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SPRING 2019

Excellence In Academics

Educating Outside The Classroom

Karl Rove, political strategist and FOX news consultant, addressing the Ave Maria University Scholarship Dinner audience

Contents 03 President’s Letter 04 AMU News 30 Academic Faculty 31 Athletics Update 34 Campus Activities 36 Alumni News

12 ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER

Nearly 300 friends of Ave Maria University gathered in the Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort on Valentine’s Day for a worthy cause: scholarships for AMU students.

14 EDUCATING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence’s visit to AMU marked the most prominent in a procession of high profile speakers on campus while AMU also hosted conferences and events with speakers from around the world.

17 THE MOTHER TERESA MUSEUM’S NEW CAMPUS HOME

The Mother Teresa Museum’s new campus location opened with a ceremony presided over by AMU President Jim Towey, both friend and legal counsel to St. Teresa of Calcutta. Earlier in the year, Sr. Prema, Superior General of the Missionaries of Charity, paid AMU a visit.

21 MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BASKETBALL SUCCESS

Men’s basketball won the Sun Conference championship receiving an invitation to the NAIA National Tournament. Women’s basketball made it to the Sun Conference quarter-finals. Coach John Lamanna and numerous players received recognition.

24 PREPARED TO LEAD - MARY REXROAT

Profile on AMU senior Mary Rexroat and her Ave Maria University experiences.

26 FROM AMU TO ENGLAND - JOHN AND MARY THRUN

Profile on AMU graduates John Thrun and Mary Buzzanca Thrun whose education and careers have led them to London.

28 MOTHER TERESA PROJECT - CHANGING LIVES

AMU students are driving expansion of activities and locations served by the Mother Teresa Project, including a student-built initiative in Immokalee, Florida.

Dr. Peter Whalen teaching a marketing course

SPRING 2019 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 1

PRESIDENT JIM TOWEY

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CONTRIBUTORS KALEIGH ADMIRE PAUL BAXA TAYLOR HODGE MARK MCCORMICK CINDY NELSON JOE PATTERSON ASHLEY PROTHRO KATY THOELE

PHOTOGRAPHY KALEIGH ADMIRE MARY-KATE DOWLING NICHOLAS FLECK TAYLOR HODGE SARAH HOLSCHUH ZACHARY JOHANNI CHRISTINA MONROE MADELINE RUBLEE ANTHONY ZOLLO MANAGING EDITOR MARK MCCORMICK

Ave Maria University Magazine is published by Ave Maria University, Ave Maria, Florida for alumni, parents, and friends. Third class postage paid at Ave Maria, Florida. Postmaster: Send address changes to the Office of Advancement, Ave Maria University, 5050 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria, FL, 34142 Ave Maria University is a Catholic, liberal arts institution of higher learning devoted to Mary the Mother of God, inspired by St. John Paul II and St. Teresa of Calcutta, and dedicated to the formation of joyful, intentional followers of Jesus Christ through Word and Sacrament, scholarship, and service.

ON THE COVER VICE PRESIDENT MIKE PENCE VISITED AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY AND SPOKE TO STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND STAFF ON MARCH 28, 2019 Official White House Photo by Myles Cullen - This photograph is provided by THE WHITE HOUSE as a courtesy and may be printed by the subject(s) in the photograph for personal use only. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not otherwise be reproduced, disseminated or broadcast, without the written permission of the White House Photo Office. This photograph may not be used in any commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House.

Letter from President Towey

Above: President Towey addressing the Crisis in the Church conference audience Right: Candlelit rosary walk by AMU students

prayers as he sits on the Chair of Saint Peter and leads us in this important hour. Inside these pages you also will read of the heartbreaking loss of one of our most popular students, Emily Acosta, who went home to God in a car accident in February. Just as a grain of wheat has to fall to the ground and die in order to bear fruit, Emily’s sudden departure and the immense sorrow this entailed gave way to a blossoming of unity on our campus, and a fresh realization of the beauty of Our Lady’s University. I will never forget the seemingly endless procession of students carrying candles as they prayed the rosary on the night Emily died. It was a holy and unforgettable night. And this has been a holy and unforgettable year! To our alumni, donors, and friends who are joined to us here on campus as

members of the Ave Maria University family, thank you for making this year so special. And get ready for even greater things next year!

God bless you,

Jim Towey President

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n academic year that began with record enrollment and our largest entering class ever, then quickly pivoted to the opening of the magnificent, $14 million Thomas and Selby Prince Building (that was built without debt!), set the bar so high that it seemed unlikely that anything could happen during the rest of the year that would compete with these signature achievements. Wrong. It has been one consequential event after the next. This edition’s cover story captures much more than the honor of our young university hosting the Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence. There is no question that the Vice President’s visit, and our growing national reputation, were among the year’s high points. Our students loved having him – and the Secret Service – on our campus. But Vice President Pence’s visit and 40-minute speech was but one of the many “outside the classroom” educational experiences that Ave Maria students enjoyed. The January conference on the clergy sex-abuse crisis and its cover-up by some members of the Church hierarchy, was profound and important. Scholars of great renown from around the world were joined by some of Ave Maria’s finest professors. Together they addressed the crisis from a feminine perspective (which one would expect from a Marian university). The presentations from this conference will be compiled in a publication that will be shared with Church leaders, and hopefully, will inform the decisions and reforms they make going forward. His Holiness Pope Francis will receive the first copy of this publication, and with it, we will send the assurance of our love and

AMUNEWS DR. ARGENTA TO RECEIVE COMMENCEMENT HONOR

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O’BRYAN PERFORMANCE HALL DEDICATED

MU students, faculty, and staff gathered for the annual “Ave’s Got Talent” show in a new venue that will transform future performers and scholarly events. Prior to the start of the show President Towey took the stage with AMU Trustee Bernadette Luca for an official dedication of this performing arts space. Mrs. Luca chose to name this performance hall in honor of her late parents, Louis and Frances O’Bryan. While speaking about her parents, Mrs. Luca recalled the love they had for one

another and how their Catholic faith was the bedrock of their marriage and family life. During the ceremony, President Towey unveiled a plaque featuring Mr. and Mrs. O’Bryan in a warm embrace. The plaque, in recognition of the generosity of Bernadette Luca and her husband Roger, is now displayed just inside the main entry into the newly-named O’Bryan Performance Hall. The Hall will be used for musical performances, recitals, talent and broadway-style shows, lectures, symposiums, and other events.

uring this year’s commencement ceremonies Ave Maria University will confer an honorary degree on AMU Trustee Dr. Lou Argenta. Dr. Argenta is a professor and chairman emeritus, department of plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He is an internationally renowned surgeon who has pioneered techniques in the treatment of wounds and burns that have helped millions all over the world. Dr. Argenta has been a strong supporter of Ave Maria University and a trustee since 2015. He chairs the Board’s Academic Affairs Committee. Dr. Argenta and his wife Ginger have eight children, including daughters Sara (Class of 2015) and Claire (Class of 2019). He will receive this degree in recognition of his exemplary life as professor, craniofacial surgeon, inventor, and Catholic layman.

TRUSTEE EMERITUS JOSEPH CANIZARO HONORED On behalf of the Board of Trustees, President Jim Towey conferred an honorary doctorate degree upon AMU Trustee Emeritus Joseph Canizaro. The event took place at a lunch in the offices of an AMU benefactor, Mrs. Phyllis Taylor, and in the company of a group of close friends and University supporters. “The Canizaros have done so much for the University and for students who benefit from the scholarships they have provided and the Library they helped to build.” stated Towey. At the ceremony, President Towey read a letter to the group from Chancellor Tom Monaghan who wrote of his friend, “It would be difficult for me to overstate the significance and impact that you have had on Ave Maria University over the years…Most importantly, I consider you as good a friend as I have; a man I admire, unique among the Catholic laity in our entire country.”

“The Canizaros have done so much for the University and for students who benefit from the scholarships they have provided and the Library they helped to build.”

Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato, a 17th century Italian Baroque painter, left works that are featured in prominent institutions throughout the world such as the Louvre Museum in Paris, the Metropolitan Museum in New York, the National Gallery in London and the Prado Museum in Madrid. Now, one of Sassoferrato’s beautiful paintings of the Madonna will hang proudly at AMU thanks to Trustee Emeritus Joseph Canizaro and his wife, Sue Ellen. This painting comes from the Canizaro’s master collection and will proudly be displayed on Ave’s campus in the Canizaro Library for students and the community to enjoy.

