#United States #Pittsburgh #Duquesne University #David Dausey

Duquesne University Welcomes President David Dausey

On September 17, 2026, Duquesne University celebrated a sweeping inauguration ceremony to mark the official induction of Dr. David J. Dausey as the institution's 14th president. The event took place at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse and witnessed an impressive turnout of nearly 1,000 students, faculty, alumni, and local dignitaries, turning the gathering into a vibrant celebration of community and ambition, themed "Enduring Mission. Emerging Pathways."

The ceremony commenced with a grand academic procession, featuring around 300 individuals, including delegates from various educational institutions, all led by Provost Dr. Sarah Ewing accompanied by stirring bagpipe music. The parade of faculty and board members, with Dr. Dausey at its heart, was met with cheers from students and staff lining the route. Notable speakers, including Pittsburgh Bishop Mark A. Eckman and Mayor Corey O'Connor, addressed the gathering, reflecting on the significance of this moment for both the university and the wider community.

Duquesne's Board of Directors Chair, Diane Hupp, presented Dr. Dausey with the university's historic presidential medallion, a symbolic passing of leadership that has been in place since the inaugural ceremony of 1931. In her remarks, Hupp emphasized the collaborative transition that had been established over the past ten months with Dr. Dausey at the helm. "We have come together to draw a map for the future, while listening and building relationships that serve both our students and the region," she remarked.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Dausey articulated his vision for enhancing student opportunities and expanding the university's influence well beyond Pittsburgh.