Providence, RI – Ben Mondor, the retired businessman who in 1977 purchased and then revitalized the bankrupt Pawtucket Red Sox Triple-A International Leage affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, recently celebrated his 80th birthday with a special gift to Providence College.
Mondor and his wife, Madeleine, have made a gift to the College of ocean-front property in Warwick Neck, Rhode Island, valued at several million dollars. The 86,000 square foot parcel – which affords a panoramic view of the West passage of Narragansett Bay – includes a contemporary residence that the Mondors will continue to live in under a life estate arrangement.
“Providence College is very grateful for this incredibly generous gift from Ben and Madeleine Mondor,” notes Rev. Philip A. Smith, O.P., president of the College. “It is one more example of their magnanimous spirit and the affection they hold for the College.”
“I have admired the values and mission of Providence College for many years,” explains Mondor.
“Madeline and I are pleased to make this gift to the College. Under the leadership of Father Smith during these past eleven years, Providence College has continued to play such an important role in shaping the lives of so many young people.”
Mondor, who last year stepped down from involvement in day-to-day operations of the Pawtucket club, initiated and helped fund a $16 million renovation and expansion of McCoy Stadium. More than 11 million fans have attended games during his tenure.
Mondor developed the Pawtucket Red Sox Charitable Foundation, working closely with the Special Olympics, Jimmy Fund, Muscular Dystrophy Association, American Heart Association, Community College of Rhode Island Foundation, and the U.S. Army’s Patriotic Civilian Services. In November 2004, Mondor was inducted into the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame, the only minor league owner so honored. The International League recognized Mondor’s success with his ball club by naming him its 1999 Executive of the Year.
In recognition of his lifetime achievements, Mondor was awarded an honorary Doctor of Business Administration degree by Providence College in May 2004.
-- 30 --