Special to the Message
Evansville’s Mater Dei and Reitz Memorial High Schools recently announced the public launch of two transformative capital campaigns aimed at shaping the future of Catholic secondary education in the Diocese of Evansville.
“Both Mater Dei and Reitz Memorial share a proud legacy of faith formation, academic excellence and outreach to the community,” Bishop Joseph M. Siegel said. “These campaigns are bold steps toward ensuring that future generations of students continue to encounter Christ, receive a first-rate Catholic education, and go forth as missionary disciples to serve our world with compassion and purpose.”
Reitz Memorial High School: Centennial Campaign: Igniting Faith, Building Futures
Reitz Memorial’s Centennial Campaign seeks to raise $12 million, with more than $11 million already pledged during its leadership phase. The campaign will fund projects that enhance academic excellence, support faculty development, strengthen spiritual formation, invest in campus facilities and ensure long-term affordability through tuition assistance and endowment growth.
Major projects include a new Student Learning Commons, renovated chapel, upgraded classrooms and air conditioning for the main and auxiliary gyms, as well as the creation of a Health Sciences Center and Athletic Pavilion.
“We are humbled by the generosity already shown by our alumni, parents and friends,” said Josh Reising, President of Reitz Memorial. “The Centennial Campaign honors 100 years of tradition while building the foundation for the next century of faith-filled leaders. This moment is truly transformative for our school community.”
Honorary co-chairs for the Reitz Memorial campaign include Robbie and Marguerite Kent, Dennis and Catherine Ann Lamey, Jim and Mary Kay Muehlbauer, and Bill and Mary Ellen Vieth, Sr., with JP Engelbrecht and Tony Fehrenbacher serving as co-chairs.
Mater Dei High School: Growing in Grace
Mater Dei’s Growing in Grace campaign has set a goal of $17.5 million, with nearly $15.5 million pledged to date. Rooted in the themes Transform – Elevate – Enrich, the campaign focuses on academic innovation, spiritual growth, student life and modern facilities that serve the whole student — mind, body and spirit.
Key projects include a new multi-purpose Activity Center with dedicated band and athletic training spaces, a renovated chapel designed for greater reverence and capacity, a secure front entry addition, and a science, career and technology classroom to strengthen STEM and work-based learning. The campaign also funds a six-lane track, parking expansion and a campus maintenance reserve for long-term sustainability.
“Mater Dei’s Growing in Grace campaign represents the next chapter in our mission to empower students for lives of faith, leadership and service,” said Deacon Dan Niemeier, President of Mater Dei. “These projects will transform our campus and ensure Mater Dei continues to thrive for generations to come.”
Mater Dei’s honorary co-chairs are Father David Nunning and Ira and Terry Boots, with Matt and Kristen Folz and Steve and Rita Moore serving as co-chairs.
“These parallel efforts reflect the vitality of Catholic education in our diocese,” Bishop Siegel added. “Both schools are building on their strong traditions to form students to be the future leaders in our Church and community.”
For more information, contact: Reitz Memorial Director of Advancement Brie Elmendorf at 812-303-0014, or Mater Dei Director of Advancement Mallory Hertel at 812-426-2258.