News
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt Dies at 106
Oct
Loyola University’s Beloved Chaplain Remembered
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM — the beloved chaplain of the Loyola University Chicago men’s basketball team and a national icon during the school’s 2018 March Madness run — has died at the age of 106, Loyola University confirmed late Thursday (October 9).
Born Dolores Bertha Schmidt, Sister Jean became a household name when she accompanied the Loyola Ramblers to the Final Four in 2018, their first appearance in the semifinals since the team’s 1963 national championship season. She remained a fixture on the sidelines for decades, attending every season between those historic milestones.
A Life of Faith and Service
“In many roles at Loyola over the course of more than 60 years, Sister Jean was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff,” said Loyola President Mark C. Reed. “While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy. Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community, and her spirit abides in thousands of lives.”
Sister Jean began her teaching career at several Catholic schools before joining Mundelein College in 1961, which later became affiliated with Loyola in 1991. She took on an academic advisor role with the men’s basketball team in 1994 and eventually became the team’s chaplain — a position she held until her retirement last month.
Legacy of Faith and Compassion
“Sister Jean Dolores was a woman of prayer, a dedicated educator, and a bearer of hope who loved her BVM Community,” said BVM President LaDonna Manternach. “She saw God present in all that surrounded her and trusted in His goodness. Her presence with us will be greatly missed.”
Her unwavering optimism and humor made her a symbol of faith, perseverance, and community spirit — both on and off the court.
A Lifetime of Recognition
Throughout her long life, Sister Jean received numerous honors for her service and joyful spirit. On her 100th birthday, she received an Apostolic Blessing from the late Pope Francis, and for her 103rd birthday, the Loyola CTA Red Line plaza was renamed in her honor on August 21, 2022.
Even in her later years, she remained active in prayer and mentorship, inspiring countless fans and students with her message of love, faith, and resilience.
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