Ave Maria University: Comprehensive Company Profile

Background

Overview

Ave Maria University (AMU) is a private Catholic institution located in Ave Maria, Florida. Established in 2003, AMU is dedicated to providing a liberal arts education rooted in Catholic tradition. The university's mission is to form future generations of Catholic men and women faithful to the Magisterium of the Church.

Mission and Vision

AMU aims to restore the splendor and fidelity of Catholic higher education, assisting Catholic youth in strengthening their faith and discovering their unique call to holiness.

Campus and Location

The university's campus spans approximately 1,000 acres in the town of Ave Maria, Florida, situated 17 miles east of Naples in rural Collier County. The campus features the Ave Maria Oratory, a prominent Gothic-inspired structure serving as the parish church.

Key Strategic Focus

Academic Programs

AMU offers 33 undergraduate and three graduate degrees, including M.A. and Ph.D. programs in theology. The undergraduate curriculum emphasizes a core set of courses in philosophy, theology, composition, science, math, history, political science, and foreign languages.

Student Demographics

As of fall 2023, AMU enrolled approximately 1,300 undergraduate students. The student body is diverse, with representation from 15 different foreign countries.

Athletics

The university's athletic teams, known as the Gyrenes, compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) within The Sun Conference. AMU fields 24 intercollegiate varsity sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse.

Financials and Funding

Revenue and Expenses

For the fiscal year ending June 2023, AMU reported revenues of $72,587,422 and expenses of $70,134,466, resulting in a net income of $2,452,956. The university's net assets stood at $186,112,259.

Sources of Revenue

Contributions: $19,912,152 (27.4% of total revenue)

Program Services: $50,552,284 (69.6%)

Investment Income: $1,271,021 (1.8%)

Expenses

Executive Compensation: $2,510,144 (3.6% of total expenses)

Other Salaries and Wages: $14,103,366 (20.1%)

Leadership Team

President: Mark Middendorf

Appointed in 2023, Middendorf brings extensive experience in Catholic education and leadership.

Provost: Roger Nutt

Oversees academic affairs and curriculum development.

Chancellor: Tom Monaghan

Founder of AMU and former owner of Domino's Pizza, Monaghan continues to play a significant role in the university's strategic direction.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

AMU operates within the private Catholic higher education sector, competing with institutions that offer similar faith-based liberal arts programs. The market is characterized by a commitment to Catholic teachings, liberal arts education, and a focus on forming students in faith and academics.

Competitor Analysis

Franciscan University of Steubenville

Located in Steubenville, Ohio, this university is known for its strong Catholic identity and comprehensive liberal arts programs.

Christendom College

Based in Front Royal, Virginia, Christendom offers a curriculum centered on Catholic tradition and the liberal arts.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

AMU is a member of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida (ICUF), a voluntary association of 30 private colleges and universities in Florida. This affiliation provides opportunities for collaboration, resource sharing, and advocacy within the state's higher education landscape.

Operational Insights

Accreditation

AMU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), allowing it to award bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The university's commitment to academic excellence and adherence to Catholic teachings distinguish it within the higher education sector.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

AMU continues to focus on expanding its academic offerings, enhancing campus facilities, and increasing enrollment while maintaining its Catholic identity. The university's location in a growing community presents opportunities for development and outreach.