Marian University announces new Penny and Jock Fortune Institute for Civic Leadership and Capitalism

At the annual Marian University gala on Friday, October 25, the establishment of the new Penny and Jock Fortune Institute for Civic Leadership and Capitalism was announced. 

The mission of the Fortune Institute for Civic Leadership and Capitalism is to educate a new generation of leaders rooted in free enterprise and America’s founding values. Through dedicated scholarship, the study of America’s founding documents, applied leadership experiences, and robust community engagement, the Institute will equip students with the skills and moral foundation necessary to advance the values of capitalism and civic responsibility. 

“We are deeply grateful to Jock and Penny Fortune for their extraordinary support of Marian University and their commitment to fostering transformative leadership,” said Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener. “The Penny and Jock Fortune Institute for Civic Leadership and Capitalism will inspire and empower our students to become leaders who advance the principles of free enterprise and civic responsibility, guided by the values upon which America was founded.” 

In addition to the creation of the Fortune Institute and hiring a director, this gift will enhance the Richard G. Lugar Franciscan Center of Global Studies. 

Rafael Sanchez from FOX59 returned as the emcee for the evening as the Gala also raised $3.5 million for direct student scholarships and honored several prominent community and business leaders and distinguished alumni. 

• Mike Wells, President of REI Investments, Inc., received the 2024 John A. Purdie Innovator and Mentor of the Year Award. Over the past 25 years Wells has been involved in a number of downtown Indianapolis’ most significant real estate projects including the JW Marriott Hotel, Marriott Place, Circle City Mall, Wellpoint Operation Center, Emmis Communications Headquarters and the Indianapolis Marriott Hotel. 
• Mike and Rebecca Kubacki were honored with the 2024 Franciscan Values Award. As a two-term member of the Indiana General Assembly, Rebecca Kubacki has been a champion for women’s causes, children and human affairs. Mike Kubacki, former CEO of Lake City Bank, has had a distinguished career in the banking industry. 
• Monsignor Joseph Schaedel ’70 was recognized with the 2024 Dillon Family Distinguished Alumni Award. Monsignor Schaedel has served as a long-standing member of Marian’s Board of Trustees and has been a priest of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis for more than 40 years. 

“It is our mission to develop transformational leaders for service to the world and, with the support of our generous alumni and friends, we are able to support our students with the scholarships they need to achieve their higher education goals and lead with purpose and integrity,” said Marian University Chancellor Kenith Britt, Ph.D.  

Nearly 2,000 students, staff, faculty, alumni, supporters, partners, and community members attended the event, including Archbishop Charles C. Thompson from the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, who delivered the opening prayer. Marian University’s sponsor, the Sisters of Saint Francis, Oldenburg, Ind., sang the closing benediction – a time-honored tradition at the event.