Rick Jeric, senior director for major gifts at the Pontifical College Josephinum, has been named as vice president for advancement at the seminary.
Jeric’s 25 years of experience in Catholic institutional and diocesan development and advancement includes major gifts, planning, annual giving, planned giving, capital campaigns and foundations.
Before joining the Josephinum staff as senior director for major gifts in October 2022, Jeric established the Catholic Foundation of West Central Wisconsin for the Diocese of La Crosse.
He also served on the seminary’s Board of Trustees for nine years – the longest tenure permitted by the board – from 2013 to 2022.
He previously was executive director for the Women’s Care Center in Columbus and the executive director for development and planning for the Diocese of Columbus for 14 years.
“A proven leader and collaborator, Rick brings unparalleled expertise in many aspects of fundraising, development, and planned giving,” said Father Steven Beseau, the Josephinum’s rector and president. “His insightful contributions to the Josephinum’s Board and his recent work in major gifts are a testament to his personal and professional commitment to the Church and our mission.”
Jeric will guide the Josephinum’s Advancement Office, providing strategic oversight to all aspects of fundraising including planned gifts, annual giving, and implementation of the Advancement portion of the seminary’s strategic plan recently approved by the Board of Trustees.
“The Pontifical College Josephinum is one of the great seminaries not only in America but the world,” Jeric said. “Its independent, pontifical identity makes it very unique, and to support the formation of future priests here is a true honor. I am both blessed and humbled to be in this new leadership position and to advance the Josephinum’s mission to form holy, generous, adaptable, and resilient priests for the 21st century.”
Jeric replaces Doug Stein, who served the Josephinum for three years.
“I am very grateful to Doug for his leadership, guidance, and help during this transition,” Jeric said. “Because of Doug’s leadership, we are in a solid position to move forward and further the mission of the Josephinum.”