.png&w=384&q=75){kind=small}
Some gifts go more than fund education; they shape souls. Here we celebrate four benefactors whose generosity reflects the heart of the Gospel and fuels the mission of Ave Maria University. Because of generous AMU donors, students' lives are shaped—in wisdom, in virtue, and in leadership.
Bea Sanford
AMU Ambassador and Benefactor
“My husband and I are proud to support Ave Maria University both through annual giving and in our estate. AMU is a true gift to the Church and a beacon of hope in our world today. By forming young men and women in intellect and virtue, Ave Maria University is preparing leaders our culture so desperately needs.”
Frank & Tricia Hallinan
AMU Parents and Benefactors
“Our son blossomed at AMU. He got every minute out of every day. He was the most joyous he'd ever been in his entire life while at AMU. He'd bring his teammates and friends to our home, and we couldn't believe how happy all his AMU friends were. His decision to attend AMU was the best college decision any of our five children made. We cannot get over how much AMU positively affected our son's life. The AMU faculty have great relationships with the students and take such an interest in teaching and mentoring him.”
An Interview with Lois Pence
Ave Maria University Benefactor
The first thing one notices about Lois Pence is her radiant joy and twinkling eyes.
“I fell in love with Ave Maria University,” Lois said with a smile.
Of particular significance to Lois, a former teacher, is her profound love of education—in the Academy. She is a member of the Academy of Catholic Scholars and Artists at AMU. The Academy is dedicated to sparking renewed interest and discussion about the artistic and intellectual traditions of the Catholic Church.
“Mrs. Lois Pence is an inspiration; she simply radiates energy, virtue, and joy,” said Gerard Boersma, Professor of Theology at AMU. “Through my work with the Academy, I have gotten to know Lois as a wonderfully kind, passionately engaged, and enormously generous benefactor whose presence at our Academy meetings adds tremendously.”
— Gerard Boersma, Professor of Theology
Lois and her late husband, John Pence, were never able to have children, but one can say with confidence that Lois' maternal and joyful heart has spread into future generations of students. She freely gives her love and wisdom to all those who encounter her teaching, philanthropy, and heart for education. But her heart is shared most especially by simply getting to know her.
Her love for AMU is reflected in her varied acts of generosity across several projects, which include classroom scholarships, the Saint Leonard Greenhouse, and more.
Reflecting on her multiple avenues of generosity toward AMU, Lois said simply, with a twinkle in her eyes, “It's worth it.”
Join Our Community of Benefactors
Your generosity shapes the lives of students and fuels the mission of Ave Maria University. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a lasting difference.