Honoring Michael A. O’Pake ’61

The Honorable Senator Michael A. O’Pake, Esq. ’61 will be remembered with great respect and gratitude for many reasons. He was the longest-serving member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. He was a tireless champion for the greater good as an advocate for children and vulnerable populations. Most of all, he was a loyal and enthusiastic supporter of Saint Joseph’s University.

O’Pake also will be remembered for the building on the Maguire Campus that now bears his name. The Honorable Michael A. O’Pake, Esq. ’61 Recreation Center was dedicated on May 11, 2011 as a fitting memorial to an avid fan of Hawk athletics who had a positive influence in the lives of young people.

The O’Pake Recreation Center nearly tripled the University’s available athletic space for community, intramural and varsity athletics. It features two full-size gymnasiums, a fitness center and pool, as well as training facilities, office and locker space for varsity baseball, softball, field hockey and men’s and women’s tennis. “The O’Pake Recreation Center finally provides the University with facilities that match our shared passion for Hawk athletics,” said Don DiJulia ’67, Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics.

As one of Saint Joseph’s most influential leaders and ambassadors, O’Pake served as a member of the Board of Trustees from 2000 to 2008, on the Alumni Executive Committee and Haub School of Business Advisory Board. He won the Criminal Justice Alumni Award in 1988 and the Law Chapter’s McClanaghan Award in 1998.

In November 2010, O’Pake was presented with the Shield of Loyola at SJU’s annual Alumni Gala. “No one has lived his life as a man for others more than Mike O’Pake,” said Fr. Lannon. Within a month, O’Pake suddenly passed away.

Through planned giving, O’Pake continues to support the University he loved and served so well. His legacy of being a man for others continues in the lives of SJU students as they enjoy health and fitness through expanded access to athletic facilities.