Join us for an author discussion, panel, book signing and reception for Against the Current: Father Tom Oddo and the New American Catholic by author and UP Alum Tyler Bieber.
A compelling new biography of Fr. Tom Oddo, CSC, UP’s 17th President, Against the Current tells a largely forgotten story of Fr. Tom’s pioneering ministry to LGBTQ+ community in the context of the changes in the Church and American culture in the aftermath of the Second Vatican Council. Tyler Bieber will talk on Fr. Oddo’s impact on ministry on the margins as well as his shaping of UPs campus and future as a Catholic, Holy Cross university in and with Portland. An essential read and talk for those interested in LGBTQ+ history, modern Catholicism, and untold activism.
Father Thomas Oddo (1944–1989)—known simply as “Father Tom”—pioneered LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Catholic Church. In the wake of Stonewall and the Second Vatican Council, he paved the way for those seeking a space where faith and identity could coexist. He co-founded DignityUSA at just 29 years old, positioning himself as a key figure in the fight for civil rights. By 38, he became President of the University of Portland, a rising academic star poised to transform higher education. A tragic car accident cut his life short at 45, but his story and his legacy continue to impact the course of the Church today.
TYLER BIEBER is a queer higher education professional based in Portland, OR. He has held roles at Clark College, National University of Natural Medicine, Linfield University School of Nursing, and Oregon School of Massage. He is currently the Assistant Registrar at Willamette University’s Pacific Northwest College of Art. Tyler holds a B.A. in Liberal Arts & Sciences from The Evergreen State College and an M.A. in Higher Education & Student Affairs from the University of Portland.
FREE BOOK COPIES AVAILABLE TO UP students, faculty/staff, and alumni. UP community can request a free copy at COMPLIMENTARY BOOK. UP Alumni can request a free copy at 503-943-8505.
To purchase Against the Current visit UNENCUMBERED PRESS.
This event is hosted in partnership with UP Alumni Relations, and The Center for Gender and Sexuality, and the Garaventa Center to celebrate the intersection of UP history, leadership, ministry, and joy.
Free and open to all. For more information, please contact the Garaventa Center at: 503-943-7702 or garaventa@up.edu. ADA compliant event.
University of Portland
5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,
Portland, Oregon 97203-5798
503.943.8000
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