Ave Maria School of Law

Ave Maria School of Law stands out as a uniquely committed institution, founded with the specific vision of creating a "true Catholic" law school. Established in 1999 by Tom Monaghan, the school’s inception stemmed from a desire to offer a legal education deeply integrated with Catholic teachings and values, setting a distinctive tone for its academic and community life.

Opening its doors to the first class in 2000 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the school quickly established a rigorous academic foundation. Its curriculum benefited from the consultation of prominent legal minds, including U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia and legal scholar Charles E. Rice. Robert Bork, another highly respected legal figure, served as an early faculty member. A core tenet of the school's identity is the requirement for all faculty and administrators to make a profession of faith, vowing to adhere to Catholic teachings, underscoring its profound religious orientation.

After initially facing challenges in Ann Arbor, the school made a significant move to Florida in 2009, eventually settling in Naples. This relocation marked a new chapter, demonstrating the institution's resilience and unwavering dedication to its founding principles. Today, under the leadership of Dean John Czarnetzky, appointed in May 2021, Ave Maria School of Law continues its mission, providing a conservative Catholic legal education that prepares students for meaningful careers grounded in faith and ethical practice.