Dear University community,
It is with great sadness that I write to you about the death of Frank Persico, B.A. 1974, M.A. 1976, who served the University in many roles, including as vice president for University Relations and chief of staff.
Frank’s hometown was Hazleton, Pennsylvania, but he spent a majority of his life at this University, as a student and then on staff. He earned his B.A. in drama in 1974 and his M.A. in education in 1976. While a student, he was a member of Alpha Delta Gamma, the yearbook staff, and student government, and he played football.
During his professional tenure, he held many other positions at the University, including associate dean for external and student affairs at the Columbus School of Law, dean of students, and special advisor to the President. He also led University Advancement during a vice-presidential transition in that division. He retired from the University in 2018.
Frank loved this community, and we loved him. He played a key role in bringing Murphy’s Grill to fruition and was often the voice of the University to the public.
As it happens, we highlighted Frank in the upcoming edition of CatholicU magazine. Frank’s love of the University was evident as he spoke about what makes this community so special in forming lifelong friendships.
“I know five decades of people that I can say I have friends in each decade,” he said in an interview. “And they are friends that I could call today and tomorrow.”
Just outside my office at Nugent Hall is a road named Persico Way. It’s more than just a street: it welcomes people to campus, just as Frank did. When I speak about the unique community here on campus, it’s because of people like Frank, who endeavored to know as many people as possible and to listen to them. He fostered a sense of belonging that remains and thrives today.
We’re grateful for Frank’s life and his impact on the Catholic University community, and we extend our condolences to his wife, Stephanie, and their family.
Information about funeral services and a campus memorial is forthcoming.
Please join me in praying for the repose of the soul of our friend, Frank. May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Peter Kilpatrick
President