Widener track and field announces the Widener Invitational will become the Paul Donahue Invitational at Widener University.
“Widener Track and Field is honored to rename the Widener Invitational after our beloved brother Paul Donahue,” said Widener Men’s Cross Country and Track and Field Head Coach Vince Touey. The inaugural Paul Donahue Invitational at Widener University will be held between April 19-20 on the George A. Hansell Track at Leslie C. Quick Jr. Stadium.
Donahue, a men’s cross country and track and field athlete from the 2021-23 seasons, passed away suddenly on Dec. 7, 2022. Donahue spent his time running with Widener cross country and indoor and outdoor track and field. His main focuses were the 400m and 800m races in track and field and 8K in cross country. In the classroom, Donahue was a history major who held a 3.75 GPA.
Donahue was known for his compassion and humility. He loved spending time with his family and friends, cared for the environment, and always treated others with respect.
Coach Touey remarks “Paul’s dedication to excellence was and remains an inspiration to all the members of the men’s and women’s teams. “Although we deeply miss Paul, we look forward to creating an annual track and field invitational that enables Widener and visiting athletes to share in the spirit that gave him his identity – to run for others in hopes that we can share in the glory that goes to those who ‘give it their all.'”
In conjunction with the Paul Michael Donahue Foundation, Widener track and field will present the Paul Donahue Humanitarian Award. This award is presented to a graduating track and field student-athlete who exemplifies a life of humility and kindness with a demonstrated commitment to the welfare of the greater community.
Donahue, a Mullica Hill, N.J. native, graduated from Clearview Regional High School in 2021.