Francis E. Schiller

Francis was, first and foremost, a deeply spiritual Roman Catholic Priest whose devotion to the Jersey City community and 46-year-long affiliation with the St. Patrick & Assumption/All Saints parish touched countless lives. An affordable housing champion and the co-founder of the drug treatment and rehabilitation program Patrick House, Francis was an incomparably compassionate soul who embodied the very essence of what it means to lead a life in service to others.

Beyond his parish duties, Francis was an esteemed Hudson County legal and political figure. The founder of the Dr. Lena Edwards Academic Charter School, he was a source of inspiration for and provided valuable counsel to leaders from all walks of life. His ability to bridge the gap between business, politics, and faith made him an invaluable asset to the community.

In 2002, Francis played a pivotal role in establishing Connell Foley's Jersey City offices; his influence and support helped shape the firm into what it is today.

Francis made significant contributions to various health and ethical initiatives, serving as a member of the Governor's Health Services Investigation Committee (1971-1972), the Task Force on Health Care Delivery Systems for School-Aged Children (1973-1974), and the Hudson Health Systems Agency (1976-1980). His commitment to public service continued in the new millennium as he held positions as Chairman of the State Commissioner of Investigation (2001-2004) and Commissioner of the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board (2000-2001). Additionally, he participated in the Seton Hall School of Law Self-Study Committee (1999-2001).

Francis earned his Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1979 and his A.B. from Seton Hall University in 1961.

Professional and Community Affiliations

• Chairman, State Commissioner of Investigation (2001-2004)
• Commissioner, New Jersey State Athletic Control Board (2000-2001)
• Seton Hall School of Law Self-Study committee (1999-2001)