What is CATHOLIC Liberal Arts | University of Dallas President Dr. Jonathan Sanford | Episode #021

Jun 5, 2023

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

The BeatiDudes proudly welcome Jonathan J. Sanford, Ph.D., the 10th president of the University of Dallas.

Dr. Sanford, who previously served as provost and dean of UD’s Constantin College of Liberal Arts and holds a doctorate in philosophy, is a noted scholar in virtue ethics. Dr. Sanford has published widely on philosophical figures and topics, especially in foundational questions in moral philosophy, as evidenced in “Before Virtue: Assessing Contemporary Virtue Ethics” (The Catholic University of America Press 2015). As provost, Dr. Sanford oversaw the development of a university-wide strategic plan, and as president, he is focused on leading its implementation by building on the university’s reputation for academic rigor, its commitment to classical Western tradition, and its faithful Catholic identity.

During this episode, Dr. Sanford provides deep insight into the approach to formation and education philosophies of the University of Dallas. He calls upon several key teachings, including St. Pope John Paul II’s “Ex Corde Ecclesiae” and St. John Henry Cardinal Newman’s “The Idea of a University.”

Then on “Blessed are the Joke Makers,” the Dudes square off to finish the statement, “Lord, I need [blank]” as a drill sergeant.

The second half of the show explores Dr. Sanford’s education and career journey. We learn more about the mentors, saints, and materials that formed Dr. Sanford’s love for philosophy and teaching. Dr. Sanford penned several books along the way and then received a call to join the University of Dallas and grew to quickly love the University in a special way.

This episode’s TBD Question (The BeatiDudes Question) asks which educator(s) left a big impression on your life.

And finally, the Dudes finish with a fun Reverse Simpsons called “Just Ask JJ” during which Dr. Sanford has to answer three questions and attempt to get the same answer that his wife gave before the show. Will he get them all? Or perhaps none? Watch and see.