Ave Maria University

A V e M A r I A
NOV - DEC 2008
VOL 6, ISSUE 3
FOUNDER
Spiritual Battle • Beginning the Academic Year • Founders Wall • Institute for Pastoral Theology
World Youth Day 2008 • New Students Arrive • Volunteers • Visiting Ave Maria • Life at Ave Maria
Photo By Casey truelove

Become a Founder
Catherine Dailey
239.348.4711
catherine.dailey@avemaria.edu
Donate
Dr. Carole Carpenter
239.280.2572
ccarpenter@avemaria.edu
Managing Editor
Deacon Forrest Wallace
Photography
AMU Staff
November - December 2008 FOUNDER
5050 Ave Maria Boulevard
Ave Maria, FL 34142-9505
239.280.2572
C2
www.avemaria.edu
IN THIS ISSUE
President’s Message 1
The Spiritual Battle for Our Students
Where Faith Informs Life 2
exciting Beginnings for 2008-2009
Gratitude for your Sacrifices 4
Dedicatory Founders Wall Installed
Academics 5
Institute for Pastoral Theology:
A Path to Holiness
Alumni 6
World Youth Day 2008
Student Life 8
New and Busy Beginnings
Volunteers 9
Making the Difference for
Our Lord and Our Lady
Latin American Campus 10
Successfully Geared Up
Founded on Faith 12
Your Day at Ave Maria
Alumni in Faith 13
From Ave Maria, With Love
Ave Maria University publishes Ave Maria Founder magazine quarterly as a service to its Founders.
Board of Trustees
PATRICIA D. DOLAN
JOHN F. DONAHUE, VICE CHAIRMAN
EDWARD W. EASTON
MARk FOLLETT
RICHARD M. GABRyS
REV. BENEDICT J. GROESCHEL, C.F.R.
NICHOLAS J. HEALy, JR.
Board of Regents
GERALD D. BRENNAN, JR.
JOHN H. CAREW
DENISE L. COBB
WILLIAM M. COUSINS, JR.
MAJOR GENERAL J.T. COyNE
MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM
PATRICIA A. DANIEL
MARy L. DEMETREE
LOUIS R. DEPRISCO
DR. CANDACE DERUSSy, CO-CHAIR
JOHN J. DIIULIO, JR.
CHARLES R. FAUST
CARLOS A. FIGUEROA
Ecclesial Advisors
CHRISTOPH CARDINAL SCHÖNBORN
JAMES FRANCIS CARDINAL STAFFORD
MOST REVEREND JOHN J. NEVINS, D.D.
PAUL M. HENkELS, CHAIRMAN
MSGR. LAURENCE E. HIGGINS
JAMES HOLMAN
VICTOR J. MELFA
THOMAS S. MONAGHAN
MICHAEL NOVAk
REV. MITCHELL PACWA
DON J. GUNTHER, CO-CHAIR
ELMER F. HANSEN
DONALD I. HOLTON
JOHN H. kEATING
GARRETT kELLEHER
kENNETH P. kLEINRICHERT
COLLEEN M. kVETkO
MOTHER ASSUMPTA LONG
DR. THOMAS M. LOOME
GEORGE H. MALEy
WILLIAM MAUS, JR.
WILLIAM D. MCINTyRE
PEGGy A. MEyER
© 2008 Ave Maria University. All Rights Reserved.
FRANCIS CARDINAL ARINZE
GEORGE CARDINAL PELL
MARC CARDINAL OUELLET
PAUL RONEy
DR. kEVIN RyAN
MICHAEL D. SOíGNET
GLORy L. SULLIVAN
MICHAEL TIMMIS, JR.
DARIUS F. MOSUN
REV. R. JOHN NEUHAUS
FRED PEZESHkAN
DR. URSULA M. PFAHL
CRISTINA POO
THOMAS P. PRINCE
STEPHEN RAy
ANTONIO C. REA
ALAN D. REyNOLDS
GEORGE P. SCHWARTZ
JOSEPH F. SHAUGHNESSy
FRANk D. STELLA
MARy L. THUL

