F OR RELEASE: 6-12-25
GREAT FALLS, MONTANA – Father Oliver Doyle, the 10th president of the University of Providence, has announced plans to step down from his position at the end of June, completing nearly six years of leadership.
“Father Doyle leaves an indelible mark on the University community. His focus was always on our students and how to best prepare them for a life’s journey with a values based education that would help them achieve their goals in work and in life,” said Terry Cosgrove, UP Board of Trustees Chair. “We cannot thank him enough for all that he’s done for the school.”
“Leaving this ministry was never going to be easy. It never is, when you love the people and the place and the life they bring to you,” said Father Doyle. “It has never been about me, but about those I am called to serve and of course, the Lord.”
Fr. Doyle is well known in Great Falls and North Central Montana. He previously served as the University’s Vice President for Mission Integration for three years and as the pastor of St. Ann’s Cathedral in Great Falls for over 20 years. Under Fr. Doyle’s leadership, the University of Providence navigated tremendous challenges and transitions, including a global pandemic. He also guided the University through various initiatives, such as the development of a five-year strategic plan, creation of on-campus nursing program, and the nurturing of key relationships with partners such as Providence Health System, Benefis Health System, Touro University and others.
During his presidency, he steadied the university by securing support from a variety of different stakeholders. Fr. Doyle guided the University of Providence to remain committed to its Catholic mission and in-person instruction and formation, while embracing the educational philosophy of the Sisters of Providence which is rooted in agility, adaptability, and serving the under-served.
The University of Providence Board of Trustees has begun planning for the leadership transition, including the appointment of an interim president and the launch of a national search for the University’s next leader. Details of the process will be shared in the coming weeks.
