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Office of Strategic Initiatives

Where Vision Meets Action

The Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI) embodies Mercyhurst University’s commitment to purposeful innovation and forward-looking collaboration. Guided by the university’s mission and values, OSI champions ideas that expand access to education, strengthen community partnerships, and foster regional growth. The office serves as a bridge between vision and execution—identifying emerging opportunities, aligning them with institutional priorities, and transforming creative concepts into initiatives that deliver measurable impact for students, faculty, and the broader community.

About the Office

Reporting directly to the Office of the President, the Office of Strategic Initiatives oversees a portfolio of mission-driven programs and partnerships that reflect Mercyhurst’s commitment to innovation, applied learning, and civic engagement.

The vice president for strategic initiatives serves as the university’s chief innovation officer, working with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to:

  • Develop and support new academic and workforce programs;
  • Coordinate cross-campus strategic projects;
  • Pursue grants and external funding aligned with university priorities; and
  • Build collaborations with business, government, and nonprofit partners.

Through these efforts, OSI helps position Mercyhurst as a leader in regional economic development, public service, and innovation.

Divisions and Initiatives

The Office of Strategic Initiatives provides leadership and coordination for a set of specialized centers and programs that advance Mercyhurst’s mission in civic engagement, intelligence and analysis, public safety, and innovation.

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  • Center for Intelligence, Research, Analysis, and Training (CIRAT)

    The Center for Intelligence Research, Analysis, and Training (CIRAT) advances applied intelligence education and professional development through research, analytic support, and workforce training programs. CIRAT partners with government, industry, and nonprofit organizations to deliver cutting-edge analytic capabilities and data-driven insights, while providing students with hands-on experience in intelligence, security, and strategic analysis.

    Contact/Leadership: Executive Director, Brain A. Fuller; bfuller@mercyhurst.edu; 814-824-5650

    CIRAT
  • Thomas J. Gamble Civic Institute

    The Thomas J. Gamble Civic Institute promotes civic engagement and social responsibility through community-based research, education, and service initiatives. Working closely with public agencies, nonprofits, and community partners, the Civic Institute provides evidence-based analysis and program evaluation that inform public policy and improve outcomes for children, families, and communities across Northwestern Pennsylvania.

    Contact/Leadership: Director, Amy Eisert; aeisert@mercyhurst.edu; 814-824-2551

    Mercyhurst University Gates
  • Municipal Police Academy

    Mercyhurst University’s Municipal Police Academy prepares the next generation of law enforcement professionals through rigorous, hands-on training in policing, ethics, and community service. The full-time, intensive program satisfies the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) requirements for entry-level municipal police officers and emphasizes both technical proficiency and community-oriented policing.

    Contact/Leadership: Program Director, Bill Hale; whale@mercyhurst.edu; 814-824-2782

    Municipal Police Academy
  • Innovation Entente Lab (IEL)

    The Innovation Entente Lab (IEL) is Mercyhurst’s cross-disciplinary hub for competitive business intelligence and innovation support. As part of the Northwest Pennsylvania Innovation Beehive Network, the IEL provides entrepreneurs and small businesses with market analysis, data-driven insights, and strategic intelligence to better understand their industry and competitive landscape. Students working in the lab apply classroom learning to real client projects, gaining practical experience in research, data analytics, and consulting.

    Contact/Leadership: Nimalan Paul, npaul@mercyhurst.edu, 814-824-3363

    Innovation Entente Lab