Senator Rick Santorum spoke
to students and faculty at Fall
Academic Convocation.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Nicholas J. Healy, Jr.
The Spiritual Battle for Our Students
Former Senator Rick Santorum was the speaker at our Fall
Academic Convocation. Drawing on his years of experience in
Congress, particularly in the efforts to curtail unrestricted abortion,
he reminded our students that they will be engaged in a great
spiritual battle; one that will lead to many defeats and through
which they will need to endure ridicule and unpopularity. Yet, the
Senator made it clear that the persecution awaiting Christians
who seriously practice the Faith is a reason to rejoice. The following
article was written by Clare Guerrero, one of our fine graduates,
for the University’s newspaper, Angelus News.
Senator Rick Santorum opened the 2008-2009 school year by
passionately exhorting students, faculty, staff and friends of Ave
Maria University at the August 29th Academic Convocation to
“be faithful to Christ.”
“For some who have been out there fighting wars, it is
wonderful to see this nucleus of the next generation of
American leaders, ones who are faithful in the pursuit of
the truth,” Santorum told students.
His speech encouraged listeners to never lose hope, especially
in the wake of loss and frustration. Drawing from
personal struggles, losses and triumphs – most notably his
role in banning partial-birth abortion, Santorum shed light
on the spiritual warfare manifested in politics, media and
culture.
Quoting Bishop Samuel Aquila of Fargo, ND, who boldly
stated, “Catholics who support so-called ‘abortion rights’
support a false right, promote a culture of death and are
guarded by the father of lies,” Santorum added, “While we
all see this in a great political conflict between the Obama
campaign, McCain campaign and cultural wars—what
Bishop Aquila put his finger on is that this is not a political
war at all, or a cultural war—it is a spiritual war. And ‘the
father of lies’ has set his sights set on none other than good,
decent, powerful, influential United States of America.”
Santorum pointed out that academic institutions were
the first among those affected by corruption—because of
the temptation for “smart people” to “play with the truth
and create new ones.” The origin of this corruption: pride,
vanity and sensuality.
“Now we are facing the external threats of radical Islam,
another spiritual battle,” Santorum said, “this is in an age
when our Democratic presidential candidate, when asked in
an interview with the Chicago Sun Times, ‘What is sin?’ His
answer: ‘Being out of alignment with my values.’ Now we
have the truly first post-modern presidential candidate…
one who defines his own reality.”
“It all sounds pretty hopeless, doesn’t it?” Santorum
continued, “Why then, when times are so bad, are you all
here at Ave Maria University?” Isn’t that great? Isn’t that
great! It’s because…God has asked you to be here at a time when
he needs you the most!
“My message to you today is that you will lose,” Santorum
said, “You will lose battle after battle; you will become
frustrated; but do not lose hope. God will be faithful, if
you are.”
Santorum also explained that this kind of loss has a victory
in faith. Shortly after losing the vote to overturn partialbirth
abortion, he and his wife lost their fourth child,
Gabriel, who had a fatal defect and died two hours after
birth.
“The stories I could tell you about the lives that Gabriel has
saved are in the hundreds,” Santorum explained, “My wife
Karen kept a diary to Gabriel as a result of the suffering,
which was published and distributed in pregnancy centers
around the country. The hearts of mothers who read Letters
to Gabriel were turned. We lost that vote, we lost our son
– but God spoke to me and through my faithfulness he
reached others. Losing was the best thing that could have
happened.” †
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November - December 2008 FOUNDER

November - December 2008 FOUNDER
WHERE FAITH INFORMS LIFE
Thomas S. Monaghan, Chancellor
2
Last year at this time, we were celebrating the
opening of the new campus. That is a pretty tough
act to follow a year later, but the beginning of this
academic year has definitely been filled with a lot
of excitement. There was much momentum as we
began the new year at the end of August. Enrollment
is strong, we have a number of distinguished
new faculty members, we just completed two
construction projects and simultaneously began
another, and we began competition in varsity
athletics!
The activity on the first day of class was at an alltime
high. This is by far the largest student body
we have ever had. We welcomed more than 325
new undergraduate students, giving us more than
600 undergrads studying here at Ave Maria, FL.
We also now have students from all 50 states and
nearly 30 countries. In addition to the excellent
returning faculty, we welcomed seven new faculty
members to our teaching ranks.
In order to meet the housing demands of our
record incoming class, we completed construction
of our fourth dormitory in July, as well as a new
outdoor swimming pool and cabana complex for
student recreation; the pool and cabana complex
will provide a means for relaxation and fun for
students, as they enjoy the Florida sun while not
in class. Simultaneously, we have begun construction
of our fifth dormitory, which we are calling
Exciting Beginnings for 2008-2009
our “mega-dorm” because it will by far be our
largest dorm and house more than 550 students.
This new mega-dorm will allow us to continue to
recruit and accept new students without constantly
having to worry about whether or not we are going
to have room for them and it also enables us to
keep the men’s and women’s dorms separate.
This year also brought another first for AMU, as

