In 2002, the intersection of two remarkable visions created a groundbreaking opportunity for a wholly new approach to education and land planning. On one side, Tom Monaghan, founder of Domino's Pizza and chairman of the Ave Maria Foundation, dreamed of creating the first major Catholic university in the United States in more than 40 years.

"We wanted to build a major Catholic university in the southern part of the United States with the highest standards," he said at the time. "I can't think of a better place than one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, which is centered around Naples. This location will be very attractive to students who want the finest Catholic education. It will offer the best of both worlds -- the great quality of life of Naples and a new dynamic Catholic and educational community."

At the same time, the Barron Collier Companies, a diversified Southwest Florida company carrying forward the legacy of the County's founding family, was poised to usher in a revolutionary program in rural land planning.

"The 'Rural Stewardship' program developed for Collier County's eastern lands is an innovative approach to protecting both the environment and agriculture, while promoting economic prosperity," explains Former Barron Collier Companies President Paul Marinelli. "In fact, it is quickly becoming a statewide, even national model for rural development. Ave Maria University was the ideal concept for the Stewardship program."

As these two visionary parties became partners in the creation of Ave Maria, they found not only the means for bringing their respective dreams to reality, but also an opportunity to build an institution unlike any other.

"What we have created here is truly a unique approach to educational and land planning," Marinelli continues. "Developing both academic and community features at the same time allows us to create an environment where living and learning form an integrated whole. The campus is an intrinsic part of the town, and participating in town life is an enriching aspect of the university experience. Town residents also benefit from the cultural and academic resources provided by the university."

The partners have invested hundreds of millions of dollars to create the first phase of the project. Included are the University, which ultimately will offer not only a full curriculum of traditional liberal arts, sciences and engineering programs, but also a comprehensive graduate program offering master's and doctoral degrees to an estimated 5,000 students. The accompanying town provides single- and multi-family housing in a wide range of styles and prices, along with commercial and office facilities to accommodate the businesses and organizations needed to support this major academic institution.

The first phase is now is now open to more than 600 students, with all necessary campus and town facilities.