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JOSEPH AND SUE ELLEN CANIZARO GIVE AMU A SPECIAL GIFT

AMUNEWS

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24-HOUR COFFEE SHOP AND STUDY SPACE BRIMMING WITH ACTIVITY Midway through the fall semester the University officially re-opened the former reading room located just inside the main doors of the Canizaro Library as a casual study space and on-campus coffee shop. The newly remodeled student area has yet to be named but is open for use around the clock. It offers fresh brewed café-style coffee and a variety of pastries and snack options during hours of heavy student traffic. In addition to now offering food and beverage items, the coffee shop features improved seating and table arrangements to allow for individual and group meetings and study in a relaxed environment. Ave students now have three dining options on campus. “The new coffee shop is so convenient and the coffee is truly high quality,” stated freshman Addie Estes. “I also love the laid back environment.”

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UPGRADED BASEBALL FACILITY A HOME RUN

When the Gyrenes baseball team took the field at the beginning of the spring semester they were playing on a brand new field. Work crews completed numerous improvements to replace the original field that was often subject to flooding, unusable base paths, and other challenges that prevented play. The University invested nearly $350,000 on the much needed upgrades for the field that is nearly three feet higher than the previous field. The renovation project included drainage and irrigation systems, renovated dugouts and new bullpen areas. Including the previously completed construction of batting cages and warmup areas that are under roofing, the University has a baseball facility that is truly best in class within the conference. As Head Coach Grant Desme stated, “AMU’s new baseball field is a tremendous upgrade. The entire facility not only looks better, but the new surface plays as well as any field in the state.”

The Entrepreneurship Initiative at AMU continues to expand led by Dr. Peter Whalen, Ungarino Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Marketing. The goal of the program is to cultivate faith-based entrepreneurial virtues in Ave’s students through coursework related to new venture creation and through group collaboration between faculty and students. University faculty across multiple disciplines have joined together in support of this initiative. Faculty fellows include Dr. Peter Whalen (Entrepreneurship

HONORS PROGRAM EXPANDING THINKING AT AMU During this academic year, the Honors Program hosted a panel debate between faculty members in which Drs. Colman and Patterson debated Drs. Breidenbach and Trabbic on Catholicism and the Constitution. Following the debate, Kathryn Lopez from the National Review Institute hosted a dialogue about civil discussion in the age of Trump. The Honors Program also hosted Professor James Sonne from Stanford Law School for a lecture on the current state of religious liberty in the United States. Most recently, in conjunction with the JPII Lead program, the final Honors colloquium of the academic year featured Professor Andreas Widmer. Widmer is a former member of Pope John Paul II’s Swiss Guard who now serves as Director of the Center for Principled Entrepreneurship at Catholic University, discussed his life experiences from a faith-based perspective.

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ENTREPRENEURSHIP INITIATIVE ACTIVE AT AMU

and Marketing), Dr. Seana Sugrue (Politics), Dr. Michael Breidenbach (History), Dr. Frank Shepard (Finance), Dr. Mary Hunt (Marketing and Psychology), and Dr. James Patterson (Politics). Last semester the University hosted its first-ever Shark Tank event featuring AMU student entrepreneurs. The “sharks” (judges) were Dr. Frank Shepard, Professor Rick Llewellyn, and Beth Ann Whalen. Numerous students pitched their business ideas in front of an audience of peers, faculty, and staff. Each entrepreneur received constructive feedback on how to finesse their business plans in order to prepare for a future market launch.

AMUNEWS COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER ANNOUNCED: U.S. CONGRESSMAN DAN LIPINSKI

ve Maria University’s commencement exercises in May will feature an address by United States Congressman and devout Catholic, Dan Lipinski (Democrat, Illinois). “I am delighted that we will have a man address our graduates whose Catholic faith finds courageous expression in the public square,” remarked President Jim Towey. “Ave students who went to Washington, D.C. for the March for Life were impressed by Congressman Lipinski’s impassioned remarks from the stage. I know all of our students will be excited to hear his remarks.” Lipinski cochairs the bipartisan Congressional Pro-Life Caucus. Congressman Lipinski is a proud native of Illinois’ Third Congressional District which is near Chicago. Now in his eighth term, Rep. Lipinski enjoys a reputation as one of the most conservative Democrats in the House. Congressman Lipinski also has impressive academic credentials. He holds degrees from Northwestern University (Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering), Stanford University (Master of Science in Engineering-Economic Systems), and Duke University (Ph.D. in Political Science).

Congressman Dan Lipinski: 2019 Commencement Speaker

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PRESIDENT TOWEY CHALLENGES FLORIDA’S TOP LEADERS AT LEGISLATIVE PRAYER BREAKFAST

If Ave Maria University was once unknown to some of Florida’s top officials, it is no more. In a first for a college president, Ave Maria University President Jim Towey gave the keynote speech at the annual Legislative Prayer Breakfast in the Cabinet Room of the State Capitol. Attending the event were Governor Ron DeSantis, Senate President Bill Galvano, and House Speaker Jose Oliva, and many other influential members of the Legislature. The gathering coincidentally took place at exactly the midpoint of the 60-day legislative session.

Governor Ron DeSantis addressing key members of Florida’s Legislature

“Too many adults have placed their own interests ahead of the interests of children.” —PRESIDENT TOWEY

Towey opened his remarks with humor as he introduced the University to the attendees. “Now I know that we aren’t the most wellknown Catholic university in America, for that would be the University of Notre Dame,” he began. “But we do have a lot of things in common with Notre Dame: We both are Catholic colleges, our school colors are blue and gold, and last season neither of our football teams won the national championship,” he quipped. Towey, who served 25 years ago in the cabinet of then-Governor Lawton Chiles as Secretary of Florida’s massive, 40,000-employee Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, challenged Florida’s leaders to see the image of God in the poor and vulnerable who live on the margins of society, and give them “a shepherd’s care.” Florida has four million senior citizens, with nearly 1.5 million living near or below the poverty level, and a swelling foster care population. Towey said, “Too many adults have placed their own interests

ahead of the interests of their children, or the elderly and disabled. We all have watched parents who didn’t parent, or as the prophet Ezekiel described, shepherds who pastured themselves instead of the sheep. When that happens, the sheep suffer.” Legislative leaders also were cautioned by Towey about “the rapid advance of artificial intelligence and its inevitable dehumanizing effect on society.” He quoted Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI who wrote in Spe Salvi that “not everything technically possible is ethically permissible,” and warned of the dangers when science is not informed by faith. Governor DeSantis followed Towey to the podium and cited the nation’s rich tradition of seeking the guidance of Divine Providence in the affairs of state. Speaker Oliva concluded the program and proceeded to do just that. Notably, for the first time in Florida’s history, the governor, Senate president, and House speaker all profess the Catholic faith. Towey summed up the purpose of the morning’s gathering. He said, “A prayer breakfast reminds us of the simple proposition that we need God. Confess this need, and the Lord will show you how to lead as you serve in high office.” He encouraged state officials to be servant leaders. “The Lord left you an example when He washed the feet of His disciples. He taught you how to lead from below, not from above, not by lording authority over others, but by humbly serving, by shepherding, by placing the needs of others above your own.”

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President Towey giving the Florida Legislative Prayer Breakfast keynote address

AMUNEWS

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SHAKESPEARE IN PERFORMANCE CREATING A LASTING LEGACY

Since 2012, the University’s Shakespeare in Performance troupe has been performing an annual production. Directed by Dr. Travis Curtright, Professor of Literature and Humanities, Shakespeare in Performance consistently enchants audiences with its interactive style and unique approach to the Bard. This year will be a little more special as the troupe will perform in the fully complete Donahue Family Black Box Theater and, for the first time, the cast will offer two performances—Macbeth and The Tempest. The move of Shakespeare in Performance into the Donahue Family Black Box Theater has given Ave students a tremendous facility to develop their talents. Prior to last season, Shakespeare performances were held in classrooms. Last season, the troupe was able to utilize the new Donahue Family Black Box Theater for the first time, although the final seating and stage structure was not yet complete. This season, the theater is complete with the permanent stage and seating in place that allows for delivery of a best-in-class, immersive audience experience. Additionally, the theater’s control room was completed, video recording equipment and additional ceiling microphones were installed, and the backstage green room was finished. In addition to the troupe, Shakespeare in Performance continues to be a highly acclaimed minor of study offered by the Humanities

Department. AMU students involved in the performing arts seek out this minor as it allows them to develop their performance and production management skills while they complete study within their major of choice. As the Shakespeare in Performance minor and troupe have continued to grow, Dr. Curtright is launching an inaugural Shakespeare camp this coming summer. The camp has been designed for high school students and will be taught by Dr. Curtright along with past and present members of the troupe, most who have a masters degree in theater. The camp will be held June 16-29, 2019 and participants will stay on campus to experience a little bit of college life while immersing themselves in Shakespeare. Dr. Travis Curtright provided some additional insight into the success of Shakespeare in Performance at AMU. What has been the secret of Shakespeare in Performance’s success at AMU? The Shakespeare In Performance minor and troupe are for students who want to grow as

have waited for years to join the troupe. Given the troupe’s talent level, this spring will also include our first tragedy. Macbeth and The Tempest combined offers extensive fight choreography with daggers and broad swords, and songs and dances ranging from hip hop to musicals. This spring’s troupe will leave a mark of distinction. Why have these particular plays been chosen? Thematically, Macbeth and The Tempest are fascinating to place alongside one another. The vengeance code of “blood will have blood” in Macbeth contrasts with the tale of forgiveness in The Tempest, but both plays do share the departure point of a successful coup against legitimate authorities. Considered together, these plays reveal the agony of the unrepentant Macbeths against the joy of forgiveness that Prospera extends to all. Do you have any final thoughts? This year’s performances have a poignancy about them, as they will be the final performances for several graduating seniors. One, Jude Van de Voorde, will attend Mary Baldwin University seeking a MLitt and MFA in Shakespeare & Performance. Despite the loss of a few seniors, the troupe can count on its underclassmen for future success. For instance, Brigid Bakin, has been accepted into the Shakespeare & Company summer intensive program in Massachusetts.