MISSION STATEMENT
Founded in fidelity to Christ and His Church in response to the call of Vatican
II for greater lay witness in contemporary society, Ave Maria University exists to
further teaching, research and learning at the undergraduate and graduate levels
in the abiding tradition of Catholic thought in both national and international
settings. The University takes as its mission the sponsorship of a liberal arts
education curriculum dedicated, as articulated in the apostolic constitution,
Ex Corde Ecclesiae, to the advancement of human culture, the promotion of
dialogue between faith and reason, the formation of men and women in the
intellectual and moral virtues of the Catholic faith, and to the development of
professional and pre-professional programs in response to local and societal
needs. As an institution committed to Catholic principles, the University
recognizes the importance of creating and maintaining an environment in which
faith informs the life of the community and takes expression in all its programs.
we began competing in varsity athletics through
membership in the National Association for Intercollegiate
Athletics (NAIA). This year, we will
compete in a total of 6 different sports: men’s and
women’s soccer, men’s and women’s basketball,
women’s volleyball and men’s golf.
Additionally, we are beginning this year as a fully
accredited member of the American Academy for
Liberal Education (AALE). All of these develop-
Center:
Students enjoy the new pool.
Top Right:
Members of the Orientation
Team welcome new students
and help them move in.
PHOTOS BY CASEY TRUELOVE
ments continue to help us as we strive to fulfill
our mission of providing a first-class liberal arts
education in the Catholic moral and intellectual
tradition. As always, I want to personally thank
all of you for your ongoing support and especially
for your prayers.
P.S. You may have noticed something is mssing
from this picture… Pool Side Patio Furniture! For
a donation of as little as $1,000 - $5,000 you can
help us provide our students with patio furniture
for our new pool. If you would like to help, please
contact Carole Carpenter at (239) 280-2572. †
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November - December 2008 FOUNDER

November - December 2008 FOUNDER
4
GRATITUDE FOR yOUR SACRIFICES
Antionette Bosch, Stewardship Coordinator
Dedicatory Founders Wall Installed
Ave Maria Univer-
sity remembered its
“Founders”—those
who give $120 or
more in support of
the University—as
the Founders Wall
was installed in Canizaro Library on campus over the
weekend of Sept 19-21. A total of 18,865 names—
all who donated $120 or more before February 26,
2008—are inscribed on the wall. It consists of fifteen
3' by 6' glass panels bearing donors’ names, plus two
adjacent smaller panels. The first reads:
Founded in fidelity to Christ and His Church, Ave
Maria University exists to promote teaching, research and
learning in the abiding tradition of Catholic thought.
The Founders of Ave Maria University are our “Alumni
in Faith”. These individuals have united their efforts as
co-founders with Mr. Thomas S. Monaghan, our Founder
and Chancellor, in establishing this institution. They have
responded to the call of Pope John Paul II to bring about
“a new springtime of evangelization” in the Church and
the world by supporting Ave Maria University. The names
of these individuals who are our Originating Founders
are listed on this wall as a tribute to their belief in our
mission and their generosity of spirit.
The second panel reads: “You know the great trial that
God sees to send us. You know His great vision that
has captured our hearts.”
Lighting is incorporated into the components
themselves.
The project was initiated to thank donors in a personal
way and publicly recognize their gifts. Thousands have
contributed $120.00 — often in the form of $5 or
$10 per month contributions — to show their support
for higher education in the Catholic tradition and to
share the privileged title of “Founder” with Mr. Tom
Monaghan. Now Founders will also be able to visit the
campus and see their names prominently displayed for
generations to come.
Secure your permanent place at our campus, and
allow us to recognize your contribution, by reserving a
memorial brick with your name or special commemorative
message for $120 or $240. There are a host of
ways—small and large—to honor a special person or
commemorate a special event, while helping to build
Ave Maria’s campus for generations to come. †
Engraved names of donors seem to
float above the ‘mosaic’ of different
sized squares which form the words
“Ave Maria” — Latin for “Hail Mary”.
For more information on commemorative naming
opportunities, please contact Antionette Bosch:
239.280.1646 | antionette.bosch@avemaria.edu

