On June 11, 2025 our longtime friend and colleague Dr. Jack P. Calareso passed away after suffering a serious stroke. Jack’s absence will be felt deeply at Hyatt Fennell, where his wisdom, kindness, and strategic thinking have helped guide our executive searches since 2018. He also became a wonderful friend and mentor to firm co-founder Cheryl Hyatt after the passing of fellow co-founder Sr. Marylouise “Weezie” Fennell in 2022.
For over 40 years, Dr. Calareso has had a tremendous impact on the institutions he served as both an educator and an administrator. A Boston native, his lifelong passions for education and theology have helped guide his every choice, both personally and professionally. From his first days as a middle school teacher and director of religious education in Rochester, NY, and his years as a superintendent in Madison, WI, to eventually serving as president of five different colleges and universities, he always sought to lead by example. In turn, his leadership has inspired generations of students, faculty, and administrators to live in service of others and always strive to reach their full potential.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jack’s wife Rose and their family during this difficult time.
While many tears have been shed over Jack’s sudden passing, our hearts are buoyed by the thought of Jack and Weezie clinking a toast in heaven to celebrate the joyful reunion of two dear friends.
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Dr. Calareso brought extensive experience to his work at Hyatt-Fennell Executive Search, having served for over 40 years as an educator and administrator. His early career was in K-12 education as a teacher, school administrator, and superintendent. He then transitioned into higher education as a professor, dean, vice president, and provost. Over the past 20 years, Dr. Calareso has served as the president of five colleges and universities. Most recently, he has served as a special assistant to a college board and a consultant in areas of planning, assessment, college mergers, and collaborations and leadership development.
Dr. Calareso earned his undergraduate degree from Boston College and his doctoral degree from Marquette University. He was an invited member of Harvard’s initial program for Experienced Presidents.