Dr. Travis Curtright coaching the Shakespeare In Performance student troupe

How has the troupe impacted the way AMU students engage with Shakespeare? Teaching Shakespeare through performance radically changes students’ understanding of the plot and language of the plays. Instead of reading alone and in silence, scenes come alive in performance. When students speak the language, address one another in character, and move onto a stage, the play suddenly becomes very real to them which allows a fuller and deeper understanding of Shakespeare and his themes. Why is Shakespeare In Performance putting on two different plays this year? Having two plays was a gift for and tribute to our troupe’s seniors and hard working underclassmen. Many are veteran actors; others

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artists and as persons. Shakespeare’s characters, after all, are larger than life. Every one of them is a poet, philosopher, and passionate lover of someone or something. Ave’s students treasure the characters they get to play because it offers them a chance to grow in mind and spirit.

2019 Scholarship Dinner Una Serata d’ Amore

Nearly 300 friends of Ave Maria University gathered in the Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort on Valentine’s Day in a loving celebration for a worthy cause: scholarships for AMU students.

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he 8th Annual Scholarship Dinner featured renowned political strategist and former White House Senior Advisor Karl Rove as the keynote speaker. Mr. Rove, whom President George W. Bush once described as the “architect” of his re-election campaign, recounted memories from his time at the White House and provided a historical perspective to the gridlock and acrimony in Washington. He stressed that despite the many challenges America’s democracy faces today with the polarization of the political parties, the country faced even greater polarization over a century ago and

emerged triumphant. Rove praised Ave Maria University and commended it for its faith, values, and affordability. “When I went off to college, my family suffered some serious reverses, and in the middle of my first semester at college I was told I was on my own,” he said. “The only way I got to go to college was on a $1,500/year scholarship and a couple of jobs…at one point, I was reduced to living for the better part of four months in an unused storage closet. But, I got to go to school because somebody cared enough to create a scholarship fund, and I got one of them.” Rove concluded, “What you’re doing

tonight to provide the opportunity for people to come to this fantastic University, and get an education steeped in religion, and faith, and theology, and service, is really incredible, and I want to thank you for doing it.” Rove wasn’t the only one at the podium to delight the audience. Later in the program Ave seniors Corinne Zay and Phil Rhein reflected on their years at Ave and spoke about how they had grown together in faith, knowledge, and love. They also expressed their gratitude for Ave’s donors who provided them with some of the financial support necessary to attend Ave Maria University. The couple surprised

the audience with announcing that they recently discerned their own vocation to marriage - to each other! During the night, several performances showcased Ave’s student talent. Freshman Marvin Morales performed “Bésame Mucho” by Consuelo Velázquez on the violin, captivating the audience. Seniors John Paul Beller, Sarah Seghers, and Maura Littleton, members of Ave’s Shakespeare in Performance program, delighted the audience with a choreographed dance number to the tune of Michael Buble’s “Feeling Good.” The evening concluded with senior tenor Matheus Bressan performing the Italian love song, “Mattinata,” which received a standing ovation. Scholarship support is vital to the University’s financial viability. Chairman of the Board of Trustees Michael Timmis, who with his wife Laura and parents Nancy and Mike were the lead sponsors of the event, emphasized the importance of scholarships in the life of the institution. “We take a lot of pride in keeping the costs of attending Ave Maria low so that many large families with limited resources can still access a first-class Catholic education,” he said. “Because many of Ave’s students get scholarship assistance to make ends meet, we are fortunate that so many donors are investing in the futures of these young men and women.” If you would like to make a gift to support scholarships at AMU, please contact the Office of Advancement at 239-2802586 or donate online at https://donate. avemaria.edu.

AMU students Corinne Zay and Philip Rhein telling their story to the Scholarship Dinner audience

Leah Darrow speaking at the Genuine Feminine conference

AMU’s Education Extends

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Well Beyond Classrooms

When the Vice President of the United States, the Honorable Mike Pence, came to Ave Maria University’s campus and addressed an overflow crowd in the O’Bryan Performance Hall in March, he became the most prominent of what has been a procession of high profile speakers to address Ave students.

One measure of the greatness of a university is the vibrancy of its academic life outside of the classroom, and here, Ave Maria University excels. The books and articles its professors write, the caliber of doctoral theses they supervise, and the conferences, lectures, and speakers the university hosts, make a real difference both in the wider world and within the university itself. This year the University hosted conferences and events with speakers from across the U.S. and around the world. Each event

Dr. Scott Hahn speaking at the Aquinas the Biblical Theologian conference

way that he read and taught the Scriptures. Dr. Scott Hahn gave a featured keynote, “Aquinas and Biblical Theology,” showing how the work of this revered theologian can be helpful for the Church today as she considers how to best read the Word of God for all its worth. This conference was co-sponsored by the Aquinas Center for Theological Renewal (located at AMU) and the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, in Steubenville, Ohio. The inaugural year of the new Thomas and Selby Prince Building and its spacious confines proved to be a worthy setting not simply for Vice President Pence, but for others taking full advantage of its state-ofthe-art technology. Dr. Elizabeth Lev, a renowned art historian, best-selling author, international speak-

er (and a certified sommelier!) enthralled a near capacity crowd with her November presentation. Dr. Lev’s lecture, “How Catholic Art Saved the Faith,” emphasized the value of art and beauty to teach and inspire the faithful centuries ago when the Church faced a serious crisis. Next up was Brother Ignatius Perkins, O.P., a Provincial Director for the Dominican Friars. Brother Ignatius addressed the challenge of end-of-life issues by offering a Christian perspective on life, healing, and fulfillment in Christ. Finally, students and faculty heard from Dr. Thomas Hibbs, Dean of the Honors College and Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Baylor University. Dr. Hibbs’ lecture was entitled, “Sickness unto Death? Suffering, Evil, and Death in Contemporary Popular Culture.”

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took on key and relevant topics to provide Catholic perspectives on faith, politics, gender roles, and many more. These conferences informed and stimulated scholarly conversation that will affect future research, writing and classroom curriculum, while they engaged students in the issues of the day. The first conference of spring 2019 concentrated, indeed, on a difficult issue: the clergy sex abuse scandal and its cover-up within the Church. The conference was entitled, Crisis in the Church: On the Faith of Mary as the Pathway to Peace. How should the faithful, especially the laity, respond? What are the deep issues at stake in how people react to scandal? At this gathering, the AMU community heard insights on questions like these by Dr. Michele Schumacher of the University of Fribourg, Switzerland, who presented the keynote address, “Marian Faith in a Time of Crisis.” Plenary addresses included several of AMU’s own professors. Dr. Janice Breidenbach encouraged the faithful to heed Mary’s words in the Gospel of John, “Do whatever He tells you”(John 2:5). Dr. Maria Fedoryka spoke on human sexuality and the “Battle for the Human Soul.” Kathy Clarke, of the Mothers of the Church in the Diocese of Kilmore, Ireland and Dr. Mark Miravalle of Franciscan University of Steubenville also delivered plenary addresses, as did President Jim Towey in a luncheon address. Each speaker presented thoughts surrounding the humble and unshaken faith of Our Lady as a provider of hope and a model to allow Catholics to move forward in this difficult time. The second major event of the semester was AMU’s annual multi-session conference discussing the thought and impact of St. Thomas Aquinas. This conference is a highlight for Ave graduate and undergraduate Theology students. This year the conference focused on the theme, Aquinas the Biblical Theologian. The campus bustled with over 70 speakers from around the world, including numerous University faculty and graduates, presenting on the Bible’s importance in Aquinas’s work and on the

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Dr. Elizabeth Lev

The final major academic gathering on campus this year was the “Second Annual Symposium on Creating FaithBased Value” in April. This symposium, Innovation and Faith: Thriving Amidst Change, challenged students to leave college and enter the workforce prepared to answer questions regarding how to deal with the changing economy, cultural shifts, and political conflicts they will face. The symposium featured Dr. Jeffrey Cornwall, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Belmont University in Nashville as its keynote speaker. He delivered an address entitled “The Good Entrepreneur: Finding the Intersection of Faith and Opportunity.” The University’s own Dr. Michael Breidenbach, Assistant Professor of History, Dr. James Patterson, Assistant Professor of Politics, and Dr. Seana Sugrue, Professor of Politics, led a panel discussion of “Times of Upheaval: Adapting and Thriving in the Church, at Work, and in the Public Square.” Dr. Peter Whalen, the Ungarino Associate Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship at AMU, delivered the second keynote address, called “Embracing Uncertainty.” Fox News and Wall Street Journal columnist Karl Rove, who authored a best-selling memoir on his experiences as the “architect” of George W. Bush’s successful election and re-election campaigns, enthralled AMU students and donors alike as the keynote speaker at the University’s annual scholarship dinner.

