Staff Spotlight: Sister Judy Schaefer

BY SARAH MCDONOUGH
Cardinal Staff

While her official title is the university dean for University Affairs and department chair and associate professor of Theology, Sister Judy Schaefer has had many experiences that have lead her to the position she has today.

Sister Judy’s journey began while attending grade school when she had Sisters for teachers. Their joy, intelligence and compassion for students is where Sister Judy’s passion to become both a Sister and teacher bloomed.

After high school graduation, Sister Judy set out for college to major in education. Becoming a Sister was still one of her goals, but the convent required that theose desiring to dedicate their lives to their religious community must show that they have had some life experiences.

At the age of 20, Sister Judy felt it was time to get on the path of Sisterhood. She was accepted, and the typical seven-to-nine-year process began. After years of education and spending five years living as a sister, she took her final vows as a Dominican Sister at the age of 27.

After entering the Sisterhood, Sister Judy found a home at Saint Mary’s University, where she spent 10 years teaching in the Theology Department before adding her current administrative position in June 2009. Sister Judy said that she took the job because she saw that her goals for the university were the same as Brother William Mann, president of the university.

“He is driven by his love of students, and so am I,” said Sister Judy. “That’s what gives me life — interacting with students.”

Sister Judy’s responsibilities also include following up with students after they have expressed questions or concerns to Brother William. While Brother William is out of the office, Sister Judy also keeps him up-to-date with events around campus.

“I’m glad I can contribute to make Saint Mary’s the best it can be,” said Sister Judy.