The Donahue Family Blackbox Theatre

As Tom Monaghan initially considered moving Ave Maria University from Michigan to Naples, businessman and friend Jack Donahue was the first person he consulted. Jack was the founder of Pittsburgh, PA-based Federated Investors and a Naples philanthropist. “I can’t think of anybody in this country I more admire,” Monaghan said. Jack and his wife, Rhodora, were committed to Catholic education and believed in Tom’s vision of Ave Maria University.

The close connection between Jack Donahue and Ave Maria University received visible and permanent expression last spring when the new Blackbox Theatre was dedicated in Jack and his family’s honor in a brief ceremony attended by Rhodora and other family members, prior to an inaugural Shakespeare performance.

Jack Donahue passed away on May 11, 2017 at the age of 92. He is survived by 13 children, 84 grandchildren, and 122 great grandchildren – and counting! Jack’s commitment to Ave Maria University and Catholic education has created a lasting legacy that will continue to thrive at AMU for generations to come.