The Busch School joins the Catholic University family in mourning the loss of University alumnus and benefactor, Joseph Della Ratta. The Della Ratta family gave generously to the Busch School its first chair, the Centesimus Annus Della Ratta Family Endowed Professorship, to Professor Max Torres. They also contributed to renovating our home, Maloney Hall, which features the stunning Della Ratta Auditorium.

As we say our last farewell to Joe this week, we express our gratitude for his life and his contributions and take this opportunity to share the speech delivered by Dr. Max Torres in 2015 upon receiving the Centesimus Annus Della Ratta Family Endowed Professorship. Read the full speech here. 

May he rest in peace and may his family be comforted by the Spirit as they grieve.

Joe's funeral will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, September 27, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. All are invited to attend.