Rockhurst University Welcomes Two Jesuits to Campus

Thursday, August 6, 2026

tags: Homepage, Academics, Campus Life, Faculty, Staff & Administration

Aerial view of Rockhurst University campus with bell tower above the trees

Rockhurst University welcomes two new Jesuits to campus this summer. Br. Carl Caceres, S.J., has been named vice president for mission and ministry. The Rev. Jason LaLonde, S.J., will serve as university chaplain and visiting assistant professor of theology and religious studies.

Br. Caceres began his new role Aug. 1, in which he will oversee all components of the mission and ministry division — community relations, service and action, and campus ministry. He recently completed his doctorate in higher education (Ed.D.) from the University of Chicago. He also holds degrees from the University of Scranton and Oxford University in Miami, Ohio.

This past fall semester, Br. Caceres served as the Jesuit in Residence for Loyola Chicago's Rambler Brotherhood Project, and he is also a formator for the Ignatian Colleagues Program, a program of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities.

“I was initially drawn to Rockhurst's commitment to Jesuit higher education expressed through the university's mission, vision, and values,” said Br. Caceres. “When I visited campus, I was struck by the robust sense of community as well as the tremendous passion and pride people have for the university. I am excited to become part of a strong leadership team and grateful for the opportunity to join the Rockhurst University family in the coming months.”

Fr. LaLonde recently completed his Ph.D. in systematic theology from the University of Notre Dame. In addition, he holds degrees from Boston College, Fordham University, the University of Florida and Florida State University. He entered the Society of Jesus in 2007 and most recently served as vice superior of the Jesuit community at Notre Dame.

In his dual roles at Rockhurst, Fr. LaLonde will teach theology and religious studies courses and participate in sacramental ministry for the campus community.

“I’m very excited to be in the classroom,” said Fr. LaLonde. “When I visited campus, I felt like there was a great openness among Rockhurst students and a great hunger for theological discussion. I sensed that people at Rockhurst are passionate about education, and I will be part of a great team working to form students for excellence.”