The Grace Center for Faith and Community Announced

Le Moyne is proud to announce the creation of the Grace Center for Faith and Community, a new space made possible through a generous gift to the College’s Panasci Family Chapel by longtime supporters Katherine “Kathy” Grace Purcell ’66 and her late husband John Purcell ’65. The center is named in honor of Kathy’s parents, Thomas and Catherine Grace, who instilled in their children the importance of Catholic faith and a college education.

This gift is the latest in a series of transformative contributions from the Purcells, whose connection to Le Moyne spans more than six decades. From meeting on campus in the 1960s to becoming steadfast champions of Jesuit education, the Purcells’ impact has shaped the College’s trajectory in remarkable ways.

“My parents made tremendous sacrifices so my brother Tom and I could attend college,” said Kathy Purcell. “Although they were not college graduates themselves – my father earned a GED – they deeply believed in the value of education and the strength of our Catholic faith. Because of their support, I was able to attend Le Moyne, where I received some of my greatest gifts: a Jesuit education, lifelong friendships and my wonderful husband, John. This gift celebrates the foundations – faith and education – that my parents worked so hard to provide.”

The Grace Center for Faith and Community will serve as a welcoming space for students, faculty and the greater community to explore, reflect and connect through shared spiritual and service experiences. It reflects the Purcells’ enduring belief that faith and community are essential pillars of personal and professional fulfillment.

“Through this act of generosity, Kathy has created a lasting space for reflection, connection and growth,” said Le Moyne President Linda LeMura. “The Grace Center beautifully honors her family legacy while enriching the spiritual and communal life of our campus.”

“The Purcells have helped shape the heart of this institution – not just through their philanthropy, but through the values they live by: humility, generosity and an unwavering belief in the power of education and faith,” said Jim Joseph ’83, Ed.D. ’23, vice president for advancement and innovation and dean of the Madden College of Business and Economics. “The Grace Center is a beautiful tribute to their family history and those values.”

As the Grace Center prepares to open its doors, it will stand as a lasting testament to the Purcells’ philosophy: No matter what path you choose in life, lead by example and work hard to earn the respect of those who work above you, with you, and for you.