Bob Ryan joined the Brophy faculty in 2000 as a mathematics teacher and staff member in the Christian Service Office, now known as the Office of Faith and Justice. Prior to arriving at Brophy, he spent two years as a full-time volunteer at Andre House of Arizona, ministering to men and women experiencing homelessness. It was there that he first encountered Brophy students and faculty through their service to the poor and was introduced to the school's Jesuit mission.
While awaiting the start of law school, Bob accepted a midyear teaching position at Brophy. Inspired by the school's mission and community, he deferred law school for a year and has been deferring it ever since.
Over his tenure at Brophy, Bob has served as a religion teacher, Chair of the Religion Department, Assistant Principal for Ministry, Principal, and now President. He was named Principal in 2006 and served in that role until July 2023, when he became Brophy's 12th President.
President Ryan continues to teach on campus, leading an elective for juniors and seniors titled Profiles of Vocation: Industry and Entrepreneurialism.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Education from Arizona State University, and a Master of Arts in Catholic School Leadership from the University of San Francisco.
His community involvement has included service on the Boards of Directors of Andre House of Arizona, the Human Services Campus, All Saints' Episcopal Day School, and the Jesuit Schools Network, as well as the Advisory Board of St. Francis Xavier School.
Bob and his wife, Kathleen, a Behavioral Health Therapist at Xavier College Preparatory, are longtime Phoenix residents and the proud parents of two daughters.