Duquesne University of the Holy Spirit is embarking on a national search for its 14th president, following President Kenneth G. Gormley’s announcement that he will step down on July 1, 2026, after a decade of transformative leadership, to assume the role of Chancellor. As Duquesne University prepares for the next chapter in its storied history, the institution seeks a forward-looking and mission-driven leader to serve as its new President. The ideal candidate will embody the Spiritan values of compassion, inclusivity, and service, while also possessing a deep understanding of the complexities of higher education and the ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of academia.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President of Duquesne University is an engaging and visionary leader who embodies the institution’s Spiritan mission and values. As the chief executive officer, the President is responsible for guiding the University's strategic direction, fostering a culture of academic excellence, and promoting a deep sense of community and purpose among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and beyond. The President is expected to navigate the complexities and challenges of higher education, while remaining true to the University's mission and values. The President serves as the public face of the University, providing leadership across campus and being an active and contributing leader within the community.

A terminal degree is preferred, along with a successful record of scholarly achievements. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned leader with a history of strategic visioning, exceptional fundraising, and collaborative leadership. Furthermore, the candidate of choice will possess a passion for creating transformative and relevant educational experiences that will prepare Duquesne students to make a positive impact in the world. Above all, the next President of Duquesne will be a champion of the University’s Catholic and Spiritan mission, an ardent spokesperson for the enduring value of higher education, and the embodiment of the University’s purpose in serving its students and the community.

The full prospectus is available here: https://dsgco.com/search/22098-duquesne-university-president

This is a full-time position that will be based on site in Pennsylvania. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.

Duquesne University was founded in 1878 by its sponsoring religious community, the Congregation of the Holy Spirit. Duquesne University is Catholic in its mission and ecumenical in spirit. Motivated by its Catholic identity, Duquesne values equality of opportunity both as an educational institution and as an employer.

Nominations and applications should be submitted electronically as soon as possible. The Search Committee begins reviewing applications across Summer 2025. Applications should include curriculum vitae/resumé and detailed letter of interest that responds to the presidential leadership agenda and the desired attributes for the new President expressed in the search prospectus. All materials will be considered in full confidence. DSG Storbeck has been exclusively retained for this engagement, which is being led by Julie Tea, Managing Director, and Kate Phillips, Senior Associate.

To express interest please submit materials here: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/22098

For nominations and inquiries, contact: [email protected]. All inquiries are strictly confidential.