Supporters

Every question and comment we receive regarding new initiatives give us critical insight into how alumni, students, parents and friends of the University perceive the University's objectives. Below you'll find comments from some of our alumni leaders. We invite you to share your perspective by using the provided feedback form.

Katie Jennrich '10

The Immaculate Conception Chapel at the University of Dayton will forever hold a special place in my heart. The chapel is more than just a building; it is at the heart of the Catholic faith on campus for many students including myself.

The chapel has always been warm and inviting, a place where I can find peace. And yet, it is not the structural building that gives me comfort, but the message it provides. In the chapel, I come to encounter Christ in a real, physical way and to participate in a community that includes and transcends the boundaries of this earth.

I am excited to see the work of so many dedicated people come to fruition with the chapel renovation and expansion. I see this project as a continuation of the vision of the University’s founders and a glimpse into the future as the University grows and develops within the Dayton community and the Marianist family.

For my experience at the University of Dayton, the chapel has been a testament of faith and a place of joy. When I see the blue dome of the chapel as I come back to campus each semester, I know that I am home.

Katie Jennrich ’10,
Student member of the chapel

Brother Raymond L. Fitz, S.M. '64

The Chapel has always been the heart of campus. It’s not just our logo. It’s a powerful symbol. When people come into this space, they remember the deep connection this University has to the sacred. Throughout generations, this place has connected us in times of despair and joy.

As a youngster, I made my first visit to the chapel with my father. Years later, as president, I remember feeling profoundly moved by the number of people who attended Athletic Director Tom Frericks’ wake. He touched the lives of so many people. Just recently, the chapel was the place were I celebrated 50 years of Marianist life — 45 of those on this campus.

The chapel holds so much meaning to me and countless others who have found gifts of faith, hope and love within its walls. This is the place where students linger between classes and alumni return to spend a few moments to think about their journey through the University of Dayton.

We will take one of the most beautiful and beloved buildings on campus and retain its historical character while improving the liturgical space. We will not change the chapel’s motif. That’s a touchstone and the foundation of our faith.

We are shaping the future of the University of Dayton. It’s a future tied to the past, rooted deeply in faith and tradition.

Brother Raymond L. Fitz, S.M. ’64
Father Ferree Professor of Social Justice and Past President, University of Dayton (1979-2002)