The Mentors Radio Show

The Mentors Radio Show


418. From Rural Ireland to Founding a University—Guest Dr. Derry Connolly’s inspiring Journey of Vision, Faith and Grit

March 29, 2025


In this episode of THE MENTORS RADIO, Host Tom Loarie talks with Dr. Derry Connolly, a visionary entrepreneur, engineer, educator, and the founding president of John Paul the Great Catholic University—a unique university that merges faith, entrepreneurship and creativity. Derry left his home in Ireland to study at CalTech in Southern California, where he not only found a new country but also his future wife. He went from research and development (R&D) labs at IBM and Kodak to teaching innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of California at San Diego—and ultimately to building a university from scratch. You’ll hear a story of grit, faith, vision and purpose. You’re going to love this conversation. LISTEN TO the radio broadcast live on iHeart Radio, or to “THE MENTORS RADIO” podcast any time, anywhere, on any podcast platform – subscribe here and don’t miss an episode!


SHOW NOTES:

DERRY CONNOLLY, PhD: