Michael P. Dowling, S.J.

Michael P. Dowling, S.J., (1851-1915) would twice serve as the University’s president. During his first term, Creighton began offering college coursework, whereas earlier the school was primarily a vehicle for secondary education. At this time, the College continued to place even greater emphasis on scientific knowledge. The development of the scientific department was aided greatly by the construction of the Creighton Observatory (1885-87), which was made possible by donations from John A. Creighton and John A. McShane.

Ecclesiastical life at Creighton College and in Omaha was advanced by the construction of St. John’s Collegiate Chapel (now St. John’s Church). The cornerstone was laid with great fanfare on June 26, 1887, with an estimated 4,000 people in attendance. Although finances prevented completion of the architect’s original design, a smaller version of the church was dedicated in May 1888.

Fr. Dowling’s first term at Creighton ended in 1889, when he left to serve as president of Detroit College (now University of Detroit Mercy). He returned as Creighton’s president in 1898.