ACADEMICS
Dr. Timothy Herrman, Ph.D, Director of the Institute for Pastoral Theology
Institute for Pastoral Theology: A Path to Holiness
According to its mission statement, Ave Maria
University was founded “in fidelity to Christ and
His Church in response to the call of Vatican II
for greater lay witness in contemporary society…”
It does this by furthering “teaching, research and
learning at the undergraduate and graduate levels in
the abiding tradition of Catholic thought in both
national and international settings.”
With its strong emphasis on Scripture, Vatican II and
John Paul II, the Institute for Pastoral Theology (IPT)
is right at home at AMU. The Institute’s Master of
Theological Studies (MTS) degree program provides
a comprehensive theological education with a view
to facilitating a full, conscious, active and effective
participation in the Church’s life and mission. This
orientation toward taking up the Church’s mission is
what gives this degree program at AMU its pastoral
character.
Pastoral theology is the study of the Church’s participation
in God’s own pastoral love and wisdom. This
is why the program strongly emphasizes spirituality
and the call to holiness. As Pope John Paul II wrote,
“I have no hesitation in saying that all pastoral initiatives
must be set in relation to holiness.” Holiness is
the goal of all the Church’s activity, but in addition,
it is people living a holy life who most effectively
take up the Church’s mission.
As society is increasingly relativistic, and even in
the Church many undervalue the truth of doctrine,
the IPT instructs students in the pastoral relevance
of what God has revealed and the Church teaches.
There is no love worthy of the name that is not based
on the truth. To be faithful to serving man, as Christ
was, it is necessary to be faithful to the Father, as He
was.
The MTS degree program format was developed to
accommodate the “non-traditional” student who
needs to balance graduate studies with family and
job. Classes meet Friday evening through Sunday
afternoon, one weekend per month, August through
May. It is designed to be completed in three years.
“Coming to a location near you” is an apt motto for
the IPT. It currently offers its program at nine sites
around the U.S., always with the support of the local
bishop. The Institute employs four highly qualified
full-time faculty and a team of adjuncts, all of whom
are conspicuously faithful to the Magisterium.
For more information visit the web site, www.ipt.
avemaria.edu or call our office at (866) 866-1100. †
FULL-TIME FACULTy
Douglas Bushman,
S.T.L.
ADJUNCT FACULTy
Mark A. Brumley, M.T.S.
Christopher Baglow, Ph.D.
Sue Ellen M. Canizaro
Sr. Gertrude Gillette,
O.S.B., Ph.D.
Mary Healy, S.T.D.
David Twellman,
D.Min., Th.M.
Lawrence Feingold,
S.T.D., S.T.L.
Arthur M. Hippler, Ph.D.
Rev. Joseph Koterski, S.J., Ph.D.
Stephen M. Matuszak, S.T.L.
Christopher Ruff,
S.T.L., M.A., S.T.B., B.A.
William B. Stevenson, Ph.D.
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November - December 2008 FOUNDER

November - December 2008 FOUNDER
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ALUMNI
Gary Huber, Alumni Liaison
World Youth Day 2008
World Youth Day is the largest youth event in the
world and this year pilgrims gathered in Sydney,
Australia united under one Faith and the spirit of
evangelization. World Youth Day 2008 attracted
223,000 registered pilgrims from 170 nations,
including our determined group of six from Ave
Maria University.
I had the great privilege of spending the better part
of a year fundraising and acting as the staff advisor
MARIA VICTORIA PUERTO
JUNIOr | Class of 2010
for the World Youth Day Club. The student body
was represented by Joel Fernandez, Lina Williams,
Nicky Rutherford, Kathleen Kirsch and Maria
Victoria Puerto. Prayerfully united under the
pope’s message from Acts 18, “‘You will receive
power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you will be my witnesses,” we embarked on a
mission that would prove to test our faith, physical
endurance, and will power. †
kATHLEEN kIRSCH
SOPHOMOre | Class of 2011

JOEL FERNANDEZ
GrADUATe | Class of 2008
To share your alumni story contact
Gary Huber, Alumni Liaison
239.290.2573 | gary.huber@avemaria.edu
LINA WILLIAMS
NICky RUTHERFORD
SOPHOMOre | Class of 2011
JUNIOr | Class of 2010
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November - December 2008 FOUNDER

