Duquesne Names Runion Sr. VP of Civic Engagement and External Relations

Runion, who has served as a guest lecturer and is currently pursuing his doctoral degree in healthcare ethics at Duquesne, will succeed Bill Generett, who was recently named head of the Pittsburgh Foundation.

As the leader of the East Liberty center, Runion led a strategic turnaround of the $20 million Federally Qualified Heath Center, increasing the number of patients served while stabilizing operations and finances. He built strategic partnerships with government leaders, foundations, donors and the community while overseeing all aspects of the organization, which serves more than 10,000 patients annually.

"Arsenial brings the rare combination of visionary leadership, operational excellence and deep community engagement that aligns perfectly with our mission," said Duquesne President David J. Dausey. "Throughout his career, he demonstrated an exceptional ability to build meaningful partnerships, lead complex organizations through growth and transformation, and advance mission-driven initiatives that create lasting impact. His collaborative leadership style and commitment to service make him a tremendous asset to both the University and the broader Pittsburgh community."

An expert in health care administration, Runion previously worked as the director of patient experience and operations at Swope Health in Kansas City, Missouri, where he oversaw community outreach and enrollment for a multi-site health network. He has also held positions consulting hospital and health care leaders on financial sustainability.

"Arsenial's experience and commitment to advancing community health have distinguished him as a respected leader in the field," said Diane Hupp, chair of Duquesne’s Board of Directors. “As Duquesne’s position as a health care education leader continues to grow, he will bring a unique perspective that bridges academic, clinical and community settings and strengthens our efforts to address community needs."

In August, the University broke ground on a new Health Sciences Facility on Forbes Avenue, which will be located across from Duquesne’s Nasuti College of Osteopathic Medicine. 

"I am honored to join Duquesne at such an exciting time. The University's history of service to the community aligns deeply with both my personal values and professional experience,” Runion said. “I look forward to working alongside the University's students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and community partners to foster meaningful relationships and advance Duquesne's mission of serving the common good.”

Alongside his professional work, Runion also serves as a board member for the Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division and holds memberships in the National Association of Community Health Centers, the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society.

In addition to pursuing his doctorate in healthcare ethics at Duquesne, Runion earned his master’s degree in healthcare administration from Park University in Parkville, Missouri, and a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from the University of Phoenix.

Duquesne University

Founded in 1878, Duquesne is consistently ranked among the nation's top Catholic universities for its award-winning faculty and horizon-expanding education. A campus of more than 8,200 graduate and undergraduate students, Duquesne prepares students by having them work alongside faculty to discover and reach their goals. The University's academic programs, community service and commitment to equity and opportunity in the Pittsburgh region have earned national acclaim.

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