The Walter and Mary Tuohy Chair of Interreligious Studies was founded by Mr. Walter Tuohy, vice chairman and chief executive of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad. He was a dedicated Catholic layman, and active member of the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and a zealous promoter of religious understanding.

Under the auspices of the Tuohy Chair, the university offers a series of courses and free public lectures on interreligious topics. This program is designed to bring scholars of major religious traditions to the university campus for dialogue with students, faculty, religious leaders, and the general public.

John Carroll University is pleased to welcome Rev. George M. Smiga, Pastor, St. Noel Catholic Church, Cleveland, Ohio as the 2009 - 2010 holder of The Walter & Mary Tuohy Chair of Interreligious Studies.