Rev. Scott Pilarz, who spent two years as Marquette University s president, died March 10 due to complications with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig s disease or ALS. He was 61.
In his short time at Marquette, Pilarz oversaw the development of the university s strategic plan, which serves as the basis of the university s current plan for the future. He also guided Marquette into a newly reconfigured Big East conference.
In a statement Thursday, Marquette President Michael Lovell expressed his condolences to Pilarz s friends and family.
“Father Pilarz brought Marquette’s mission to life as a passionate educator, thoughtful leader and devoted man of faith,” Lovell said. “His legacy extends through the many lives he touched and through the invaluable groundwork he laid to establish our strategic plan, which will continue to guide the university into its bright future for years to come. He was a true servant leader in the Marquette community.
PBMC CEO Andrew Mitchell at a January 2020 event. (Credit: Mahreen Khan/file)
I remember the day like it was yesterday. It was a brisk afternoon in mid-March 2001, nearly 20 years ago. I had completed two interviews with the hospital board and now was attending a final session with the hospital leadership team and board at a social event at Paumanok Vineyards. As the sun set over the vines, a light snow began to fall. It was one of those beautiful scenes that are so common to the North Fork. Talk about incredible moments, between the scenery and camaraderie that day, I knew I wanted to become part of this amazing organization.