Dr. Thomas Hibbs

Dr. Michele Schumacher

His humor and insights left a lasting impression on the many undergraduates in attendance. He followed in the footsteps of Jeb Bush, U.S. Senator Rick Scott, and others who have found the public square a fitting place to make use of their considerable gifts. Vice President Pence, in his remarks to the University’s students, said, “I am here to thank the entire community here at Ave

Maria University for the critical work you do to educate America’s next generation of leaders, public servants, and leaders in faith.” The excellence of the Catholic liberal arts education at Ave Maria University has captured the attention and respect of not only the Vice President of the United States, but most especially the students of the University who leave campus prepared to engage the world.

Mother Teresa Museum ribbon cutting ceremony: Thomas & Selby Prince, Craig & Pat Jilk, Michael Timmis, Sisters of Missionaries of Charity, President Jim Towey, Jennifer Nodes, Thomas Monaghan, Rhodora Donahue

other Teresa of Calcutta went home to God over 20 years ago. Her thousands of Missionaries of Charity sisters, brothers and priests (MC’s) continue her work among the poorest of the poor throughout the world. But outside of her religious order, who is honoring her legacy and creating new generations of devotees of this great saint? It should come as no surprise that a small, humble and hidden Catholic college – Ave Maria University – is leading

the way. This year the Mother Teresa Museum was officially opened with an impressive ceremony presided over by President Jim Towey, a friend who provided legal counsel to St. Teresa of Calcutta during the last 12 years of her life. The ribbon-cutting ceremony concluded the last of the major dedications in the new Thomas and Selby Prince Building. In attendance were Rhodora Donahue and other members of her family, the Princes, and Bernadette O’Bryan Luca—whose names are commemorated in the spacious

new building. “No one in the Church is promoting devotion to Mother Teresa like Ave Maria University,” Towey said at the dedication. “Sister Prema’s official permission in 2013 to undertake this project, the incredible generosity of AMU trustee Tricia Flatley and her family and Pat and Craid Jilk, along with the creativity of Jennifer Nodes, the Museum’s curator and head of library services, made this simple but stately Museum possible.” Following Towey’s remarks, Sr. Ajaya, Superior of

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Mother Teresa Museum – Calcutta’s New Home on Campus

the MC’s Miami soup kitchen and shelter, reminded the audience of Mother Teresa’s call to do “something beautiful for God through little acts of love.” The 3,300 square foot Museum is designed to take the visitor on a path that recounts the life and work of Mother Teresa via thirty large storyboards which the MC’s created for English and Spanish-speaking visitors. Copies of hand-written letters of Mother Teresa, a piece of the actual threadbare sari Mother Teresa once wore, and other relics and

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The 3,300 square foot Museum is designed to take the visitor on a path that recounts the life and work of Mother Teresa.

artifacts are on display. The Museum also includes a study space for scholars, a contemplation space, a small theater for school groups to watch video on Mother’s life, and kiosks where visitors can learn about the Mother Teresa Project and hear stories of Mother Teresa as told by Sr. Prema, Sr. Dorothy (one of the first sisters to join the MC’s), and Sr. Tanya (who accompanied Mother Teresa when she met with Princess Diana), among others. Along the way, visitors can see a near perfect replication of Mother Teresa’s room - right down to the rough concrete floor (a detail remarked upon by Sister Prema when she visited). While the Museum is primarily about Mother Teresa’s life and mission, visitors learn of the important work done by AMU students through the Mother Teresa Project and their mission trips to Uganda,

Jennifer Nodes and Jacinta Hogan with Vice President Mike Pence

Haiti, India, Mexico and other MC homes throughout the world. It also confirms the increasingly close ties between the University and the Archdiocese of Calcutta. In 2017, the first recipient of an AMU scholarship for students from Calcutta, Christopher Das, matriculated at AMU (see related article). In May, President Towey and eleven Ave students will travel to Calcutta for the sixth straight year to work alongside the MC’s, and deliver the fifth installment of an annual donation of $5,000 by the Uni-

versity to the Archdiocese to install solar panels to allow students in youth hostels near Calcutta to study in the evening. “Whether through volunteer projects in the nearby farmworker community of Immokalee, or in faraway places like Uganda, or on a casual stroll through the new Museum, Ave Maria University students are getting to know Mother Teresa of Calcutta and following in her footsteps,” said Kimberly King, Vice President for Student Affairs, who will be accompanying this year’s Calcutta missionaries.

n January, the University received a surprise visit from Sister Prema, the Superior General of the Missionaries of Charity, the religious order Mother Teresa established during her lifetime. Sr. Prema, accompanied by Sr. Immacula, the MC regional superior, was passing through Miami after visiting the MC homes in Haiti. Having heard about her travel plans, President Towey prevailed upon Sr. Prema to visit Ave’s campus and new Mother Teresa Museum, taking advantage of the good fortune that Sr. Prema was in the United States precisely when the Museum was in its finishing stages. She would become its first official visitor! After her tour in early Janaury, Sr. Prema spoke to an overflow gathering of AMU students assembled in the Museum theater. She reminded them of the great love Mother Teresa had for young people and how the “world needs happy families who are faithful to each other and forgiving despite all the struggles and difficulties they face.” After her brief talk, Sr. Prema agreed to answer questions from students about her own life and how she found her vocation. She recounted how she was in her mid-20’s when she first met Mother Teresa during Mother’s visit to Germany. “A relationship with God requires quality time,” she said, “just like any relationship.” She emphasized how God is always there for us, and that it is we who need to “beg for the gift of faith, hope, and love…we need to open up and He will take the final step. He knows us and He searches for us.” She added that it was important also to cultivate joy which is at

the heart of the Catholic faith. “Joy is a reality that is always present,” she told the students. “The world gives many reasons for sadness and depression, but God has enabled us to go beyond that,” she said. “Nothing and no one can take away the Christian joy of the Resurrection—only we can give it up.” Asked to give a final message for AMU students before returning to Miami, Sr. Prema stressed how much they are loved by God, and how much He expects them to bring that love to those who live in darkness. Without doubt Sr. Prema’s visit to Ave Maria brought much light – and joy!

Sister Prema, M.C. speaking to AMU students during her campus visit

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Mother Teresa’s Successor Makes Surprise Visit

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Christopher Das – AMU’s First M.C. Scholar

hristopher Das arrived on the Ave Maria University campus in January, 2017 not knowing what to expect. He had come from Calcutta, India as the first recipient of a newly-funded scholarship from AMU for a student wanting to study Theology that is chosen by the Missionaries of Charity (MC’s) from “the city of joy.” Christopher’s path to Ave began when he met the sisters of the MC’s. Das lived in a crowded neighborhood that consisted of Muslim, Hindu, and Christian families. He remembers especially the great number of children in the neighborhood. Christopher lived close to the MC’s Motherhouse and remembers the Sisters making their regular visits to the homes of Christians. Being around the Sisters inspired a great faith in God. Christopher joined the John Paul II Theology of the Body group and developed a passion for Theology after reading Scott Hahn’s Rome Sweet Home. Today, Christopher is a junior in AMU’s Theology program with a minor in Philosophy. He is planning to write a senior thesis on Thomas Aquinas’ understanding of Christology. But, being such a long way from home has been a challenge. Homesickness has been a frequent companion as he has only gone home once since arriving at Ave. Despite the challenge, Christopher says that his faith life has increased considerably due to the Catholic spirituality that permeates the campus. “I don’t need to search for opportunities to pray,” says Das, “they are always there.” His household, Filii in Filio, has also been crucial to abating

AMU student Chistopher Das

his homesickness. “They are beautiful people,” affirms Christopher, “and I never feel homesick when I am with them.” Equally important has been Christopher’s participation in intramural soccer, Ave’s Got Talent, and Ave Idol—which he won this past March. He also works in Physical Plant in a part-time job to provide for his living expenses.

