News Story

June 06, 2025

La Roche University Appoints Dr. Paul D. Spradley as Inaugural Executive Director of the Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion

PITTSBURGH, June 6, 2025 – La Roche University is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul D. Spradley, Ed.D. as the inaugural Executive Director of the Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion. Dr. Spradley, a respected leader in diversity, equity, and social justice advocacy, brings more than 15 years of experience in higher education, corporate leadership, and community engagement to this newly established role.

The Ketteler Center, established in partnership with the Congregation of the Sisters of Divine Providence, reflects La Roche’s foundational commitment to Catholic Social Teaching and its mission to “co-create a world of compassion, justice, and peace.” As Executive Director, Dr. Spradley will lead the Center’s efforts to promote dialogue, service, and systemic change on issues such as poverty, human rights, environmental justice, and inclusion.

“La Roche University’s mission is rooted in a vision of justice and the dignity of every person,” said University President Christina Clark, Ph.D. “Dr. Spradley’s deep personal commitment to these principles, his experience in transformational leadership, and his ability to bring people together across communities make him the ideal leader to bring the Ketteler Center’s vision to life.”

Prior to joining La Roche, Dr. Spradley served as Vice President of Human Resources at Dollar Bank, where he led organization-wide cultural assessments, developed inclusive leadership programs, and expanded diversity recruitment and retention strategies. In higher education, he held leadership positions at Robert Morris University and Siena Heights University, where he established multicultural student groups and programming, increased student retention, and helped support thriving inclusive campuses.

Dr. Spradley earned an Ed.D. in Education from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership, and a B.S. in Communications from Robert Morris University. An ordained elder and trained restorative justice facilitator, he has led interfaith dialogues, spoken at major public demonstrations for racial justice, and delivered inclusive leadership workshops nationwide.

“My life’s work converges at the intersection of faith, justice, and inclusion,” Dr. Spradley said. “It is an honor to join La Roche University and the Sisters of Divine Providence in continuing to serve the campus, region, and beyond as agents of peace and human dignity, rooted in strong faith-based values.”

Dr. Spradley will begin his new role on July 1, 2025.

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.