GOING STRONG 15 Years of Growth at AMU
President Towey unveiling the plaque for the Thomas and Selby Prince building
Dedication of the
Thomas and Selby Prince Building
a v e m a r i a m a g a z i n e | f a l l 2018
After nearly two years of design and construction, the dream
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of a new multi-purpose building became a reality when the Thomas and Selby Prince building was dedicated on September 17th before a large crowd of AMU students, faculty members, trustees and area residents. The dedication ceremony included speeches by AMU trustee Tom Prince before the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, as well as by founder Tom Monaghan and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Michael Timmis. Bishop Frank Dewane blessed the building and led the gathering in solemn prayer, shortly after Student Government President Mary Rexroat led the assembled in the pledge of allegiance. The following are excerpts of the speech that AMU President Jim Towey gave on this historic occasion: For our students who may not know Tom and Selby Prince, they have been part of the Ave Maria family for over a decade, and Tom has been a trustee for almost six years.
(l to r) Patrick and Michelle Olson, Selby, Thomas and Joseph Prince
Tom and Selby have a fascinating story. They met during their college years, got married, Tom joined the US Army in 1967 and served in the Vietnam War, and then went on to build a very successful network of hotels, restaurants and other businesses, while she raised their family. They’ve been married for 54 years, and now, their fine family name is joined to ours. We are happy to have their children Michelle and Joe with us, along with Michelle’s husband Patrick, and we are mindful of the seven grandchildren who comprise the marvelous Prince clan. Today marks another stage in the gestation of this University that in one sense rests in the womb of Our Lady, for we are in the process of becoming what God wishes to birth in Catholic higher education. This building and its multiple uses represent a major development in our young life, and owes to the kindness of so many. On the Solemnity of the Pentecost, Pope Francis spoke of how the Holy Spirit “inspires wholehearted generosity.” He added, “The Spirit keeps our hearts young.” Tom and Selby have such young hearts. His Holiness cautioned about those who “find shelter from the wind of the Spirit.” He said, “When we live for self-preservation and keep close to home, it is not a good sign. The Spirit blows, but we lower our sails. And yet, how often have we seen him work wonders!” My friends, you are standing in front of one such wonder, thanks to two people who ventured out from home and raised their sails when the Spirit blew and moved their young hearts. And they were not alone. Many others contributed mightily to pay for this building which is fully paid for, including others gathered here today. Our debt to our donors, to Manhattan Construction, and to those who labored in the sweltering heat or driving rain to shape these bricks and mortar, is great.
