James P. McCloskey

The Rev. James P. McCloskey C.S.Sp., Ph.D., who has had a close association with Duquesne for many years, is a senior advisor to the president for strategic initiatives. President Ken Gormley created the new position to provide leadership in identifying institutional priorities and developing strategic planning for the University. In this role, McCloskey works closely with the president on a wide range of projects and interacts with University leaders, faculty, and staff, as well as community leaders, to identify new opportunities for alignment with Duquesne's institutional priorities.

McCloskey, who recently completed an advanced biblical study program with the University of Notre Dame in Jerusalem, served as president of Holy Ghost Preparatory School in Bensalem, Pa., from 2013-2015. Under his leadership there, both enrollment and the school's endowment increased, and he recruited his successor and the school's first lay president. He first served as president at Holy Ghost Prep from 1990-2002, during which enrollment increased by 50 percent; the school conducted its first capital campaign; and construction and renovations led to the building of Founders Hall, improved science labs, and school-wide technology.

In 2009, McCloskey was named the inaugural vice president for mission and identity at Duquesne, during which he developed the Center for the Catholic Intellectual Tradition and played a significant role in the development of the University's strategic emphasis upon Africa and the African diaspora. He also chaired the President's Council for Diversity. He previously served as vice president for university relations from 2002- 2003, overseeing all aspects of university advancement including fundraising, marketing, alumni affairs, and public relations.