It is not an exaggeration to say that in 2 ½ short years, Christopher Das has transitioned from being a stranger in a strange land to one of Ave’s most popular students. He will conclude his studies in 2020 and return to India, where he will place the education he received at AMU in service of the faith formation of Calcutta’s youth.

MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

TRIUMPHANT SEASONS DESPITE TRAGEDY To this resounding chant, the men’s basketball team accomplished something that had never been achieved in the history of AMU’s athletic team sports—a Sun Conference Championship. In an emotional championship game, the Gyrenes defeated Coastal Georgia by a score of 83-67, capping off an impressive turnaround season that saw them win 19 more games than the previous season. The victory was enhanced by the presence of the girls’ basketball and softball teams, and hundreds of classmates who chanted the number “23” in honor of their fellow student, Emily Acosta, who was killed in a tragic car accident three days before the game (see related story). In a stunning coincidence, the championship game was

Southwestern (Kan.) in the NAIA Division II National Tournament. The tremendous job by fourth-year head coach John Lamanna won him the Sun Conference Co-Coach of the Year award. “It was a season of firsts,”

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“Twenty-three! Twenty-three!”

the Gyrenes’ twenty-third victory of the season, played on the twenty-third of the month. Draped on an empty chair on the bench was Emily’s jersey, #23. The men’s season came to an end on March 7 in Sioux Falls, SD with an 89-80 loss to

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AMU men’s basketball team following their Sun Conference championship game

exclaimed Coach Lamanna. Aside from the first coaching award, came the first conference championship, the first trip to the NAIA national tournament, and the first to have three players nominated for first team all-conference recognition--Romello Bates, Leo Behrend, and Gianpoalo Riccio. Returning junior Behrend ranked as one of the top 3 scorers in the conference tournament in a season that saw him average 20 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Behrend earned conference player of the week recognition three times, while teammate Gianpaolo Riccio was named player of the week twice. Significantly, several players distinguished themselves in the classroom as well as on the court. Greenan Sullivan, Jovan Grujicic, and Steven Krusevac were all honored for their academic efforts and were named Academic All-Conference. The women’s team, too, enjoyed a remarkable season with a 21-9 overall record. The team ended their season with a tough 76-70 loss to Florida Memorial in the quarter-finals of the Sun Conference Tournament. Overall, the team exceed-

Vice President Pence with the AMU women’s basketball team Official White House Photo by Myles Cullen

ed expectations despite being in rebuild mode. Under a new coach with several new players, the team received outstanding leadership from its three captains, Emily Acosta, Katie Houbolt, and Sarah Miller. “These three showed great leadership in creating a team chemistry that contributed to much of our success,” said first year Coach Megan Becker. “We look to build on what they started, continue to improve our team culture, and create

an environment that is not only successful, but a joy to be a part of.” It was the performance of the team’s underclassmen that really surprised, notably sophomores Taylor Allen and Danielle Weinmann. Allen broke the school record for 3-point field goal percentage and Weinmann finished second in scoring and rebounds. The team standout was junior Sarah Miller who capped off a record setting year by reaching a career 1,000 points.

AVE CAMPUS GRIEVES THE LOSS OF EMILY ACOSTA T H E D AY A F T E R T H E AV E M A R I A W O M E N ’ S B A S K E T B A L L S E A S O N E N D E D , a bright light at AMU suddenly went out. Twenty-year old Emily Acosta, a junior and captain of the team, was killed in an auto accident only a few miles from campus. That evening, a shocked and grief-stricken campus community turned out on the Mall in droves for an impromptu Mass, followed by a memorial candlelight vigil to pray for Emily’s soul and the consolation of her family, and for teammate Katie Houbolt’s full recovery. The following morning the University’s students, faculty, and staff packed the Ave Maria Church to remember Emily in an emotional memorial Mass. “Our shock and sorrow over the loss of Emily are beyond words,” President Towey said. “Emily’s smile lit up the lives of so many, from her former basketball and softball teammates, to her many friends privileged to know her. The void she leaves on our campus and in our lives cannot be measured. Emily was one of a kind. It will take a long time for all of us to process what happened.” Emily’s coach, Megan Becker, who was at the hospital to be with Katie and console her teammates, as well as comfort Emily’s parents when they were notified by law enforcement of their loss, was optimistic despite this awful setback. “Losing Emily will be a big void in our program,” she said. “She was the glue that held this team together. I know the girls are going to work extra hard in the off-season, and everything they do will be for Emily. We all know how much she loved the game and, more importantly, loved her teammates, and we want to honor her by continuing to lift each other up and build on our success.”

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Miller broke several school records, earned First Team All-Sun Conference honors, and was recognized as the Conference’s Champion of Character. Her achievements in the classroom also earned Sarah a place on the Google Cloud Academic All-District Team. Miller was joined on the Academic All-Conference team by teammates Georgia Slay and Danielle Domino. Other major contributors were senior Katie Houbolt, who was named Second Team All-Conference, and junior Amanda Kasprzak, who led the team in blocked shots. “It’s exciting looking at all the season records that were achieved this year knowing the majority of our players were sophomores and juniors, and their careers aren’t over yet,” said Coach Becker. No doubt #23 will serve as an inspiration for even greater things in 2019-20.

PREPARED FOR SERVANT LEADERSHIP – MARY REXROAT

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THE RESUME MARY REXROAT BUILT DURING HER FOUR YEARS ON CAMPUS IS IMPRESSIVE: Student Government

Association President, Mother Teresa Scholar, Varsity Athlete (Cross Country and Lacrosse), President of the Sisterhood of Mary Magdalene, Resident Assistant, Mission Outreach member, and Student Athlete Advisory Committee member. In addition to these formal roles, Mary has provided many Mother Teresa Project service hours locally and traveled on mission trips. She even helped found a non-profit organization called Champions of Charity which is in place at nearly twenty colleges to promote student volunteer service projects. Mary will graduate in May and start her career this summer. In a recent interview, Mary shared thoughts on her AMU experience and collegiate success.

Why did you choose to come to AMU? When I visited AMU during my junior year of high school, I felt at home. The people were so welcoming, the faculty expressed genuine interest in their students, and Christ was at the center. These three have rung true throughout my last four years.

accurately and intelligibly do well in interviews and in day-to-day work projects. Effective communication is what helped me get an internship at a medical device company after my junior year. Ave has also offered numerous leadership opportunities which helped me to be organized and decisive.

How did you select your major and minor? I chose to have a major in Biochemistry and a minor in Biology because science has always been an interest of mine. Over time it seems the more I have learned about how the world functions, the more awe and amazement I have for God’s creations.

You are the Student Government Association (SGA) President. How has this role helped you on campus and with your future goals? Through this campus leadership role I learned so much and developed a broader appreciation for everyone at AMU, from administrators to students. The role works daily with AMU’s administration which has shown me the dedication and focus the staff has for the students. My experience has sparked a desire to work on institutional healthcare reform that will allow flexibility for parents in medicine and bring awareness the scientific consequences of abortion.

How has your AMU experience prepared you for internships and your upcoming career? I have found that the breadth of liberal arts learning and the focus on communication skills at AMU helped me to

What other groups were you involved with over the years at AMU? I set a goal for myself at AMU to get involved in a variety of organizations that would broaden my knowledge and skills. I am a Mother Teresa Scholar and have volunteered with this group since freshman year. I ran Cross Country for AMU and played Lacrosse for one season too. I serve as the President of the Sisterhood of Mary Magdalene. I was a Resident Assistant. I was a member of the Mission Outreach team for one year. And, I served on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee for two years.

How have you balanced your faith, academics and extra-curricular activities over the years? I did it by putting faith first. I firmly believe that not even the smallest thing I did was without the grace of God. I always felt that if I gave my time to Him, that God returned it tenfold. If I kept a relationship with God, everything else went as it was supposed to. Ave fosters a culture that made it easy for me to grow in faith by developing a much deeper, more personal relationship with God.

Do you have some favorite AMU memories? One that will always remain with me was seeing over six hundred AMU students gather together this semester after Emily Acosta passed away. We united ourselves ardently in prayer for her and her family, and in comfort for each other. It was truly moving. Another of my favorite memories was when the football team ran to our packed student zone after beating Southeastern for the division title. There was so much camaraderie! What job do you have lined up after graduation? I will work at a bioelectric technology company as Manager of Regulatory Affairs. I also intend to go back to school for post-graduate education in healthcare. I also met my fiancé who is a 2018 AMU graduate while here. We will be married this coming summer. What would you say to someone considering attending AMU? I would say, “What are you waiting for? Apply!” And I would tell them, “Be open to where God calls you and trust in His plans.”

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How did your cross country experience influence your life? The members of the cross country team became my second family at AMU. I am deeply grateful for the friendships I formed during that time and for having a group of friends I could rely on. The sport itself strengthened my work ethic, time-management skills, and mental capacity.