November - December 2008 FOUNDER
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STUDENT LIFE
Daniel A. Dentino, Vice President for Student Affairs, Dean of Students
New and Busy Beginnings — To The Heights!
This fall marked the largest New Student Orientation
to date, with over 300 enthusiastic new
students arriving on campus to begin the Fall
semester. The students and their families braved
the intermittent rain as they checked into their
dorm rooms, met their roommates and began to
settle into life at Ave Maria University. Upon
their arrival, the new students were greeted by
the members of the Orientation Team, a group
of 40 returning upperclassmen
hand–selected to
welcome the new students
and help in their adjustment
to campus life.
Orientation Weekend was
packed with academic
lectures, presentations,
spiritual and social events,
and even an opportunity
for outreach service to the local community.
To kick off the orientation exercises, President
Nicholas Healy addressed the importance of
Ave Maria University in today’s world. Faculty
and administration encouraged students to fully
engage themselves academically, spiritually and
socially.
The students also had the opportunity to
encounter the diverse and active spiritual life
on campus through the various liturgies and
activities throughout the weekend including a
Holy Hour on Friday night. Students also met
new classmates and returning students at events
such as the Friday night Luau and Pool Party at
the newly–opened pool, and a concert by Chris
Padgett, as well as Karaoke, dancing and games
at the Student Union.
The Office of Mission and Outreach kicked off
the Fall semester with four opportunities for
new students. Nearly 100 of them participated
in work at Habitat for Humanity, Sanders Pines
non-profit housing project and the Immokalee
Friendship House, while several prayed at an
abortion clinic in Fort Myers.
After a weekend packed with social events,
lectures, holy hours and outreach service, students
will be ready to dive in to the primary pursuit of
academic excellence as classes begin. †
For more information on helping to support student
life at AMU please contact Dan Dentino.
239.280.2544 | dan.dentino@avemaria.edu
Top: Maria Patricia Guardiola, AMU Freshman, holds a
new little friend at an outreach activity at Sanders Pines
Bottom: AMU students — Patrick Gordon, Maria
Patricia Guardiola, Leslie McClellan, Makandiwana
Shoniwa (Coordinator), Kathleen Condit and Perla
Garcia — at Sanders Pines

VOLUNTEERS
Peter Wood, Volunteer Coordinator
Making the Difference for Our Lord and Our Lady
It was six years ago when I first read about Ave
Maria University. At the time, I was in the middle
of a teaching and coaching career at a Catholic
high school in Jacksonville, FL. I was instantly
attracted to the idea of a university, town and parish
church all named after Our Lady. I had a desire to
contribute to its growth and development.
When I was hired as the Volunteer Coordinator
and Men’s Golf Coach, Ave Maria suddenly
became a reality for me. As I began to talk with
others who also live and work here, I came to find
we all have a similar story. We have an interest in
serving a vision with the Holy Spirit as its source.
What have I seen in the few months since arriving
at Ave Maria? Sincere and dedicated people who
are motivated by their Catholic faith life. I have
seen people committed to embodying the teachings
of Pope John Paul II. Two of his documents
are even inscribed on the university logo: Veritatis
Splendor (The Splendor of Truth) and Ex Corde
Ecclesiae (From the Heart of The Church). It’s a
“spiritual superstructure” for all that is done at Ave
Maria University.
Professors and students lead the way in the adventurous
discovery of the Truth. University administration
and staff are the fuel — keeping the vision,
programs and services running and effective.
Founders accompany Tom Monaghan in support
of the University’s many needs and endeavors. And
volunteers donate themselves — their time and
talent — in many little and large activities so that
the good work begun and ongoing at Ave Maria
University can be brought to completion.
Opportunities abound for service as a volunteer.
A lot of help is needed for large events like our
Sixth Annual Golf Classic and the “Pizza & Art”
Auction and Sale. Both of these events raise money
for scholarships.
University personnel rely on volunteers for a
variety of projects, services, and special needs
in their respective departments. Activities like
mentoring young people, coaching, serving at
banquets, assisting at conferences, making phone
calls, library and secretarial work, mail preparations,
hospitality, photography and countless other
endeavors, all require the presence and skills of
the volunteer. There is even a request to write the
history of AMU.
I like to bring our volunteers together for a
monthly or quarterly gathering — usually on a
Sunday — for Mass at the Oratory, refreshments
and discussion.
I hope to add to the great things already accomplished
in the volunteer office. But, it is the volunteers,
the many women and men actively involved,
who make the difference for Our Lord and Our
Lady here at Ave Maria University.
This is a little about me. I would like to know
more about you. It is easy to become a volunteer.
Just click on “Volunteers” at www.avemaria.edu or
call me at (239) 304-7072. †
For more information on volunteering your services
to AMU please contact Peter Wood:
239.304.7072 | peter.wood@avemaria.edu
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November - December 2008 FOUNDER

