"The BIG EAST was devastated to learn of the passing yesterday of Marquette President Dr. Mike Lovell, who was traveling in Rome as part of a Jesuit pilgrimage.  As many of us knew, Mike had waged a brave, years-long fight against sarcoma, and through it all he remained a vibrant, selfless and compassionate leader who approached life with vigor and optimism, inspiring us all.   He cared deeply about the success of his students, for whom he sought to provide an unparalleled educational experience, and his support for athletics as a way to develop young people and strengthen community bonds was second to none.  Mike was also a well-liked and respected figure in our meeting rooms, serving over the years on our Audit & Finance, New Business Initiatives and Executive Committees, and he could always be counted on to offer thoughtful, practical and values-driven counsel no matter the topic.

 

Mike was at all turns guided by his faith and an unwavering moral compass, and we will always remember him for his courage, energy and determination to make any situation better than the way he found it.  We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Amy, his family and the entire Marquette community during this exceedingly painful time.   He will be very deeply missed."

--BIG EAST Commissioner Val Ackerman