Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John’s University has announced the passing of Thomas J. Donohue, a former Chief Executive Officer of the US Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Donohue passed away on October 14 at his home in northern Virginia after a brief illness, surrounded by family.

Thomas J. Donohue was honored with the Spirit of Service Award at St. John’s University’s Annual President’s Dinner in 2021, embodying the spirit of a dedicated and successful graduate from the institution.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Mr. Donohue grew up in Rockville Centre during the post-World War II housing boom. He attributed his free-market beliefs to his early work experiences as a teenager. He attended St. John’s University, following in his father’s footsteps, while living at home to save money and working multiple jobs to fund his education.

After earning an M.B.A. from Adelphi University and working for the Boy Scouts of America, Mr. Donohue served as US Deputy Assistant Postmaster General from 1969 to 1976 before joining the US Chamber of Commerce for eight years until 1984. He then became President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations and gained recognition as a prominent lobbyist in Washington, DC.

Returning to lead the chamber in 1997 until his retirement in 2021, Mr. Donohue was credited with transforming it into a significant lobbying force with global influence. His leadership saw expanded trade efforts, domestic energy production initiatives, infrastructure rebuilding projects, regulatory combat strategies, intellectual property protection measures, capital market revitalization efforts, and advocacy for various reforms.

Mr. Donohue's tenure also marked increased political involvement by mobilizing grassroots business advocates and state and local chambers to support pro-business candidates across party lines.

Throughout his career, he remained connected to St. John’s University by supporting programs like Alumni Insider’s View…US Capital program and hosting alumni events.

Mr. Donohue received honorary degrees from several universities including Adelphi and St. John’s University along with international honors such as Germany's Order of the Crown (Commander Class) and Japan's Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun.

He is survived by three sons and five grandchildren following the passing of his wife Liz.