College of Arts and Sciences Newsroom

After 22 years at the University of Dayton, Maura Donahue ’90, associate dean for finance and administration in the College of Arts and Sciences, has accepted a new position at Ohio Wesleyan University, effective June 1.

Donahue, a two-time graduate of UD, began her career at the University of Dayton in 1998 as a lecturer in the Department of Economics and Finance, and later held a lecturer position in the Department of Religious Studies. From 2001 to 2011, she served as founding director of the University’s Program for Christian Leadership, funded by the Lilly Endowment’s $2 million grant for the Theological Exploration of Vocation. As director, she developed the Chaminade Scholars program prior to its transition to the University Honors Program, and the summer program for incoming first-year students, now housed in Campus Ministry and known as “Callings.”

Donahue served as the College’s director of budget and operations for six years, before being appointed associate dean in July 2018.

“Maura is an adaptive, creative leader and trusted colleague to me and so many at the University,” said Jason Pierce, College of Arts and Sciences dean. “I value her skills with numbers and complex projects, of course, but also her deep commitment to our mission. I congratulate her on this new opportunity and know Ohio Wesleyan University will benefit from the breadth of her abilities and experiences, as we have over many years.”

During her time in the dean’s office, she provided leadership for the College budget process, the transition to electronic procurement and the implementation of the University’s new chart of accounts. She worked behind the scenes to support the creation of the Hanley Sustainability Institute and the Human Rights Center. She also facilitated a number of capital improvement projects, including significant renovations to the University Science Center.

Donahue serves the Dayton community as a member of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company board of directors. Previously, she served on the board of the Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning.

In her new position as vice president for finance and administration and treasurer at Ohio Wesleyan, Donahue will report to President Rockwell “Rock” Jones and oversee business and financial management; strategic financial planning; investments; financial systems; risk management; human resources; facilities management and construction; dining services and bookstore operations. As treasurer to the board of trustees, she will work closely with the board’s finance committee, as well as with the facilities, investment and audit subcommittees.

“I have learned so much from the faculty and staff at Dayton, and I have benefited greatly from the many opportunities that have been afforded to me,” Donahue said. “I will always be grateful to the members of the UD community for the trust they placed in me as I took on new roles in administration. I will definitely miss many friends at UD, but I am excited to be able to share what I have learned here to help another great liberal arts institution work toward its mission of preparing students with knowledge and character for lives of leadership and service in an increasingly complex, global society.”

Donahue received a bachelor’s degree in finance in 1990 and a master’s degree in theological studies in 2011, both from the University of Dayton. She holds an MBA and doctoral degree in finance, both from the University of Cincinnati.

Donahue will work with College leaders to ensure a smooth transition.