November - December 2008 FOUNDER
10
LATIN AMERICAN CAMPUS
Mary Helen Espinosa, Executive Director of External Affairs, AMULAC
Successfully Geared Up for 2008-2009
The 2008-2009 academic year for Ave Maria’s
Latin American campus got off to an ambitious
start for its ninth year in operation. A week of
Institutional Workshops for staff and faculty
began on Monday, August 18th, under the theme
“Building Community.” The new provost, Mr.
Harvey Leach, gave an inspirational “State of the
University” address which affirmed the campus’
positive path.
The week’s end was actually only the beginning
— so began the exciting inflow of about 90 new
students along with returning students! Once
again, the theme of building community was
emphasized. Emblazoned on the t-shirts of the
30 orientation counselors was the affirmation:
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit
comes upon you;
and you will be my
witnesses.” (Acts 18)
The welcome of new
members to the Ave
Maria community
began with a Mass
and was followed by
such fun activities
as a barbecue for
students and their
families, a volcano
hike, a trip to a scenic
crater-overlook and
an ice cream social.
Prior to the start of
classes on August
27th, new students
were occupied with
requisite testing for
Math and English
placement, touring
campus facilities and services, academic counseling
to help in their selection of courses, and
finally, their registration for Fall semester classes.
Incoming freshman, Juanita Reyes from El
Salvador, said, “Being at Ave Maria has been

a good experience so far… I feel
comfortable, especially because I am
closer to God.” Fellow classmate,
Alejandra Gomez from Miami, also
expressed her enthusiasm during
the first week of classes, saying “Ave
Maria is a wonderful experience
because you find good friends and
you share different things of life.”
For information on how you can
support a student at Ave Maria’s
Nicaragua Campus, please contact:
Dr. Carole Carpenter
239.280.2572
ccarpenter@avemaria.edu
Top:
Incoming freshmen form the AMULAC Class
of 2012.
Opposite:
Orientation Counselors serve as waiters
during the special Coffee House event.
Bottom:
Faculty and staff members create unique
centerpieces as a team-building acivity
during an Institutional Workshop.
11
November - December 2008 FOUNDER

yOUR DAy AT AVE MARIA
November - December 2008 FOUNDER
WHEN yOU ARRIVE
STOP IN THE VISITOR’S CENTER
Get your warm ave Maria welcome. you’ll
receive information on ave Maria university
and a Walking tour Guidebook. tours
are offered at 11 am and 2 pm each day.
extended tours can be scheduled in
advance for any size group.
BIkE RENTALS Island Bike shop offers
some great ways to get around in ave
Maria and enjoy the Florida weather.
ANyTIME, ALL DAy
PERSONAL PRAyER IN THE ORATORy
allow the stunning combination of modern
and traditional design prepare your mind
and heart for prayer. Jesus is truly present
here! We respectfully ask our guests to
remain quiet and reverent. Thank you!
SHOPPING Whether you’re browsing for
souvenirs or finding just the right gift, you’ll
see the spirit of this town inside each
unique shop.
VISIT CANIZARO LIBRARy Cozy up with
a book or take some time to see the
amazing Frank lloyd Wright models and
other art on display.
MORNING
BREAkFAST at the Bean of ave Maria
and the cafeteria in the student union.
11:00 AM SHORT TOUR Meet us at the
visitors Center! In about 20 minutes, one
of our friendly staff, students or volunteers
will share everything you need to know to
take a tour of the campus and town.
AFTERNOON
12:00 PM HOLy MASS the center of our
day here at ave Maria university is the
holy sacrifice of the Mass. Jesus welcomes
you and so do we!
LUNCH available at the Bean of ave
Maria, tropical smoothie Cafe, the Gyrene
Cafe and the cafeteria in the student
union.
2:00 PM SHORT TOUR Meet us at the
visitors Center! In about 20 minutes, one
of our friendly staff, students or volunteers
will share everything you need to know to
take a tour of the campus and town.
12
She was 90 years old and it was her
birthday. She had lost her husband many
years ago. When her daughters called
to see what she wanted to do on her
birthday, she only had one wish—to visit
Ave Maria University and attend Mass in
the Oratory. She came in with a walker
but she was so happy and thankful to her
daughters for bringing her that her feet
barely touched the ground. She stated,
“In this place, I feel very close to God.”
Many of our visitors express the joy of
seeing the university, touring the grounds,
visiting with students and faculty and
attending Mass in the Oratory. They
describe their experiences in many ways,
but most frequently express the peace
they find during their visit.
I want to invite you to visit us and enjoy
a day at Ave Maria. Our Visitor’s Center
can help you plan your day. It is called
the St. John Vianney Visitors Center,
named by a donor who wanted St. John
Vianney to be honored at Ave Maria.
St. Jean-Baptiste Marie Vianney was born
in Lyons, France. When he was five years
old, the Reign of Terror raged in Paris,
killing many priests and religious; out of
fear, John’s devout Catholic parents did
not send him to school. John wanted
to be ordained a priest, but struggled in
his preliminary and seminary studies,
especially in the study of Latin.
Founded on Faith,
Inspired by Hope…
Dr. Carole Carpenter, Vice President for University Relations
After many struggles in school and a
brief hiatus as a conscripted soldier, John
was finally ordained and established in
the humble position of parish priest
in the small village of Ars, near Lyons,
France. He prayed much, led a poor and
strict life and evangelized his parish. He
became renowned for his holiness and
profitable spiritual direction. For 42 years
he labored to serve the many pilgrims
who traveled to Ars for his guidance as
confessor and director—pilgrims who
sometimes numbered twenty thousand
in a year. He died peacefully at age 74
and is the patron saint of parish priests.
His feast is celebrated on August 4th.
We hope to be a place where many people
visit and are welcomed to share in a very
special multi-generational community
that offers many opportunities to live,
learn, grow, and volunteer.
Ave Maria University will be completed
with the prayers, donations and
participation of many. We invite you to
consider a role. The side bar outlines a
day at Ave Maria. We hope you will visit
with us. It is a great place to bring your
seasonal guests or to just get away for the
day. Only 25 miles outside of Naples, it’s
an easy trip. I assure you, you will find
joy and peace in your visit. If you get
to the third floor of the Library, I would
love to meet you! †
…Completed with Charity.
For questions about giving or planning your next visit to Ave Maria University,
please contact Dr. Carole Carpenter. ccarpenter@avemaria.edu | 239.280.2572

