The Wozniak Lecture Series
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 • 4 p.m.
Just Do the Right Thing
Jesuit education and the formation of leaders for justice
Palm Court, Mundelein Center for Fine and Performing Arts
Michael J. Boyle (MEd ’86, PhD ’92) draws on his experience as an educator, diocesan superintendent, scholar, and advocate for students with disabilities to explore what it means to recognize injustice and choose to do what is right—even when there may be little personal or institutional reward.
Reflecting on the Jesuit educators and mentors who shaped his understanding of justice, human dignity, and a preferential concern for those who are marginalized, Boyle considers how these commitments have influenced his leadership and scholarship.
The lecture will examine the responsibility of Jesuit higher education to form leaders who do more than understand the language of justice. They must develop the habits of mind, heart, and conscience to recognize injustice, stand alongside those who are marginalized, and act when doing so is difficult.
Keynote Speaker
Michael J. Boyle (MEd ’86, PhD ’92)
Michael J. Boyle (MEd ’86, PhD ’92) is executive director of the Herrmann Center for Innovative Catholic Education at Saint Louis University and a nationally recognized leader in Catholic education. With more than 30 years of experience, he has served as a superintendent, director, principal, special education coordinator, and school psychologist. A longtime advocate for inclusive education and mission-driven leadership, Boyle is the recipient of numerous honors, including Loyola’s Heart of Loyola Award and two Distinguished Alumni Awards.
Past Series
2025 Wozniak Lecture Series
In 2025, the lecture series featured education leaders for “The Unfinished Educator,” a candid conversation about the evolving roles of teachers and educational leaders. Loyola alumni and superintendents Michael Lubelfeld (EdD ’05) and Nick Polyak (EdD ’07), along with Illinois State Board of Education Chair, Steven Isoye, shared insights on leadership, resilience, innovation, and navigating change in today’s educational landscape.
2024 Wozniak Lecture Series
In 2024, the lecture series changed to a live podcast recording format that focuses on human rights in education. Learn more by listening to the thought-provoking discussion in which we continue Dr. Wozniak’s legacy of advancing education and fostering meaningful dialogue on the most pressing issues of our time.
2023 Wozniak Lecture Series
2023's three-part series on LGBTQ+ education provided invaluable insights into the ongoing fight for inclusion. The sessions examined the historical context of current challenges, shared real-world experiences from educators, and critically analyzed the narratives shaping LGBTQ+ education. Attendees left with practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to create more inclusive environments in their schools and communities.
Leadership in Education
John M. Wozniak
John Wozniak joined the faculty of Loyola University Chicago in 1950. The following year, he became acting chair of the Department of Education, a position he held for 18 years until the founding of the School of Education in 1969. He then served as dean for 10 years. John was a remarkable educator, scholar, mentor, colleague, and friend to those who passed through the School of Education. He retired in 1984 and remained active in School of Education alumni events until his death in 2013.