Rob Vischer, who became president of the University of St. Thomas on January 1, 2023, is driving significant growth at the institution, which recently welcomed its largest freshman class in history. The fall of 2025 saw St. Thomas enroll 1,677 new students, contributing to a total enrollment of 9,876, a 4.6% increase from the previous year. Under Vischer’s leadership, the university is also on track to raise over $100 million from donations for the fourth consecutive year.
Vischer, who previously practiced law at Kirkland & Ellis and taught at the university since 2005, has emphasized the importance of adapting to the changing landscape of higher education. He aims to prepare students not only with academic knowledge but also with the character and virtues necessary for their personal growth. “What you find with high-achieving students is they’re picking up cues from the broader culture that they should always be thinking about what’s next,” Vischer explains. He encourages students to reflect on their personal development, asking themselves, “Who am I becoming?”
His vision aligns with the university’s mission to embrace students through Catholic social teaching, focusing on community leadership and compassion. Pat Ryan, chairman of Ryan Companies and a member of the St. Thomas board of trustees, highlights Vischer’s ability to lead with intellect and communication skills while fostering an environment that prioritizes the development of the whole person. Ryan states, “Our job is not to educate these kids just to get a job. We want our students to become leaders in this world.”
Transition to Division I and Future Aspirations
In a significant milestone for St. Thomas, the university opened a new $183.4 million arena in St. Paul in October 2025, marking its transition from NCAA Division III to Division I athletics. This change is not merely about sports; Ryan emphasizes the broader implications for the university’s national visibility, noting that “Division I gives us the opportunity to have a more national presence.”
The transition also reflects a strategic response to demographic trends affecting higher education. With fewer high school graduates, Vischer acknowledges that St. Thomas is operating in a “winner-takes-most market.” He believes the university’s size—just under 10,000 students—positions it well to attract prospective students who seek a vibrant campus experience without the overwhelming scale of larger institutions.
Vischer has guided the university’s recent developments, including the establishment of the Morrison Family College of Health, which focuses on the growing demand for healthcare professionals. He also emphasizes the need for a culture of encounter, fostering meaningful connections among students, staff, and the broader community. “We are made for connection, authentic connection,” he asserts.
Vischer’s Background and Educational Philosophy
Born in Muscatine, Iowa, Rob Vischer’s journey to leadership has been marked by personal growth and educational ambition. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of New Orleans before earning his law degree from Harvard Law School, where he developed a passion for teaching and mentorship. His experience as dean of the St. Thomas School of Law, where he was recognized as professor of the year by students, laid the groundwork for his current role.
Vischer’s teaching philosophy integrates real-world ethical considerations into the curriculum. For example, in discussing the Ford Pinto case, he encourages students to analyze corporate decisions through the lens of human dignity rather than mere economic efficiency. This approach not only enriches classroom discussions but also prepares students for the complexities of the modern workforce.
Looking ahead, Vischer remains committed to enhancing job placement rates for graduates. He notes, “Five years after graduation, our alumni have the highest average salaries of any college or university in Minnesota.” This focus on successful outcomes reflects his belief that a strong economic return is essential for students considering their educational investments.
As he continues to steer the University of St. Thomas through a transformative period, Vischer’s leadership exemplifies a blend of academic excellence, community engagement, and a commitment to developing well-rounded individuals prepared to thrive in an evolving world.
