Frank Herrmann, S.J., named faculty director for BC Companions
Boston College Law School Professor Emeritus Frank Herrmann, S.J., has been appointed as the inaugural faculty director of the Boston College Companions program, which will begin in January.
Boston College Companions is a yearlong immersive education program for individuals looking to renew purpose, explore discernment, and deepen their spirituality at one of the world’s leading Jesuit, Catholic universities. The program combines academic study at BC with elements of Ignatian spirituality and is designed for accomplished leaders and professionals who want to reflect on their experiences, find deeper meaning and purpose, and consider the next chapter in their life journey.
Frank Herrmann, S.J. (Lee Pellegrini)
Fr. Herrmann, a 1977 graduate of BC Law, joined the faculty in 1991 after more than a decade as a criminal defense lawyer involved in trial and appellate cases. During his career at BC Law, he taught Evidence, Advanced Criminal Procedure, Criminal Process, and Introduction to Lawyering and Professional Responsibility; he also taught clinical programs at the Center for Experiential Learning. Although he retired in 2021, Fr. Herrmann continues to share his knowledge and experience, preparing students to represent inmates seeking parole from life sentences or on medical grounds.
In addition to his BC Law degree, Fr. Herrmann holds a bachelor’s degree from Fordham University and a master of divinity degree from Woodstock College.
“Having helped students consider their pathways in the legal profession, I am grateful now to be part of a program that will assist persons who are, or have been, engaged in fulfilling careers but who now desire to explore possible new directions in which to deploy their talents,” Fr. Herrman said. “The Companions will be able to draw upon the academic and spiritual resources of the University, engaging with faculty and staff from across the University in weekly seminars, courses, and reflection.”
A cohort of approximately 15 to 20 Fellows will be selected each year to participate in BC Companions. Fellows can choose courses in law, business, the humanities, science, education, social work, or theology and ministry, among other disciplines, providing an invigorating academic experience. Jesuits and BC faculty will serve as advisors, helping Fellows select courses and pursue their goals. The program offers guided conversations, retreats, and Masses. Throughout the year, participants of all faiths and spiritual backgrounds have the option to work with a spiritual director. Fellows will also participate in an Ignatian pilgrimage to Spain and Italy to learn about St. Ignatius and the distinctive Jesuit heritage. Upon returning, Fellows have the option to participate in a five-day silent retreat.
Provost and Dean of Faculties David Quigley praised Fr. Herrmann as the ideal candidate to serve as faculty director. “The design of the Boston College Companions program has benefited from the wise advice and support of a number of University faculty over the past few years. Fr. Frank Herrmann has been a visionary partner in imagining the possibilities for this new initiative. Frank’s standing as a master teacher and exceptional conversation partner makes him the ideal choice to serve as the program’s inaugural faculty director.”
For more information about the Boston College Companions program, visit bc.edu/companions.