Holy Family University to Honor Father James Martin, SJ, and Mr. Louis P. Kassa III at 2025 Commencement

Holy Family University will recognize two distinguished leaders with honorary degrees at our 2025 Commencement ceremonies on May 17. Jesuit priest, author and advocate Father James Martin, SJ, will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters and serve as the keynote speaker for the undergraduate ceremony. Mr. Louis P. Kassa III, a trailblazer in biotechnology and scientific innovation, will also be honored with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters and will deliver the keynote address at the graduate ceremony.

Father Martin is a New York Times best-selling author and editor-at-large of America magazine. His acclaimed works, including Building a Bridge, have sparked vital conversations on faith and LGBTQ outreach within the Catholic Church. A frequent commentator on religion and spirituality in national media, he serves as a consultant to the Vatican’s Secretariat for Communications and has worked closely with Pope Francis on outreach efforts.

Mr. Kassa is president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center, where he has spearheaded significant growth in biotech research and innovation. Under his leadership, the center has expanded its impact, supporting nearly 90 biotech companies and advancing life sciences in Pennsylvania. His career spans leadership roles in nonprofit research and behavioral health, focusing on economic development and scientific discovery.

Holy Family University is proud to recognize these two outstanding individuals, whose dedication to service, leadership, and transformative change embodies our mission and values.