Rev. Michael J. Ahern was born on May 25, 1877 and entered the Society of Jesus on September 7, 1896.
His early teaching was spent at Boston College for four years after which he spent the fifth year of his regency teaching Mathematics, Geology and Astronomy at the Seminary, Woodstock College. In 1907, he was sent abroad to Innsbruck for his Theology where he was ordained in 1912. He returned to the United States in 1913 and was assigned to Canisius University to teach Chemistry and Geology for one year after which he made his tertianship at Poughkeepsie. In 1915, he went to Boston College where he taught Chemistry for four years. Father Ahern was appointed Rector of Canisius University on January 6, 1919, an office he held for four years. He was the first resident rector at Main and Jefferson.
In 1923, he was assigned to teach Chemistry at Holy Cross College, Worcester, MA and remained there until 1930 when he took up residence at the House of Studies for the New England Province at Weston, Mass. He taught at various times Chemistry, Geology and Astronomy and became well-known as the Diocesan Director of Radio programs.
Father Ahern died in Boston June 5, 1951. During his time as President of Canisius University, he founded the Summer School and Extension Courses for Teachers. In 1919, the famous Passion Play was presented throughout the summer.
