Leaders of Loyola Blakefield announced Feb. 22 that Patrick and Michele Connor have committed to a $5 million gift to the Jesuit school in Towson. Two new endowed funds will be created, with $1.5 million providing a new need-based scholarship for incoming students and $3.5 million establishing an endowed fund designated to support faculty and staff compensation, according to a Feb. 22 news release.
Patrick Connor is a 1977 alumnus of Loyola Blakefield. He and his wife are parents of four sons who graduated from the school.
The Connor family has additionally contributed $2.5 million to major capital projects, including the newly constructed Bolte-Breschi Athletic Complex. Their support resulted in three naming opportunities: Joseph C. Connor ’42 Field, Michael T. Keeney ’65 Field, and Veterans Park, according to the release.
The scholarship fund will further enable Loyola to increase access and affordability, the school said, helping extend the opportunity to “experience a Jesuit education to as many qualified students as possible, regardless of income status.”
“This bold and generous investment by the Connor family will enable us to flexibly and creatively invest in recruiting and retaining the region’s most qualified and committed faculty and staff for years to come,” said Anthony Day, Loyola’s president.
A U.S. Navy veteran, Patrick Connor has more than 35 years experience in the environmental engineering and consulting industry, founding and leading companies that are nationally recognized for technical expertise and service. Patrick and Michele currently split their time between Maryland and Mount Pleasant, S.C.
“We have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the difference that a Loyola education has on young men,” Patrick Connor said. “They gain knowledge, skills and a readiness for life and learning that is unrivaled. But beyond that, they receive an experience that values spiritual growth, strength of character and a lifelong commitment to serving others. We can’t imagine a better investment than in a place where young people are guided by role models who not only impart strong values but demonstrate them in their daily lives.”
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