ALUMNI IN FAITH
Catherine Dailey, Director of National Founders
From Ave Maria, With Love
Peggy and Scott Stinnet recently moved to Ave
Maria, FL. How did they get here? “It was God’s
Will,” Peggy stated, and they are still reeling from
the series of events that brought them here.
“I was looking for a base,” Scott explained. As a
commercial pilot for American Airlines he was
looking for a major airport from which to fly.
Suddenly, a transfer came through, and Scott was
based in Miami, “I watched Ave Maria grow from
the air from early 2006-2007, first seeing piles of
dirt, then they formed into roads and buildings
began to appear.” Encouraged by friends Ken and
Pat Kleinrichert, at a Founders Club dinner in
Traverse City, MI, they considered moving to Ave
Maria. They knew Mr. Monaghan, a former resident
of Traverse City, to be a dynamic and persistent
man. “We knew he was true to his word and would
accomplish what he set out to do.”
Meanwhile, Peggy considered what life might be
like separated from her three children and the rest
of the family if she and Scott moved to Ave Maria.
“It was as if God was showing us a perfect plan.
“We knew we had to move from Traverse City but
there were obstacles: selling the house, leaving the
family and Scott’s job.” Finally the decision to move
to Ave Maria became clear—where else but on an
airplane? They were traveling to a family reunion,
the discussion of whether or not to move had
become tense. Peggy opened a book and a prayer
card fell on her lap. With all her heart, she prayed
a prayer to Our Lady of Good Remedy which she
had never prayed before.
By the time the plane had landed, the main obstacle
had been removed. Their eldest son had left a voicemail
on their cell phone saying he and his family
would be moving away from Traverse City. “We
immediately decided to sell the house. It sold in
two months time, in a bad market and we got our
asking price.”
Peggy and Scott are now active in daily life at Ave
Maria. They are kept busy between frequent family
visits, daily Mass, evening Rosary and volunteering
at the National Founders Office. Peggy summed it
up by saying, “It is Mr. Monaghan’s goal to bring
many souls to heaven and Ave Maria is giving us an
opportunity to be one of them.”
To learn more about living and learning at Ave Maria
contact Catherine Dailey, Director of National Founders.
catherine.dailey@avemaria.edu | 239.280.4711
13
November - December 2008 FOUNDER

