STEUBENVILLE, OHIO—Franciscan University of Steubenville today announced Robert Dougherty as its new vice president of Finance. He begins work on March 10.

Dougherty has over 36 years of managerial experience in profit and not-for-profit entities including human services, manufacturing, telecom, and banking.

Most recently, he served as the chief financial officer for Passavant Memorial Homes Family of Services in Warrendale, Pennsylvania, from 2014-2021, where he oversaw all company financial operations for businesses providing services to the intellectually disabled.

From 2008 to 2014, he was vice president of PNC Financial Services in Pittsburgh where he managed a corporate portfolio that totaled approximately $2 billion.

Franciscan University Vice President of Operations Brenan Pergi said Dougherty brings both a wealth of financial experience and a passion for the University’s mission to his role.

“Rob is an excellent fit for the vice president of Finance role at Franciscan University. His extensive executive leadership experience will be a tremendous asset, and I am confident he will help Franciscan University achieve its strategic vision to rebuild the Church,” Pergi added.

In assuming the stewardship of Franciscan’s financial resources, Dougherty said, “Two of my four children have graduated from Franciscan, and I have seen firsthand the mission of the University. The focus on being passionately Catholic and looking to evangelize daily resonates deeply with me. Since the first time I was on campus with my daughter in 2010, it has been a dream of mine to assist Franciscan, and I am excited to serve in this capacity.”

Dougherty holds a bachelor’s in political science and an MBA from Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania.  He served as head of the pastoral council and is active in various ministries at St. Aidan Parish in Wexford, Pennsylvania.