The Catholic University of America announced on March 30 the installation of Professor Nicholas Schmitz as the first Trey and Nina Traviesa Endowed Chair in Finance at its Busch School of Business. The appointment marks the school’s third endowed chair and was celebrated during a ceremony on March 24.
The creation of this position aims to advance Catholic principles within business education by bridging faith and finance. The endowed chair was established through contributions from Trey and Nina Traviesa, Leonard Leo and the Marble Freedom Trust, Chris and Becky Lagan, and Tim Busch.
Trey Traviesa, who serves on both the Busch School Board of Visitors and the University’s Board of Trustees, said: “Finance is good — it is a powerful bridge to many goods. We are called to use our gifts to multiply those who will join our Father in heaven.”
Schmitz brings experience as a Rhodes Scholar, Naval Academy graduate, and former Goldman Sachs professional. He said he sees his new role as an opportunity to influence future finance professionals by combining intellectual rigor with moral courage.
The university reports that this milestone reflects its ongoing commitment to shaping leaders who integrate ethical values into their professional lives.
