For more than two decades, Pallottine Father Frank Donio, state chaplain of the District of Columbia, has accompanied university students on their faith journey. In recognition of his generous service to the Order and to young people, Father Donio was awarded the 2025 Blessed Michael McGivney Medal.
As an undergraduate in 1987, Father Donio helped establish The Catholic University of America Council 9542. He now serves as the council’s chaplain and faithful friar of James Cardinal Hickey Assembly 2534 in Washington, D.C.
Father Donio has been a spiritual father to hundreds of CUA students, offering counsel and hosting annual discernment retreats for Knights. Since he became chaplain, more than 20 men have entered the priesthood with his encouragement and guidance.
On campus, Father Donio offers a weekly “Knight Mass” for the entire Catholic community. He also hosts a semiannual “OverKnight” event, during which he offers Mass and prepares a home-cooked meal for council members.
In addition to teaching at CUA’s School of Theology and Religious Studies, Father Donio is executive director of the Conference of Major Superiors of Men and holds leadership roles in his religious community, the Society of the Catholic Apostolate (Pallottines). He is also the founding director of the Catholic Apostolate Center, working with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and various Catholic organizations and dioceses on projects related to evangelization, co-responsibility and Church leadership.








