Ave Maria University began as a dream in the mind of our founder, Tom S. Monaghan, to restore Catholic higher education amid an age of secularism, progressivism and even doctrinal divergence in Catholic institutions. The goal of AMU was simple: to build the foundation of a truly Catholic university that would form future generations of truly Catholic men and women faithful to the Magisterium of the Church.
After an initial $250 million donation from our founder and a generous land donation from the Barron Collier Family in Southwest Florida, the dream began to take shape.
In 2003, by decree of the Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida, AMU became the first new Catholic university since 1963. We took the mottos “Ex Corde Ecclesiae” (From the Heart of the Church) and “Veritatis Splendor” (The Splendor of Truth).
Our beautiful Florida campus soon became recognized as an ideal location to obtain a higher education that was faithful to the tenets of the Catholic Church. Whether students focused on theology or marine biology, they could rely on a college experience infused with values that create strong leaders in and out of the classroom.
Ave Maria University continues its mission to restore the splendor and fidelity of Catholic higher education and assist Catholic youth in strengthening their faith and discovering their unique call to holiness.
Learn about our Catholic Identity and how it influences everything we do at AMU.
The sunny atmosphere of our Southwest Florida campus is matched only by the welcoming nature of our faculty, administration and students. You’ll find beautiful locations to study, pray and recreate. See for yourself what makes Ave Maria University the right place to discover your calling.
5050 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria, FL 34142
