Join Other Supporters in Securing Duquesne’s Future
The Father McAnulty Society recognizes alumni and friends who have included a gift for Duquesne University in their estate plans. Each benefactor, in a personal and distinctive way, leaves an inheritance as enduring and impactful as that of Duquesne’s ninth president, the Rev. Henry McAnulty, C.S.Sp, A’36.
“Father Mac” traveled a nontraditional path to the University’s presidency, serving as an Air Force chaplain before being summoned back to the Bluff in 1959, but he quickly recognized the changing role of the academic chief executive. His vision and personality were perfectly suited to turbulent times.
He built new relationships with business and industrial leaders, elevating fundraising to unprecedented levels. He led the transformation of the Bluff from a neighborhood to a campus; during his 22 years at the helm, modern academic buildings, residence halls and a student union rose where blighted rowhouses once stood. Popular enough to be asked to run for Mayor of Pittsburgh (he politely declined), he was an influential figure with local and state officials, advocating on behalf of private universities and spearheading the creation of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.
Most of all, “Father Mac” was beloved as a charismatic, authentic and open-minded leader by Duquesne students. In an era when many colleges were wracked with protests and social upheaval, he inspired and supported a student-led fundraising campaign that saved the University from bankruptcy in 1970.
Father McAnulty’s legacy echoes today in Duquesne’s very existence, in many of our surroundings, and in the relentless pursuit of bigger goals in service to our mission—serving God by serving students.
Membership in the Father McAnulty Society not only honors a treasured Spiritan and president; it also recognizes your enduring and meaningful philanthropy. If you have already provided for Duquesne in your estate plans, or are considering a planned gift to the University, please contact us today.