We are forever Marianist
While some universities grapple with their mission and identity in our rapidly changing world, we know who we are. We are forever Marianist.
While some universities grapple with their mission and identity in our rapidly changing world, we know who we are.
We are forever Marianist.
The University of Dayton began with a simple act of faith — and no small amount of moxie. In 1850, Father Leo Meyer, S.M., dreamed of starting a school but didn’t have the $12,000 asking price for Dewberry Farm. Instead, he offered landowner John Stuart a St. Joseph’s medal as his promise of repayment.
From a small, private boarding school for boys carved out of that fertile farmland 175 years ago (see stories starting on Page 34), UD has grown into a pre-eminent Catholic university — one that holds steadfast to the Marianist values of faith, community and service to others.
We are forever Marianist.
I see faith in action when we annually welcome new Marianist Educational Associates and honor Lackner Award recipients for modeling what it means to live lives of deep faith and meaning. These lay collaborators, reminiscent of the inclusive group Blessed William Joseph Chaminade brought together when the religious order was founded in the wake of the French Revolution, are striving to keep the founding philosophy central to campus life during an age of fewer vowed religious.
We are forever Marianist.
I see community in action — honestly, everywhere. It’s in the small gestures, like holding doors open for one another, and in the larger efforts to ensure everyone has a seat at the table. It’s why the University has intentionally purchased hundreds of homes in the student neighborhoods, creating a close-knit, small-town ambiance, complete with welcoming front porches. The Marianists live next door to students, and one community always has an extra plate at its renowned weekly spaghetti dinners, where all are invited for food and fellowship.
We are forever Marianist.
I see service in action during Christmas on Campus, a beloved tradition that stretches back more than 60 years. For one magical night, our students transform campus into a winter wonderland, host a thousand “buddies” from the Dayton Public Schools and share with them the true spirit of giving. UD’s Center for Social Concern sponsors more than 40 student service and social justice clubs — a reflection of our Marianist values.
“When we are at our best, we are a caring community,” says Father Jim Fitz, S.M. ’68, longtime vice president of mission and rector.
As we celebrate UD’s 175th anniversary, we celebrate that spirit. All of us in the UD community are stewards of a rich religious tradition that values faith, relationships and a deep commitment to serving others.
We are forever Marianist.
A version of this article appears in print in the Summer 2025 University of Dayton Magazine, Page 6. EXPLORE THE ISSUE — MORE ONLINE