HERITAGE CLUB MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: MICHAEL R. AND LANITA SHEA

“The Lord loves a cheerful giver.” This is a saying that Mike Shea has always appreciated, and in fact has exemplified through his generous support of Catholic education.

Mike states that he is “firm in my belief that a Catholic education is essential in developing a child’s intellect while at the same time providing a firm moral foundation, both of which are much needed in our world today.” Mike himself was gifted with a strong foundation in Catholic education, educated by Franciscan nuns and Augustinian priests. His family has also been blessed with religious vocations; two of his uncles were priests.

Mike’s relationship with Aquinas College began in 2003, when he was invited to serve as a member of the campus investment committee. Mike graciously agreed to share his gifts with the sisters for the good of Catholic education, with a particular focus on developing the stewardship of planned giving.

In addition to his contributions of time and expertise, Mike has also committed to a planned gift, making Aquinas College a beneficiary of his Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Mike is a solid believer in stewardship and that each person must do his or her part. He and his wife Lanita plan to disburse their modest estate after they have finished their earthly sojourn, and they hope that Catholic education will benefit as a result of their generosity.

Mike believes strongly that every child has the right to a quality Catholic education. Why? He has seen the results of a Catholic education. Embracing a deeply Thomistic mindset, Michael comments: “Life is simpler if one knows where they are going. Start with the end in mind. Do this and most everything falls into place.” Catholic schools form students with the end in mind, knowing that in reality they are preparing young souls to become saints. Mike’s planned gift to Aquinas College will serve to support the formation of teachers who will in turn have the opportunity to form and touch the lives of countless students in Catholic schools throughout the country and throughout the world. This “ripple effect” in lives touched by a single planned gift has the potential to touch tens of thousands of students through many years into the future.

Mike and Lanita celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2020. They have three sons and daughters-in-law, as well as nine grandchildren.