Curiosity, Conviction, and Finding Her Calling

Colleen Hanycz is a native of Toronto who grew up in a home shaped by thoughtful debate and big questions. Her faith has been a steady throughline in her life, grounding her sense of purpose and responsibility. 

Her own undergraduate experience unfolded gradually. Much of her learning came through leadership roles, experiential education, and co‑curricular life. That journey shaped how she understands students—especially those still finding their footing and sense of direction. 

She began her career in law, drawn to its rigor, discipline, and respect for careful reasoning. While practicing, she was invited to guest lecture—and in that moment, something shifted. Teaching is where she found her calling, and she reoriented her career to answer it. 

Over the years, she has led Catholic institutions with clarity and conviction. She is still asking big questions that spark thoughtful debate, all in the service of something larger than herself. She and her husband, Peter, have raised three children, alongside several miniature schnauzers. She has always defined home as wherever her family is, and today, she is especially grateful to build that home in Cincinnati, Ohio.