FROM AMU TO ENGLAND – JOHN AND MARY THRUN a v e m a r i a m a g a z i n e | s p r i n g 2019

MEET JOHN THRUN (2017) AND MARY BUZZANCA THRUN (2018), TWO OUTSTANDING ALUMNI OF AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY. They were married

nearly a year ago and currently live in London. In a recent interview, John and Mary share their thoughts on their time at Ave Maria and how those experiences shape their lives overseas. How did you chose to attend AMU? John: The Newman Catholic colleges run in my family. My older siblings had gone to Franciscan, Christendom, and Saint Mary Magdalen, but none of them

appealed to me like Ave. Mary: I was drawn to the joy I felt on campus when I visited during my junior year of high school. You could really feel how happy and kind people on campus were. So, how did you two meet? John: I was working for campus security, finding any reason I could to go to the mailroom [where Mary worked]. Love at first sight is an understatement. After a year of dating, our trust and love for one another grew deeply. Mary went on a family vacation to Rome the following summer where I flew out and surprised her in her favorite parish—Santa Maria de la Scala. We then got engaged and after college tied the knot in St. Joseph’s Basilica in Massachusetts.

Mary: During my freshman orientation, President Towey said that 1 in 5 students find their spouse on campus. I thought, “Yeah right!” I worked in the mailroom and John would come in several times a day to get coffee, which he later confessed was an excuse to talk to me. It didn’t take me long to realize that I had to spend the rest of my life with him. Mary, what service projects were you involved with at AMU? Through the Mother Teresa Project, I was part of Habitat for Humanity and went on mission trips to Mexico City and Calcutta. I learned that no matter where I went in the world, people just want to be loved, and loving your neighbor as yourself is the first step to imitating Jesus. John, how did AMU help you grow your faith? AMU was instrumental to my faith journey. It is only now that I can truly look back and know that Ave was exactly where I was meant to be. The proximity of the sacraments was especially motivating to me and something I did not

Mary, how did you balance your faith and work in college and today? They say that out of friends, good grades, and sleep, you get to pick two and that’s true in the sense that you learn very quickly what’s important and what’s not. A game changer for me was just getting up an hour earlier, to do homework, hit the gym, or grab coffee with a friend. John and I still get up early to pray together, and that helps our days get off to a positive start. John, how did you find your starting job out of AMU, and how did you get to London? I was referred to my first job with Gartner by my friend who is also an AMU grad, Christian Amland. They hired me and after one year in the Fort Myers office, I received a promotion with a move to our office in London. Mary and I live just outside London and both of us are now happily working for Gartner. Mary, what are some new memories you’ve made since living in London? Moving to England has been incredible! I still can’t get over the history (our local pub was built in 1500!) and London is breathtaking. It’s been really fun to be immersed in a new culture, even though

I’ve been scolded for making tea the wrong way! John, what were some of the exciting challenges related to the London move? The visa process was not a walk in the park, but well worth the wait! Before we knew it we were on our way. After a bit of culture shock, it has now become routine in a way. We are very blessed to have this opportunity, and to live our dream of traveling Europe! Mary, what were some of your favorite memories at AMU? Some of the best times I had at AMU were at events, especially Country Night! But, my favorite memory is of attending Mother Teresa’s canonization in Rome. From seeing President Towey participate in the canonization mass, to watching the Pope ride by in the Popemobile, to eating gelato three meals a day, that was absolutely a trip to remember! John, what advice would you give to prospective students looking at AMU? Go, you won’t regret it! Ave is a vibrant, loving, growing, Catholic community and no matter what your background, you are invited to have a seat there. Definitely go and visit! You, like me, will be drawn to the joy, the education, and the faith. I can’t say enough how much I loved AMU. Oh, and the beaches are nice too!

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appreciate enough at the time.

MOTHER TERESA PROJECT – AT HOME AND ABROAD Students Changing Lives, Beginning With Their Own

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new Ave Maria outreach to the Immokalee Soccer School and Academy (ISSA), was formed within the Mother Teresa Project (MTP) in response to a need that three AMU students saw during their local service work. In late Spring 2018, the idea for Friends of ISSA was formed by a group of three AMU students; Resam Moghimi (2019, Biology), Mary-Kate Dowling (2020, Communications) and Jacinta Hogan (2021, Marketing). ISSA is a non-profit organization located just a few miles from campus that is dedicated to helping low income children by providing structured after-school programs. The students saw the benefit ISSA was providing but realized that these same children were in need of a deeper level of support for long-term academic success. The primary focus of the Friends of ISSA is to offer ISSA children organized mentoring and esteem-building activities. Currently, the Friends club has grown to over 50 student volunteers. AMU students travel to Immokalee each week to run a mentoring program, supporting over 30 children between the ages of 6 and 16. The program is structured so that each child is paired with an AMU student for the entire semester

Founders of Friends of ISSA Resam Moghimi, Mary-Kate Dowling and Jacinta Hogan

to ensure stability and build meaningful child-mentor relationships. AMU students that are not assigned as direct mentors provide supplemental support services to the child-mentor groups. Friends of ISSA is already seeing positive results with the youth being served, including improved grades and more positive attitudes and social interactions with the AMU students. At the same time, Ave’s students are gaining valuable experience as leaders making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. As Jacinta Hogan explained, “Our group is making a mission trip to Immokalee every week.

Immokalee is so close but it is an entirely different world than what we see in Ave each day.” Dozens of Ave Maria students also seek to follow in Mother Teresa’s footprints abroad. During the winter and spring academic breaks, several student groups traveled to Mother Teresa’s missions in foreign lands. As student participation continues to grow, the MTP likewise continues to expand to meet the increasing demand of students for mission trip opportunities. History was made during the winter break when the first group of AMU stu-

dents ventured on a mission trip to South America - to the city of Salvador, Brazil. The Missionaries of Charity (MC’s) have a large presence in Brazil with 13 homes located throughout the country. The MC home in Salvador is their fourth largest. Students focused on care for the elderly and also worked at a day care center that supports local children. Salvador is one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas and was founded by Portuguese explorers. Fortunately, AMU tennis coach Carlos Pinel, who is originally from Brazil, traveled with the students and helped bridge the language and cultural barriers.

The trip was so successful that another group of Ave students will travel to the MC’s in Salvador this May. The MTP also achieved another “first” – Ave Maria male students traveled to the U.S. border town of Tijuana, Mexico during the winter break to serve with the MC priests at their worldwide headquarters. The timing of this trip also happened to coincide with activity related to the human caravan on its way from Honduras to the U.S. border. With careful pre-planning, the MTP group avoided any border problems. The student service work consisted of engaging with the youth ministry overseen by the MC Fathers and providing support for the MC Sisters in their nearby soup kitchen and children’s day care facility. In addition, the male student group also spent time visiting the elderly and helping distribute food, drink, and blankets to the homeless that congregate along a canal. Perhaps most memorable for the students

was a moving Mass which an MC Father, Fr. Cyril, celebrated for the caravan group huddled near the border. Over the winter and spring semester breaks, AMU students returned to Haiti, Washington, DC, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico City. Following the completion of the spring semester, student MTP trips are already planned for Calcutta, Uganda, Mexico City and, as mentioned, a follow-up mission trip to Salvador, Brazil. The MTP goal for next year is to send 100 students to the MC missions.

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Images of AMU students involved in service project work in Immokalee, FL, Brazil and India

ACADEMIC FACULTY

Faculty Notes 2019 AMU PROMOTIONS:

Ave Maria University is pleased to announce

the promotion of three current professors during the spring semester. Dr. Ladislav Sallai is now Associate Professor of Biology. He has been at AMU for eleven years and holds the following degrees: Ph.D. in Philosophy, University of North Dakota; M.S. in Pharmacy, Comenius University (Slovakia, EU). Dr. Stefanie Morris is now Associate Professor of Psychology. She has been at AMU for six years and holds the following degrees: Ph.D. in Psychology with specialty in Lifespan Human Development, Oklahoma State University; M.S. in Psychology, University of Dallas; B.S. in Psychology, Southern Nazarene University. Dr. James Patterson is now Associate Professor of Politics. He has been at AMU for three years and holds the following degrees: Ph.D. in American politics and M.A. in Political Theory, University of Virginia; B.A. in Political Science and Media Studies, University of Houston

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2019 AMU SABBATICALS:

Dr. Michael A. Dauphinais, Professor of Theology and Department Chair, is co-authoring a book this spring with Dr. Matthew Levering tentatively titled, Biblically Renewing the Catholic Church. Dr. Dauphinais also plans to begin writing an introduction to St. Thomas Aquinas’s theological masterpiece, the Summa Theologiae. Dr. John Colman, Associate Professor of Politics and Honors Program Director, is working on a book during the spring semester about securing religious toleration according to Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and Benjamin Franklin. Dr. Colman will also be writing the early chapters of a book about English philosopher John Locke. Dr. Paul Baxa, Associate Professor of History and Department Chair, is planning his upcoming fall research and writing for a book on Futurism, motorsports, and automotive design in Fascist Italy.

