Tom Donohue, a longstanding and cherished member of Marymount University’s Board of Trustees, passed away last week. As the community mourns his loss, the institution’s leaders are reflecting on his lasting impact made through decades of dedicated service, unwavering generosity and visionary leadership.
Donohue’s first tenure on the Board began in 1992, with encouragement from the longest-serving President in the University’s history, Sister Majella Berg. He spent the next 20 years as a Marymount trustee, shaping the institution’s trajectory and playing an instrumental role in significant milestones that include the acquisition of what is now the Ballston Center campus. He recently returned to the Board for a second tenure by invitation from current President Irma Becerra, continuing his deep commitment to Marymount. He also served the University as an Executive in Residence, sharing his vast knowledge and leadership experience with students and faculty.
“Tom was a visionary leader who brought invaluable experience and insight to Marymount,” President Becerra said. “His dedication to our students, his belief in our mission and his steadfast guidance have left an indelible mark on our community. He was a devoted Catholic, dedicated family man, loyal friend and committed philanthropist. It was very important for him to leave the world a better place than how he found it. Personally, I found him to be a source of constant inspiration – a true partner in our efforts to move the University forward. His wisdom and generosity will be greatly missed, but his influence and legacy will live on.”
Donohue’s commitment to Marymount went beyond his trustee role. His philanthropic generosity over multiple decades supported the University’s growth, including through comprehensive capital campaigns and the ‘Marymount 100’ scholarship effort. In recognition of his exceptional service to the University, he was awarded the Saint of Service Award for Outstanding Community Member at Marymount’s inaugural Halo Awards ceremony in 2021, one of the highest honors the institution bestows.
“A stalwart of Marymount’s Board of Trustees, Tom was someone who brought energy and compassion into every conversation,” explained Peter Converse, Chair of Marymount’s Board of Trustees. “His years of leadership and business acumen were matched only by his deep care for the University and its students. His passing is a tremendous loss, and we will always be grateful for his service, friendship and integrity.”
“I met Tom on my first day working at Marymount, and over a very short period of time he became a valued mentor and friend,” added Dennis Slon, Vice President for University Advancement at Marymount University. “He truly was one of the most extraordinary people I’ve ever known — smart, intuitive, compassionate and tough. He made me better, and he made Marymount better. We are truly fortunate to have had him in our lives, and we will miss him.”
Donohue’s career was marked by transformative leadership, most notably in his role as President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce from 1997 to 2019. During that time, he built one of the most influential advocacy organizations in the country as he fostered economic growth and expanded opportunities for American businesses, cementing his status as a visionary leader in the global business community.
“It is no exaggeration to say he resurrected the Chamber, taking the institution from good to great and from productive to powerful – and standing up for business from the nation’s capital to every corner of the globe,” read the official statement posted to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s website. “He never backed down from a fight that was necessary for a cause he believed in, leading the American business community and building the Chamber into the largest and most effective business organization in the world. He did it with high energy and absolute integrity, always keeping his promises and keeping his word. Tom’s mantra was simple: ‘If you can, you must.’”
Before his tenure at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Donohue served for 13 years as President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, where he was a staunch advocate for the trucking industry and worked to expand its influence on national transportation policy. Earlier in his career, he held several formative roles that included deputy assistant postmaster general of the United States and vice president of development at Fairfield University in Connecticut.
Donohue’s passion for service extended to veterans and the military community. A cause close to his heart, he was a strong advocate for supporting those who served and believed in the importance of providing opportunities and resources to help veterans transition into successful civilian careers. This was exemplified through his work in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program.
Born in New York City, Donohue earned a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and an M.B.A. from Adelphi University. He was also recognized with honorary degrees from several institutions, including both of his alma maters, Marymount, Bradley University, Pepperdine University and the National University of Ireland at Maynooth.
