President O’Brien Placed on Administrative Leave

An investigation into alleged behavior currently underway

Father Kevin O’Brien, S.J. has been placed on administrative leave as an independent investigation is being conducted on behaviors that O’Brien exhibited in conversational interactions. 

“I have been informed by the Provincial of the USA West Province that the Jesuit Provincial Office recently received accounts that Father O’Brien exhibited behaviors in adult settings, consisting primarily of conversations, which may be inconsistent with established Jesuit protocols and boundaries,” said John Sobrato, Chair of the Santa Clara University Board of Trustees, in an email. “An independent investigation into these accounts is being conducted on behalf of the USA West Province and the conclusions of the Province’s process will be shared with the Santa Clara University Board of Trustees.”

Provost Lisa Kloppenberg will be stepping in as the Acting President while the investigation takes place, and Chief of Staff Molly McDonald and Chief Operating Officer John Ottoboni will also take on additional responsibilities. 

The Board of Trustees will not be providing interim updates as the investigation runs its course.