AMU FACULTY RECOGNITION: Dr. James Vranish (Chemistry) recently published an article with scientists at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in the ACS Nano Journal demonstrating the ability

to accelerate chemical processes carried out by multiple enzymes. Dr. Vranish generated a system that is capable of speeding up multistep reactions by more than 10,000% with the potential for use in industrial chemical production and biosensor design. This work led to a patent for Dr. Vranish. This spring, Dr. Vranish and several AMU Biochemistry majors hosted a demonstration and lab tour for high school students from Immokalee, FL. The visiting students were led by AMU graduate Jeffrey Simpson (B.A. Biochemistry, 2018). The tour was a part of the SSTRIDE program within the Florida State University College of Medicine which aims to improve science education for economically disadvantaged high school students and minorities.

Drs. Tony Barbosa (Chemistry, Chair), James Vranish (Chemistry) and Stephen Cronin (Biology) have been working on a State of Florida Department of Health funded Alzheimer’s research project. Through a grant received, AMU was able to purchase equipment and supplies and provide internships to AMU undergraduates for work to create drug-like agonists and improve upon the biochemical assay of the SIRT1 protein. The project has been in progress through this academic year with AMU students assisting in the research. Dr. Barbosa stated, “We have a long way to go to discover an Alzheimer’s cure, but this type of work provides an opportunity to train our bright, motivated students to be prepared to tackle similar challenges in their careers.” Drs. Adam Van Wart (Theology, Director of Undergraduate Studies) and Jeffrey Walkey (Theology) delivered papers at a conference hosted by Thomas Institute Utrecht (Tilburg University) in the Netherlands. The conference theme was “Initiation and Mystagogy in Thomas Aquinas.” Dr. Van Wart presented an essay titled “Aquinas on the Linguistic Intelligibility of the Mystically Ineffable and the Necessity of the Former for the Realization of the Latter,” and Dr. Walkey delivered a paper titled “‘Clothing’ Oneself with Christ: Thomistic Reflections on the Kenotic Character of Formation in the Catholic Tradition.” Dr. Travis Curtright (Humanities and Literature, Director of Shakespeare in Performance) was one of six scholars invited to lecture on “Educating Young People About Love and Friendship” at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross (Rome, Italy) in November. His lecture and an interview on Shakespeare’s Much Ado about Nothing is included in an e-learning web portal of teaching resources for literary classics: http://en.pusc.it/csi/educare2018/programma.

ATHLETICS UPDATE

Ave Gyrene Athletics FOOTBALL Joe Patterson – Ron Finley Sun Division Coach of the Year MEN’S SOCCER Eddie Gaven – Sun Conference Coach of the Year MEN’S BASKETBALL John Lamanna – Sun Conference Co-Coach of the Year

Athlete Awards from Fall-Winter FOOTBALL John Preyer – NAIA Honorable Mention All-American Will Tate – Sun Division Offensive Player of the Year All Mid-South Sun Division First Team: Kobi Bowers, Dylan Bryan, Shar-Quez Hamilton, Quino Mauricette, Devyn McCormick, John Preyer, Will Tate, Jack Weston All Mid-South Sun Division Second Team: Savohn Hunt, Kevon O’Connor CROSS-COUNTRY Gabriel Hogan and Mary Goetz – First Team All-Sun Conference Michaela Elmer – Second Team AllConference Seven Gyrenes earned Sun Conference All-Academic honors and four were named Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athletes MEN’S SOCCER Resam Moghimi – TSC Champion of Character Kaveon Dux – Second Team All-Sun Conference Andrea Salomone – Sun Conference AllAcademic and Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athlete WOMEN’S SOCCER Six Sun Conference All-Academic and four Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athletes

MEN’S BASKETBALL Romello Bates, Leo Behrend, and Gianpaolo Riccio – First Team All-Sun Conference Greenan Sullivan, Jovan Grujicic, and Steven Krusevac – Sun Conference AllAcademic WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Sarah Miller reached 1,000 career points, earned First Team All-Sun Conference and Sun Conference Champion of Character, and was CoSIDA Academic All-District Katie Houbolt – Second Team All-Sun Conference Sarah Miller, Georgia Slay, and Danielle Domino – Academic All-Conference

Sports Updates BASEBALL The AMU baseball team had a successful start to their season with wins over No. 1 Southeastern, No. 6 St. Thomas, No. 18 Webber (twice), and RV Missouri Baptist. In total, AMU has played 14 games against teams ranked or receiving votes in the NAIA Top 25 Coaches’ Poll. The Gyrenes, featuring 14 freshman, are averaging over 4.5 runs per game. SOFTBALL The Ave Maria softball team has played one of the tougher schedules in the country in the first third of their season. The Gyrenes have played seven games against teams ranked or receiving votes in the NAIA Top 25 Coaches’ Poll. The 2019 softball team has 11 freshman on the team, is averaging over 3.5 runs per game, and is led by pitcher Brooke Pierron.

WOMEN’S LACROSSE The Gyrene women’s lacrosse team is off to a successful start to the 2019 season, currently sitting at 5-4 overall. AMU defeated 10th-ranked Tennessee Wesleyan and narrowly fell to 9th ranked Siena Heights. Senior Katelyn Sherman is averaging nearly five goals a game for the Gyrenes to lead the team. MEN’S AND WOMEN’S TENNIS Both the men’s and women’s tennis teams have played the top teams in the conference very competitively. The men’s team has three overall wins while another five competitions came down to the final two singles matches. The women’s team has shown improvement throughout the season. MEN’S AND WOMEN’S GOLF The AMU men’s and women’s golf teams are into the spring portion of their schedule. In the fall, Bianca Vicioso broke her own school record with a 74 (+3) at the Johnson & Wales Tournament. At that same tournament, she broke the 36-hole school record with a two-round total of 155 (+13). Jonah Manning shot two rounds under par and had a fall season best of 69 (-3) at the Johnson & Wales Tournament which tied a school record.

ave ma r ia maga z i ne | ave ma r ia.edu

Coach Awards from Fall-Winter

ATHLETICS UPDATE

Will Tate, Sun Division Offensive Player of the Year, in action

Gyrene Football – Sun Conference Co-Champs

a v e m a r i a m a g a z i n e | s p r i n g 2019

The Gyrenes entered the 2018 football season with both excitement and uncertainty. With only one conference win during the two previous seasons, they had much to overcome. Yet, with nearly half of the starters being freshman, this young team went 5-1 in the Sun Division, including victories against three nationally ranked teams, to become 2018 Co-Champions. The division championship came down to the final home game of the season as the Gyrenes beat Warner University, 31-21, in front of a tremendous crowd. As was the case throughout the season, AMU enjoyed a true home field advantage with the bleachers and areas behind the end zones consistently packed with students, faculty, staff, families, and people from the surrounding community. One of the more notable victories of the season came during AMU’s first ever night game. The evening of October 6, the Gyrenes beat the defending Sun Division Champions, Southeastern University, 23-20. The game was marked by AMU founder, Tom Monaghan, performing the coin toss with members from Ave’s first football class in

attendance. These original players were honored by having the bleachers dedicated in their honor. Not only did these student-athletes perform on the field throughout the season, but the football roster posted its highest cumulative GPA since the inception of the program in 2011. “We set the table for continual success not only on the field, but in the classroom and community,” said junior captain Savohn Hunt. One of the best season’s in AMU football history ended with numerous player recognitions. Of particular note was sophomore quarterback, Will Tate, who became the first AMU player to be named Offensive Player of the Year in the Sun Division. His leadership was a key component in the Gyrenes’ reversal of fortunes. In addition to his throwing ability, Tate was second on the team in rushing. The dual-threat quarterback continually put pressure on the opponents with his accuracy and his ability to extend drives. Coach Patterson was named the Sun Division Coach of the Year in his third season at AMU. He led the Gyrenes to their first championship since 2013 when they were recognized for securing the best record (8-2) of all NAIA football teams that were not part of a conference. “It’s an amazing time to be a Gyrene and I can’t wait to see what else this team can do moving forward,” stated Patterson.

ATHLETICS UPDATE

AMU’s Coach Hiestand Heading to Denver Broncos AMU’s Defensive Coordinator Mike Hiestand accepted a new position with the Denver Broncos as Assistant to the Head Coach/Defensive Quality Control. He will work directly with the new Broncos head coach, Vic Fangio and be involved in all aspects of the Broncos defense. Coach Hiestand was at Ave for three years after having been Head Coach Joe Patterson’s first hire. “Coach Hiestand accomplished a lot during his time at AMU,” said Coach Patterson. “We wish him the best of luck in the NFL.”

