Notre Dame Prep of Sacred Heart University Receives Huge Donation From Martire Family

FAIRFIELD, CT — Notre Dame Prep of Sacred Heart University in Fairfield has received a $3 million gift from alumni Frank and Marisa Martire, the largest donation in the Catholic high school’s history, school officials announced Monday.

The donation will support modernization of classrooms and facilities, campus improvements and other institutional upgrades, according to the school. The previous largest gift to Notre Dame Prep was $500,000 in 1999.

Head of School Chris Cipriano informed faculty and staff of the donation Sunday, and the news was shared with students Monday morning. The announcement was met with cheers, school officials said, followed by a free pizza lunch and an extra day off for students to mark the occasion.

"It’s hard to imagine what a gift of this magnitude will do for Notre Dame Prep," said Hannah Reyna, student council president and member of the senior class on behalf of the students. "We all thank you from the bottom of our hearts. I look forward to coming back after I graduate to see the changes. I am already proud to be a Notre Dame student and that you think enough of our school to provide this gift makes me even prouder. Thank you very much, Mr. and Mrs. Martire."

The presentation also included remarks from Cipriano, Sacred Heart University President John J. Petillo and the Martires. Afterward, the Martires hosted a luncheon with students to discuss their motivations for the gift and hear from students about their school experiences.

Frank Martire graduated from Notre Dame in 1965 and from Sacred Heart University in 1969. He said the couple’s decision to donate was influenced by the schools’ focus on moral and ethical development as well as academics.

"We made a clear decision to give back," Frank Martire said, noting that while much of their philanthropy has supported Sacred Heart University, contributing to the high school offered an opportunity to support the local community more directly.

Added Marisa Martire, "Caring about the student means caring about the whole student."

Sacred Heart University formally acquired Notre Dame Prep from the Diocese of Bridgeport last year. Petillo said the donation reflects the couple’s belief in the value of education and the need for modern facilities.

"Both Sacred Heart and Notre Dame Prep are blessed by the generosity of Frank and Marisa," Petillo said. "They understand the importance a good education plays in future success, and they appreciate that learning at Notre Dame and Sacred Heart includes grounding in the mission, values and guiding principles of each institution. They also realize the need for up-to-date facilities and equipment in today’s ever-changing environment. This gift exemplifies all of that, and we are very grateful."

Cipriano said the funds will support renovations intended to enhance both academic and student well-being resources.

"This gift from Frank and Marisa Martire is more than generosity," Cipriano said. "It's a statement. It tells the students of Notre Dame Prep — past, present and for generations to come — that their worth is invaluable."