Ave Maria University President Jim Towey reportedly told faculty, staff and University supporters in an end-of-year message that the faithful Catholic college had a good year in 2012, but things look even better for the future.

Towey said 2012 was a banner year in that there were a record number of students on campus, and he said he aimed to double that number within the next four years. Towey said that interest in Ave Maria is on the rise with applications for admission next fall up 50% from this time a year ago. He forecasts a 17% increase in the size of the entering class in the fall.

He also said that Ave Maria had a goal of financial indendence from founder Tom Monaghan within the next 18 months. AMU will also seek to increase financial aid, raise salaries for staff and faculty, and increase funding for instruction by almost 60% by 2016.

“I am confident,” Mr. Towey said, “that with the grace of God, prayers of the Blessed Mother, and hard work of all of us, we can achieve our goals and advance our Catholic mission.”

Ave Maria University is recommended in the latest Newman Guide.

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