Student Feature: Meet Doreen
Loyola IPS student, Doreen Kelly joins us from a small town in Michigan, but is already achieving big things. Read more about her below and see how IPS is helping her on her journey to “go forth and change the world.”
Hometown: Originally from Holton, Michigan, a tiny town 20 miles northeast of Muskegon.
Previous education: Aquinas College, Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts, 1984
A favorite of yours?
I enjoy reading. Favorite authors include: Jodi Picoult, Amy Tan, Elizabeth Berg, Maeve Binchy, Gail Tsukiama, Lisa See.
A bible verse that has significance to you?
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for woe, plans to give you a future full of hope.” This has been a favorite verse since I was an undergrad and searching for direction. I was able to write an exegetical paper on it for IPS 417; it was an amazing experience to delve into the background of this oracle delivered by Jeremiah to the exiles.
What were you doing before beginning your IPS journey?
I work as a Teacher Assistant in 7th grade special education, assisting students with learning needs in their regular education science and social studies classes. I’ve also been involved in several ministries in my parish, most recently our Christ Renews His Parish ministry as a team leader and in support of teams actively in formation. I am also a Eucharistic Minister.
What made you decide to come to Loyola IPS?
For most of my life, I have found great fulfillment and a sense of purpose through volunteering in ministries in whatever parish I have been a part of. In these last few years, I have felt a call to leadership in ministries and at the same time a need for more knowledge and exploration of different aspects of our faith which would strengthen my leadership potential. I chose Loyola because I feel drawn by the Jesuit mission of service and because I experienced a great sense of welcome, enthusiasm and deep dedication of the staff and faculty of IPS to preparing people to not only lead extraordinary lives but preparing ministers to serve God’s people in extraordinary ways.
What degree plan are you in? I am in the MAPS program.
What are you most looking forward to accomplishing during your time here at Loyola IPS and how does that relate to your future goals?
I am looking forward to gaining real knowledge and self-awareness that will help direct my path to working in ministry full time.
Do you have a favorite class or one you look forward to taking?
So far, I have only taken Literature of Ancient Israel and Christian Origins, and I have really enjoyed them both.
In what way will you go forth to “change the world?”
I am a true believer in the mission of St. Ignatius to find God in all things. I pray that as I continue to be formed by my Loyola education, my ability to look first through the eyes of Jesus at situations and people I encounter will grow stronger and stronger. Ignatius changed the world through serving others. There’s no greater calling.
Are you currently working on any interesting project(s)?
I am writing an exegetical paper on part of the “The Road to Emmaus” story from the Gospel of Luke. I have always loved this post-resurrection account of the two disciples encountering Jesus on their journey. I am excited to delve into what the biblical text meant “when the ink was wet” as Fr. Madden says.
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