Father James J. Maher, C.M. is the 26th president of Niagara University, a role he has held since 2013. A member of the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentian Fathers), Father Maher has dedicated his career to fostering academic excellence and advancing the mission of Catholic higher education. Under his leadership, Niagara University has seen significant growth in academic programs, campus facilities, and community outreach. Father Maher is deeply committed to the values of the university’s Vincentian heritage, emphasizing service, social justice, and a transformative educational experience for all students. Prior to becoming president, he held various leadership roles within the university and within the Vincentian community, making him a respected figure both at Niagara University and in the broader educational and religious communities. Father Maher’s vision for Niagara University continues to strengthen its reputation as a center for academic rigor, community engagement, and faith-based learning.
Curriculum Vitae for Rev. James J. Maher, C.M.
Educational Background
- 2004 – D.Min. (Doctor of Ministry), Immaculate Conception Seminary and Graduate School of Theology
- 1990 – Th.M. (Master of Theology), Mary Immaculate Seminary, Northampton, Pa.
- 1989 – M. Div. (Master of Divinity), Mary Immaculate Seminary, Northampton, Pa.
- 1984 – B.A. (Sociology), St. John’s University, Queens, N.Y.
Relevant Work Experience
- 2013 – President, Niagara University
- 2010 – Present Provincial Consulter, Eastern Province, Congregation of the Mission
- 2011 – 2013 Executive Vice President for Mission and Student Services, St. John’s University
- 2009 – 2010 Executive Director of the Vincentian Institute for Social Action, St. John’s University
- 2004 – 2010 Vice President for Student Affairs, St. John’s University
- 1999 – 2005 Vice President for University Ministry, St. John’s University
- 1994 – 1999 Campus Minister, St. John’s University
Professional Associations
- DePaul University: Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, Athletics Committee, Academic and Student Affairs Committee (chair)
- Niagara University: Board of Trustees
- Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities: Board of Directors, Nominating Committee
- Buffalo Niagara Partnership: Board of Directors, Executive Committee
- Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities: Advocacy Work Group
- Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference: President
Honors and Awards
- Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Nancy Gara Spirit Award, 2024
- National Federation for Just Communities of Western New York Citation Award, 2020
- Leadership Niagara Leader of the Year Award, 2019
- Key to the City of Vaughan, Ontario, 2019
- Heart, Love and Soul Frances Ficorilli Volunteer Award, 2016
- Buffalo Business First Power 250, 2013-2024
- Pietas Medal, St. John’s University, 2009
- Outstanding Leader in Education, Madison Who’s Who, 2008
- Student Affairs’ Outstanding Administrator Achievement Award, St. John’s University Student Government Inc., 2005
- Inducted into Epsilon Kappa, Sigma Delta Phi (National Hispanic Honor Society), 2005
- Named one of Top 100 Irish-Americans in U.S., Irish America Magazine, 2004
- Outstanding Service Award, Outreach Project (New York), 2004
- Cross and Anchor Award, Holy Cross High School (New York), 2001
- President’s Medal, St. John’s University, 1998
- Named one of Outstanding Young Men of America, 1998
- New Yorker of the Week, Time Warner, New York One, 1995