Regis University dedicates plaza in honor of late philanthropist

Regis University and the William Fortune family honored the memory and legacy of Kathy Fortune with the dedication of Fortune Plaza on Oct. 2 at the university’s campus in northwest Denver.

Fortune, who died Jan. 18 after a two-year battle with breast cancer, had a long relationship with the university, first serving as alumni and financial aid director and most recently chairing the highly successful “Campaign for Regis University, Writing the Next Chapter” with her husband Bill, a 1969 Regis University alumni.

The dedication involved the unveiling of two plaques by Kathy and Bill’s children, Molly and Casey.  Jesuit Father Michael Sheeran, president of Regis University, said during the dedication that the plaques highlight Kathy Fortune’s long-time commitment to the university, the positive difference she made in the lives of others in the community, and the importance of her faith, family and friends.  One plaque features the plaza name while the other presents Fortune’s image and information about her life.

Father Sheeran said visitors to the plaza are encouraged to contemplate the wonder of God’s world, study with friends and enjoy time with family.  The Fortune Plaza is located on the north side of Main Hall in front of the St. John Francis Regis Chapel.

Fortune earned a bachelor’s degree in business at Oklahoma City University and a master’s degree in counseling at Marquette University in Milwaukee.  She was assistant director of financial aid and alumni affairs at Marquette before arriving to Regis.  She was involved with many community organizations including Annunciation School, the Seeds of Hope Charitable Trust and Arrupe Jesuit High School.

The dedication was also part of the university’s “Celebration of Our Jesuit Heritage” event that featured a dinner and remarks by the Very Rev. Timothy M. McMahon, S.J., provincial of the Jesuits of the Missouri Province.