Ave Maria University currently fields both men’s and women’s rugby teams. While the men’s team has been organized and playing for several years, this is the first year women’s rubgy has been an official club sport at AMU. Ave participates in this sport as a part of the National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO). AMU’s Rugby program continues to improve at a rapid rate, with a focus on team continuity and player development. The Papists (men’s team) finished the 2018-19 season with a .500 record. The Papists had a large addition of new players which bodes well for a strong start to the coming fall season. The Honey Badgers (women’s team) played their debut match this season and have been proving themselves to be competitive, even against strong, established opponents. With the new introduction of club sport athlete financial aid at AMU, both rugby teams expect to see participation grow which will help ensure future success. “Recent signings such as that of Jillian Gregory will help our program take that next step forward,” commented interim Head Coach Ben Wagner. “We know that both the men’s and women’s squads are eager to get back on the field as soon as possible.”

ave ma r ia maga z i ne | ave ma r ia.edu

Men’s and Women’s Rugby Building for the Future

CAMPUS ACTIVITIES

MUSIC MINISTRY EXPANSION

Since the opening of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel and the addition of 13 Masses on the AMU campus, a need arose for a larger focus on Music Ministry. Ave’s Music Ministry group has expanded to 29 members who are currently separated into six separate music groups playing at all Masses. As the program has grown, the University held its first Music Ministry retreat in late February which offered time for prayer and reflection as well as additional training in areas such as technology, practice techniques, and playing styles for Masses and other events.

a v e m a r i a m a g a z i n e | s p r i n g 2019

VOCATIONS FEST AND MERCY FEST

This year’s annual Vocations Fest and Mercy Fest events were held together in late February. Vocations Fest is a daytime event that provides AMU students with an opportunity to learn about and talk to a variety of vocational organizations. This year’s event featured twenty religious orders and eight missionary groups. That same evening, AMU celebrated the gift of mercy at Mercy Fest. This year’s Mercy Fest featured a student barbeque followed by a concert with well-known Catholic musician Connor Flanagan. The concert transitioned into a period of praise and worship and a Holy Hour to conclude the night. Both events were well attended by students.

MARCH FOR LIFE

On January 18, over 100 students traveled from Ave Maria University to Washington, D.C. to participate in the annual March for Life. President Towey greeted many of the students at the St. John the Beloved Parish school gymnasium where they slept while in D. C. Director of Campus Ministry, Fr. Rick Martignetti, OFM, and Director of Mission Outreach, Scott King, were also in D.C. to support the AMU students and walk alongside them. A group of AMU student pro-life leaders remained in D.C. for a post-walk conference held by Students For Life.

CAMPUS ACTIVITIES

ANNUNCIATION

Over 1,500 students, alumni, faculty, staff, and people from the broader Ave Maria, FL community gathered to celebrate the Annunciation at the University’s annual Feast Day. This year’s event began with a celebratory Mass in the Church and was followed by a large group dinner with entertainment on the campus Mall. The evening concluded with a campus Rosary walk.

FALL AND SPRING RETREATS

Ave Maria University held large student retreats during both academic semesters. The fall AMU retreat, titled “Ascend,” focused on student lessons about being dependent upon God. Over 90 students made the several hour drive to Camp Cloverleaf in central Florida for this retreat. The Spring AMU retreat was titled “Thy Kingdom Come” and focused on student opportunities to pray in different ways. Approximately 120 students attended this retreat featuring teachings on silence, praying with the psalms, and praying with the Mass.

ave ma r ia maga z i ne | ave ma r ia.edu

AMU also offered students the opportunity to attend an outdoor focused retreat during the spring semester. Twelve Ave students made the trip to Moab, Utah for an exciting spiritual week that featured prayer combined with desert backpacking, rock climbing and repelling. The emphasis throughout the retreat was on St. John Paul II’s teachings about “Theology of the Body.”

ALUMNI NEWS

Ave Maria University Forms Inaugural Alumni Leadership Council

ALUMNI LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

CLASS NOTES DAVID SZOSTAK (2008) David passed away in late March following a long battle with a serious lung infection. AMU’s campus community has David, his wife Karly (2009), and their four children in our hearts and prayers. A GOFundMe page has been set up to help pay some of the family’s medical costs.

AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY

a v e m a r i a m a g a z i n e | s p r i n g 2019

In just 15 years, AMU has graduated over

2,000 alumni who represent the University across the nation and the world. Given AMU’s growing alumni population, the Office of Advancement has developed a new Alumni Leadership Council (ALC) to provide guidance for the work intended to ensure that alumni remain an integral component within the University’s future plans. The inaugural ALC members are volunteers selected based upon the impact they have made in their communities, professions, the Church, and the world. Their participation on the ALC will add value to the lives of current and future alumni through improved insights, dialogue, and ideas related to the University and alums. Members of the ALC will meet twice per academic year and will support University efforts to enhance the alumni network. Members will assist in areas such as recruitment of prospective students, career and placement guidance for current students and graduates, and alumni efforts to give back to AMU. The ALC will also play a key role in developing improved alumni engagement events and communications. Members of the inaugural Alumni Leadership Council include: Ms. Valentina Forero (2018) Mr. Andrew P. Nussbaum (2018) Ms. Kathryn Trudeau (2017) Ms. Paula W. Shute (2016) Mr. Christopher Fahey (2014) Ms. Julia A. Sadusky (2013) Mrs. Andrea (Allphin) Serrani (2012) Mr. Brian T. Trymbiski, Jr. (2011) Ms. Marie J. Hartney (2010) Mr. Joseph M. Tompkins (2009) Fr. Rick Pagano (2008)

BRIAN TRYMBISKI (2011) Brian is a Vice President, Investment Officer at Wells Fargo Advisors and came to speak at AMU in February about the current state of the economy, positioning portfolios, and what Ave Finance and Economics majors should be doing to prepare for jobs. Brian is engaged to fiancée Erika (AMU 2013) and the two will marry in June.

JILL (RIORDAN) STRIZ (2015) AND MARY ECKARD (2015) Jill teaches at Village Oaks Elementary and Mary teaches at Highlands Elementary, both schools are in Immokalee, FL. These two graduates won Collier County Golden Apple awards in 2019 and 2018, respectively, for being one of the top teachers in the county across all education levels.

MARKELLE GATELEY (2017) Markelle is an author who recently published a Christian children’s book titled, “Jesus Wants to be Your Buddy” which is available on amazon.com and www. markellebooks.com.

MICHAEL O’DONNELL (2017) AND LIBBY (WELSH) O’DONNELL (2017, 2018 MA) Michael and Libby married this past June. Libby currently works for Admissions at the University and Michael works at The Donahue Academy. The couple is expecting their first child this summer.

JUSTIN GODDE (2018) Justin recently graduated from Navy Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as an Ensign. Justin entered Flight School in Pensacola this past March.

SARAH KOZAK (2018) Sarah recently started a new position at Community Pregnancy Clinics, Inc. as Assistant Regional Clinics Coordinator providing support for CPCI locations in Naples and Fort Myers. Sarah also provides public relations support for the organization.

SEND IN YOUR CLASS NOTES This spring AMU will add another 250 graduates to our alumni family. Alumni are encouraged to stay in touch. Please contact AMU about where you are at in your life and career by emailing: alumni@avemaria.edu or by filling out our online form at https://alumni.avemaria.edu. (Please include your name, graduating class, city/state, contact, and information you wish to update.)

Members of the AMU Drama Club student cabaret cast

UPCOMING KEY DATES APR 3-14

JUL 3 First Day of Summer Session II

Shakespeare In Performance troupe spring performances “The Tempest” and “Macbeth” (visit www.avemaria.edu/ performances for dates and times)

AUG 21

APR 4

AUG 22

Henkels Lecture Series: Dr. John Dilulio, “What Would Madison Do? Refelctions on the Past, Present and Future of American National Government”

APR 18-22

Easter Break

APR 26-MAY 3

Final Exams and End of Spring Semester

MAY 4

Final Exams and End of Summer Session II

New Student Check-in for Fall 2019

AUG 24 Returning Student Check-in for Fall 2019

AUG 26 First Day of Fall Semester

AUG 30 Fall Academic Convocation

Commencement

SEP 7

MAY 8

First Home Football Game

First Day of Summer Session I

JUN 26

Final Exams and End of Summer Session I

Home sports begin August 24, for schedule information visit: avemariagyrenes.com/calendar

Ave Maria University 5050 Ave Maria Blvd. Ave Maria, FL 34142

RAISE YOUR HAND TO JOIN THE FRIENDS OF THE MOTHER TERESA PROJECT AT AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY

BY MAKING A GIFT, YOU PROVIDE THE RESOUCRES NEEDED FOR AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY STUDENTS TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD GOD’S LOVE TO THOSE MOST IN NEED — ONE PERSON AT A TIME. Donate online at https://donate.avemaria.edu/MTP

For more information contact the Office of Advancement at 239-280-2586