The Rev. Michael Keating, a St. Thomas faculty member who worked in the Catholic studies department, resigned Tuesday.
Keating’s letter of resignation, published on St. Thomas’ Newsroom website, read, in full: “After careful consideration of my current situation in light of my employment options and long-standing goals, I have decided to resign my faculty position with the University of St. Thomas effective immediately. I have greatly enjoyed my time at the university and take with me fond memories of the St. Thomas community.” President Julie Sullivan thanked Keating for his service to the university in the Newsroom article.
Robert Kennedy, chair of the Catholic studies department, said he was sorry to lose Keating.
“I’m sorry to lose a fine teacher and colleague, and I hope the future is good to him,” Kennedy said.
Vice President for University and Government Relations Doug Hennes said he did not know why Keating decided to resign.
Last October, a Twin Cities woman accused Keating of sexually abusing her in the late ‘90s. The woman filed a civil lawsuit against him.
Keating’s resignation comes one day after a group of St. Thomas theology department faculty released a letter criticizing the archdiocese’s handling of cases of alleged sexual abuse by priests.
Grace Pastoor can be reached at past6138@stthomas.edu.
A great and holy man. It was a privilege to be one of his students. He has been and will continue to be missed. Thank you, Father Keating.
A terrible loss for the church. A great man. We will miss him.