DePaul University in Chicago has expressed its joy over the election of Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, marking a historic moment as he becomes the first American pope. The newly elected 267th Bishop of Rome is a native of Chicago and has familial ties to DePaul University. His parents, Mildred Martínez Prevost and Louis M. Prevost, were both alumni of the institution, with his mother earning degrees in library science and education and his father obtaining a master's degree in education.

DePaul President Robert L. Manuel stated, "As a Catholic, Vincentian university, DePaul joins the world in celebrating Pope Leo XIV, and we share his call to build bridges and dialogue. He has also shown great care and concern for the society’s poor and marginalized, which aligns with our shared values." Manuel highlighted this event as an exciting moment for Catholics in both the United States and Chicago.

Pope Leo XIV's academic background includes theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago, an affiliate of DePaul University.

For further insights on Pope Leo XIV's election, DePaul University has made available a list of experts who can provide commentary through their Newsroom website.