Power Center Ballroom Being Named to Honor President Emeritus

Retiring President Charles J. Dougherty received two surprises at the recent Duquesne University Board of Directors meeting—the bestowing of his new title of president emeritus and the news that the Power Center Ballroom would be renamed in his honor.

The president emeritus title, which was approved by the board and the members of the Duquesne University Corporation, has never been granted before in University history.

“I was really quite honored by it,” said Dougherty.

According to Board Chairperson Marie Milie Jones, the new title represents the board and corporation’s gratitude for Dougherty’s work at Duquesne.

“The Board of Directors wanted to formally acknowledge Charlie’s outstanding performance during his tenure and felt naming him president emeritus, a title not used before at Duquesne, would be appropriate honor,” explained Jones. “The title signifies an ongoing connection to the University and is intended to show appreciation for exceptional service.”

Dougherty said he was further surprised when it was announced—via a plaque unveiling—that the Power Center Ballroom has been renamed the Charles J. Dougherty Ballroom.

“Charlie’s years as president were among the most highly decorated in the University’s history, through academic achievement, financial stability and success, beautification of the facilities and dedication to the mission,” said Jones. “Given that Charlie was instrumental in many improvements to campus, with the Power Center being central among them, the board thought the dedication of the showcase ballroom in that building was fitting.”

Dougherty said he was pleased and flattered. “I can look around campus at things and say, ‘that changed because of a decision in which I was involved,’” said Dougherty. “Now I can look over at one of the most used and loved places on campus and say, ‘I helped build the Power Center and now the favorite room that everybody uses will have my name on it.”