The Michele Mooney Endowed Visual Arts Program would allow the Art Department to secure the resources, in perpetuity, necessary for a transformational experience for our art students. Creating a state-of-the-art program with dedicated funding would also allow for updates to our current art facility. With a strong Visual Arts Program, U of D Jesuit would have the ability to enhance the overall educational experience by fostering students' creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through the creative arts.  

The endowment would initially begin with purchasing new printers, display cases, and drafting tables. Resources would become available to ensure quality materials and supplies are available to students. Additionally, it would allow us to expand our course offerings to align with a college prep level, preparing students for study and careers in the field of Art & Design.

Overall, an Endowed Visual Arts Program is essential for the development of the next generation of artists and for the enrichment of the U of D Jesuit community.

ABOUT MICHELE MOONEY

Michele Mooney taught art at U of D Jesuit for more than 35 years. She was passionate about teaching her students the beauty and power of art. This was fueled by her belief that art had the ability to transcend socio-economic and cultural barriers. While at U of D Jesuit, she was a dedicated teacher and used her extensive knowledge and experience to instill a love for the arts in her students. She was always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that her students had the resources and support they needed to succeed. Michele’s passion for art and teaching left a lasting impact on the students she taught and the school community as a whole.

There’s a great deal of “Maroon & White” in Michele's family. Her father, John Allen, Sr., was a graduate of The High in 1938. Her brothers were also Cubs: John '66, Louis '72, Thomas '76, and Robert '77. Plus her two sons are alumni, with John graduating in 1987 and Brian in 1998.