OUT OF OFFICE, MOVING ON, AND FEELING GOOD

Out of Office, Moving On, By Fr. Bob Dueweke, O.S.A. and Feeling Good!

Catching Up with Fr. Bernie Scianna at Villanova University

It is now two years since I left the office of Prior Provincial in 2018 after having served two four-year terms for the Midwest Augustinians. Immediately after my term ended, I was privileged to enjoy a six-month sabbatical to rest, spend time with family and friends, and renew myself — physically, emotionally and spiritually. I am now entering my third academic year at Villanova University working in the Student Life Division.

I was asked to share some reflections on life after being Provincial. Leaving any office is a challenge. This was also true leaving Cascia Hall after having been Headmaster for 13 years. The one difference there was that, as Provincial, I was able to name my successor and was still on the Board at Cascia all the time I was in office. So the new Headmaster reported to me. There were a few times when friends and benefactors asked me to intervene in school matters when they didn't agree with the new one's decisions, but I did my best not to micromanage. I believe I was mostly successful!

But leaving the Office of Provincial, I am no longer 'ex officio' on any Boards, Committees or Councils. I pledged my support to the new Provincial and promised my availability to answer any questions he may have in the transition or to offer advice in the future if he wanted it. Fr. Pizzo did call on a regular basis in the first six months while he

Top: Fr. Bernie and Jasmine Thornton from Multicultural Greek Sorority Chapter at Awards Dinner for Excellence in Student Life. Middle: Scianna Family at Woodhaven Lakes where Fr. Bernie spent most of his sabbatical time.

8Bottom: Fr. Bernie and nephew Trevor Scianna at Villanova

The Midwest Augustinian | SUMMER 2020

got accustomed to his new role, and while that has waned over time, I do get an occasional call to provide historical context or friendly advice. There is a feeling of comfort, understanding and support when you can discuss things with someone who has sat in the chair which he now sits. I know what he is going through, and the many 'no-win' situations he has to deal with, because I did it for eight years! The same is true with those who have been heads of schools too. You just understand what is going on and can empathize with each other. I must say, it is affirming and humbling when someone calls to ask, “what would you do?”.

Leadership is such an interesting thing. You work hard when you're in office and everyone wants your ear, and then, when you're out, you're out —no more meetings, no more calls! If the new leader does not want your advice or input, so be it! This is initially a difficult pill to swallow. You give it your all to do what you think is best while you're in office, but then when you're finished, I believe it is important to move out of the way! When I became Provincial, I had to move from Tulsa to Chicago, and after I was finished with my two terms as Provincial, I felt it was best to move out to Villanova where I had hoped to work two other times before, but was told 'No' by two former Provincials. . . we do have a vow of obedience!

Fr. Tony Pizzo, as the new Provincial, had to agree to my new assignment for

"Scianna" continued on page 16