Roger Bacon High School Announces Largest Single Gift in School History, Honoring the Legacy of Alumnus Ronald Dauwe ’53

Roger Bacon High School Announces Largest Single Gift in School History, Honoring the Legacy of Alumnus Ronald Dauwe ’53

Historic $2.7 million gift represents an extraordinary investment in the future of Roger Bacon High School.

Roger Bacon High School is proud to announce the receipt of a $2.7 million estate gift from alumnus Ronald “Ron” Dauwe, Class of 1953—the largest single gift in the school’s history. Ron’s generosity was shaped by a distinguished professional career that included decades at Fifth Third Bancorp in Cincinnati. Ron passed away in November 2025, leaving behind a legacy rooted in faith, generosity, and a deep love for the Franciscan mission of Roger Bacon.

This historic gift comes at a pivotal time for the school, following the recent successful conclusion of the We Are the Good Soil capital campaign. Dauwe’s generosity allows Roger Bacon to move beyond the campaign’s goals and will have a lasting impact on the future of Roger Bacon.

A portion has been directed to the school’s endowment, strengthening key programs that form the heart of the Roger Bacon experience, including the Assisi Scholars and San Juan Bautista pilgrimages, student scholarships, faith-based service and immersion opportunities, community-building initiatives, and continued support of the Fine Arts, while also allowing for continued campus modernization.

A lifelong supporter of the school, Dauwe’s impact is already felt across campus. His most visible contribution, the Carol Dauwe Fine Arts Center, opened in 2016 and remains a vibrant hub for student creativity. Ron’s passion for the arts extended far beyond facilities—he endowed multiple scholarships and ensured that all students, regardless of financial circumstances, could attend Fine Arts events at no cost. His commitment also lives on through the Ron & Carol Dauwe Performing Arts Scholarship, helping Roger Bacon attract and develop talented young artists.

President Emeritus and Major Gift Officer Tom Burke ’69 said, “Since meeting Ron, his entire focus was how his involvement might enhance the experience and opportunities for Roger Bacon students. His generosity and dedication to the mission of our school embody the Franciscan spirit felt throughout the halls of Roger Bacon.”

Dauwe was also a dedicated member of the Fr. Andrew Fox Society, Roger Bacon’s planned giving society. His transformative gift stands as a testament to the profound impact of planned giving and the enduring difference it can make for future generations of Spartans.

Established in 1992, the Fr. Andrew Fox Society recognizes individuals who include Roger Bacon High School in their estate plans. Named for former teacher and principal Fr. Andrew Fox, OFM, the society honors those who commit to sustaining the school’s mission of “developing the hearts, minds, and bodies of young men and women in a caring and challenging Franciscan environment.”

“Ron was an incredible man and a proud Spartan whose belief in Roger Bacon and our students was truly inspiring,” said Brandon Spaeth ’11, Advancement Director. “We are incredibly grateful for his commitment to our school over the years and for this historic gift. This moment highlights the vital role of the Fr. Andrew Fox Society and planned giving in sustaining and growing our mission—allowing us to invest in future generations while honoring the legacy of those who love Roger Bacon. Ron’s legacy will live on for generations through the students who will be impacted by this extraordinary gift.”

For more information about the Fr. Andrew Fox Society or planned giving opportunities, please contact Advancement Director Brandon Spaeth ’11 at bspaeth@rogerbacon.org or call 513-641-1300.