Teófilo Sánchez García, a founding member of the University’s Board of Trustees, has passed away. Teófilo was instrumental in the founding of Universitat Internacional de Catalunya in 1997. “A key figure in driving the project forward,” according to Alfonso Méndiz, rector of UIC Barcelona. Teófilo Sánchez accepted the task of launching the University and served as a member of the Board of Trustees from the very beginning to 2004. 

“When I was asked, in the early 1990s, to form part of the University’s founding committee, I eagerly accepted. From the very beginning, those of us who founded Universitat Internacional de Catalunya were very clear that we wanted it to be a Christian-inspired university, because we were aware that Christian humanism provides a much more comprehensive view of people and stands as a reminder that the spirituality and its transcendent destiny are integral parts of knowledge and, ultimately, the path to truth,” recalled Teófilo Sánchez, in a chapter of the book published to mark the University’s 25th anniversary. 

For Teófilo Sánchez, the University was “a place of coexistence, growth and learning”. Among his contributions was the development of new academic initiatives and faculties, including the School of Architecture (ESARQ), whose creation he personally promoted in 1995, convinced of the importance of teaching architecture at the University. Over the years, his dedication and constant support left an indelible mark on the university community. 

As part of the University’s 25th anniversary celebrations, in June 2023, he was formally recognised for his key role in advancing the project, during a ceremony held at the Palau de la Música Catalana. This was one of the last public events in which he took part. 

The Board of Trustees, the Board of Governors and the entire university community extend their most heartfelt condolences and ask everyone to keep him in their prayers. Rest in peace.