,” he said of his intended open-door policy. “One of the things I appreciated about campus ministry programs as a student was having a place to go, being with people and hanging out.”

He cited the University’s continued partnership with the Sisters of St. Joseph and their enthusiasm for community service as a strong influence on his planned programming.

“I think for the work of Campus Ministry, it’s super important to carry on the charism of the Sisters, especially their dedication to service,” Mr. Galo said. “We must keep that spirit alive because if we lose that tradition, then we lose our identity as a school.”

Mr. Galo intends to maintain service opportunities on campus and in the community through food and toy drives, Alternative Spring Break trips, and new initiatives.

He said he believes the spiritually diverse University community — which includes many without clearly identified beliefs — can get behind impactful service programs.

“How we help our brothers and sisters is such an important part of our faith lives, but I don’t think you need to come from any faith tradition or background to be a good person and to help others,” he said.