FOUNDERS CLUB EVENTS EVENTS AT AVE MARIA
Naples Founders Club Dinner
Tuesday, Nov. 11, 5:30 - 8:00 pm
Fr. Robert J. Kantor: The Chaplain as an
Instrument of Christ in Wartime
Naples Hilton, $30
Fort Myers Founders Club
Tuesday, Nov. 11, 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Pizza & Art Sale and Auction
Marco Island Founders Luncheon
Friday, Nov. 14, 11:30 a.m.
The Servant Sisters of the Home of the
Mother: “A Call to Holiness”
The Marco Island Yacht Club, $25
Ann Arbor Founders Club Dinner
Tuesday, Nov. 18, 6:00 p.m.
Catherine Lanni, Founder of Servants of
Jesus of the Divine Mercy: “How to Trust
in Jesus”
Domino Farms Lobby, $25
Greater Detroit Founders Club
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m.
Catherine Lanni, Founder of Servants of
Jesus of the Divine Mercy: “How to Trust
in Jesus”
Radisson Kingsley Hotel, $30
Immokalee Founders Club
Thursday, Nov. 20, 6:00 pm
Steve Cronin, Ph. D., Assistant Professor
of Biology at AMU: “Studying God’s
Creation at Ave Maria”
Our Lady of Guadalupe, Potluck
Houston Founders Club
Tuesday, Dec. 2, 6: 30 p.m
Lee Bowers, Director of the Office of
Marian Activities for Archdiocese of
Galveston-Houston: “Consecrated to the
Immaculate Conception”
Crowne Plaza Hotel Downtown
Houston, $25
Ave Maria Founders Club
Friday, Dec. 5
Celebration of Lights Reception
Fort Lauderdale Founders Club
Sunday, Dec. 7
Motor Coach Tour & AMU Choir Concert
Naples Founders Club
Tuesday, Dec. 9, 5:30 p.m
Sr. Thomas Aquinas, Dominican Sisters
of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist: “The
Joy of the Incarnation”
Naples Hilton, $40
Ann Arbor and Greater Detroit
Founders Club
Tuesday, Dec. 9
6:00 pm Social, 6:30 Dinner
Fr. Gabriel Richard Honors Choir- The
Madrigals, 20 student choir directed by
Anne K. Magee
Domino’s Farms, Ann Arbor, MI, $25
SPECIAL FEAST DAyS Nov 18 Dedication of the Basilicas
of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
Ave Maria University
5050 Ave Maria Boulevard
Ave Maria, FL 34142-9505
Nov 21 The Presentation
of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Nov 23 Christ the King
Nov 30 First Sunday of Advent
Benefactor Mass
Wednesday, Nov. 12, 12:00 Noon,
Ave Maria Oratory
Shopping Tour: Miromar Outlets
Saturday, November 15
Contact Heather Heinzroth,
Del Webb Activities Director,
(239) 304-0740 or
hheinzeroth@TroonGolf.com
Student Musical “I Do, I Do”
November 15-16
Community Garden Group
Monday, Nov. 17, 9:30 – 11:30am,
Talk by Master Gardener at Collier
County Extension Service
The Bean of Ave Maria
RSVP to monicamdix@yahoo.com
“This Catholic Life” Book Club
Monday, Nov. 17, 6:00 pm,
First Comes Love by Scott Hahn
The Bean of Ave Maria
Ballet Film: La Bayadere, Paris
Opera Ballet
Friday, Nov. 21, 7:00 -10:00 pm,
Auditorium, Academic Building
West Coast Muscle Car Show
Saturday, Nov. 22, La Piazza
Second Annual
Celebration of Lights
Friday, Dec. 5, 5:30 - 8:00 pm
Caroling by school and church groups,
visit from Santa, train rides around the
Circle, Christmas cookies and hot
chocolate – and viewing of Christmas
lights. Free admission and parking.
AMU Choir Performance
Sunday, Dec. 7
Benefactor Mass
Wednesday, Dec. 10, 12:00 Noon, Ave
Maria Oratory
Dedication of the “Bob Thomas
Student Union”
Thursday, Dec. 11
Paul Todd Concert
Saturday, Dec. 13, 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Steps of Ave Maria Oratory
Opera in the Oratory
Sunday, December 21, 3:00 pm
Sunday Afternoon Concert: Advent
Admission Free, Tickets Required
(239) 280-2500
We hope you’ll visit soon!
Please call 239.280.2500 for
infomation on any of above
events.
Dec 8 Immaculate Conception, Solemnity
Dec 9 Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin
Dec 12 Our Lady of Guadalupe
Dec 25 Christmas Day, Solemnity
Dec 27 Saint John, Apostle, Evangelist
Dec 28 The Holy Family
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