.png)
Mixing Faith and Finance:
Lessons from Jim Donahue at Catholics Mean Business
After an inspiring kickoff with Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Carlos Muñiz, the Catholics Mean Business series continued this month with another outstanding opportunity for students to integrate faith and professional life.
Jim Donahue, a local civil engineer and former Catholic Nole, shared practical advice on starting one’s financial life on the right path. Armed with thoughtful notes and a clear presentation, Jim covered the fundamentals of personal finance—budgeting, saving, and building an investment strategy for young professionals—all while emphasizing Catholic virtue and ethical decision-making in business.
Students eagerly engaged, asking questions that ranged from investment strategies to tax deductions. The discussion was both informative and faith-filled, offering a reminder that professionalism and discipleship can go hand in hand.
When asked what it means to see students forming their faith while preparing for their professional lives, Jim shared:
“It inspires me to see young Catholic students committed to growing in knowledge and practice of the Faith. Their desire to put God at the center of all aspects of their life, especially their professional lives, gives me great hope for the next generation. It’s students like these that will go on to fulfill St. John Paul II’s call for the laity to sanctify the secular world.”
​
Jim embodies the mission of Catholic Noles—living faith beyond graduation through integrity, excellence, and a desire to serve the greater good.
If you’re an alum interested in sharing with students how your faith impacts your career or community, Sam Nunnally would love to hear your story. Reach out to him at sam@catholicnoles.org.