ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y. — St. Bonaventure University alumnus John M. Deignan, '65, decided he wanted to make an impact not just in the future, but right now.
Deignan, a former Wall Street executive, has made a $1,000,000 commitment to the university's Bolder Bonaventure campaign.
Though he previously allocated this amount to the university in his estate, Deignan was inspired by St. Bonaventure's plans for a new Athletics Performance Center and decided to gift $500,000 of that $1 million now.
"I've accelerated my gift due to the exciting, upward trajectory of the university," Deignan said. "I am thrilled to help generate even more momentum. It's my way of honoring the strong educational foundation I received at the university and the success it has helped make possible in my lifetime."
John M. Deignan, '65
The planned $15 million Athletics Performance Center (APC) will impact all of St. Bonaventure's nearly 400 student-athletes. The APC will feature a 10,000-square-foot strength and conditioning center that will be utilized by all teams. It will provide a competitive boost for student-athlete recruitment and development. The other half of the APC will contain a major upgrade for the men's and women's basketball programs in the form of a practice gymnasium, new locker rooms, meeting spaces and coaches' offices.
Deignan, a native of Long Island, enjoyed a career in the financial services industry before retiring in his 50s. He attributes his accomplishments to "God, family and school," adding that a lifetime of saving and investing has led to this moment.
"Mr. Deignan's tremendous gift illustrates the power of dedication and perseverance," said Dr. Jeff Gingerich, university president. "Through his bold vote of confidence, the tradition of championship-caliber athletics will continue at St. Bonaventure."
"We are extremely grateful for John's generosity and his willingness to adjust his estate plans," said Director of Athletics Joe Manhertz. "This gift will impact all 380-plus student-athletes now and will go on for generations. We hope that John's leadership will inspire others to follow as we begin to transform our athletics facilities to help us become even more competitive in the Atlantic 10 Conference. As the landscape of the NCAA shifts, it is important we expand our investment in all things that benefit the student-athlete experience at SBU."
In recognition of the gift, the main lobby of the Reilly Center will be named in honor of Deignan.
To learn more about the Athletics pillar of the Bolder Bonaventure campaign, please visit GoBonnies.com/BolderBonaventure.
