Mercyhurst is a four-year Catholic liberal arts university founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy of the Erie Catholic Diocese. The University traces its heritage to Mother Catherine McAuley, who founded the Sisters of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland.

Under the leadership of Vice President for Advancement and External Relations Sam McCrimmon, who joined the team in 2022, the University is expanding the Advancement team in preparation for the upcoming centennial and concurrent campaign in 2026.