Few individuals have traveled as far to join St. John’s University as Rev. Tri M. Duong, C.M., the University Chaplain. Born in Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Fr. Duong journeyed 9,000 miles to New York City in 1991 and later earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy at the Queens campus.
Fr. Duong recalled his spiritual beginnings in Vietnam: “I was part of a small spiritual discernment group in Vietnam, where religion was not openly practiced,” he said. “I started to think that perhaps God was calling me.” He chose the Vincentian community due to his desire to work with young people.
Known on campus as “Fr. Tri,” he comes from a family that supported South Vietnam during its conflict with the North. After South Vietnam fell in 1975, his father was imprisoned by the communist regime.
Fr. Duong’s early life included serving as a sacristan at a local church alongside his devout Catholic mother who attended daily Mass at five a.m.
The opportunity for Fr. Duong’s family to relocate to the United States arose when those who had worked for the US were offered relocation options. He joined St. John’s University after entering the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington, NY.
Initially considering a career in computer programming, Fr. Duong spoke with Rev. Gerard H. Luttenberger about continuing studies in computers while pursuing priesthood; however, he ultimately dedicated himself fully to service within the Vincentian community and was ordained in 2005.
Aside from assisting at St Mary’s Church in Greensboro, NC—a parish with many Vietnamese members—Fr. Duong has remained committed to St John’s University over two decades despite commuting challenges between Staten Island and Queens campuses before relocating permanently back there upon closure of Staten Island’s campus last year (2024).
In his role as University Chaplain today on Queen’s Campus since returning from Greensboro—he provides emotional support across students’ alumni faculty administrators staff alike while ensuring inclusivity among different faiths through interfaith ministry efforts such organizing events like table tennis tournaments which help foster connections amongst participants challenging him both physically spiritually!
Victoria Santangelo ’98C ‘01GEd ‘11G Associate Vice President comments positively regarding Father Tri’s influence: “He believes getting know others important part ministry wants welcome growth faith evident everything does.”
Celebrating two decades priesthood amidst Congregation Mission marking its own milestone anniversary—Father reflects relevance founding principles asking how best serve less fortunate marginalized communities embodying values exemplified by founder Saint Vincent de Paul urging dignity respect towards all people recognizing divine presence within them this modern age (2025).
