Loras College celebrated the inauguration of its 27th president, Michael H. Doyle, J.D. (’91) on Friday, Oct. 24. Faculty, students, alumni and community members gathered to honor President Doyle’s leadership and vision for the College’s next chapter.
In his inaugural address, Doyle reflected on Loras’ deep-rooted history and reaffirmed the College’s enduring mission to educate the whole person: mind, body, and spirit for purposeful lives and successful careers. He shared his commitment to strengthening the Loras’ Catholic identity, expanding academic programs, and deepening Loras’s impact throughout the region and beyond.
Loras College also announced it has surpassed the halfway point in their Rooted In Legacy, Rising Together $20 million fundraising initiative designed to enhance student scholarships and academic programming. Launched earlier this year, this initiative aims to expand access to a Loras education, support faculty excellence, and invest in learning opportunities that prepare students to lead and serve in a changing world.
The successful first phase of the Rooted in Legacy, Rising Together initiative was made possible from two $5 million dollar gifts: one from J. Paul (’60) and Frances Breitbach, and another from an anonymous donor. President Doyle shared how grateful and transformative these gifts are to push this initiative forward.
“Loras College’s strength lies in the spirit of its community. The students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters will continue to propel the College forward in a pivotal time in history. Loras will raise $20 million by May 2026 to face these challenges strategically and compassionately ensuring success for generations of Duhawks to come.”
To be a part of this historic initiative and support Loras College, please contact the Institutional Advancement Office at alumni@loras.edu 563.588.7987. For more information, please visit loras.edu/rising-together.
About Loras College
Founded in 1839, Loras College leverages its historic roots as Iowa’s first college, and one of the nation’s 10 diocesan colleges to deliver challenging, life-changing experiences as part of its residential, Catholic setting. According to Niche 2026, Loras was the highest-ranked Catholic college in the state of Iowa along with having the best Student Life in the state as well. U.S. News & World report placed Loras as the 8th Best Regional College in the Midwest. The College was also listed as one of the Top 500 Colleges in America by Forbes Magazine. For the 16th consecutive year, Loras Media Studies student-led television station (LCTV) was named the TV Station of the Year by the Iowa College Media Association (ICMA).
Media Contact
Lexi L. Schroeder
Media & Content Manager
lexi.schroeder@loras.edu
