CHICAGO — A block party near Loyola’s Water Tower Campus did double duty Thursday, acting as a kick-off to the new academic year and a celebration of Sister Jean.
The afternoon event along East Pearson Street included food, entertainment, giveaways and a special tribute to Sister Jean, the chaplain for the Loyola Ramblers men’s basketball team turned 105 years old last week.
“I really think we’re going to do well,” Sister Jean said of her Ramblers. “We have some very good freshman, and our team that was there before are helping everybody to become a good team with sharing the ball and doing what they’re supposed to do on the court.”
In an interview with WGN Radio on Wednesday, Sister Jean spoke of her future plans and advice she imparts on students.
“I still want to be the kind of person I am right now,” she told WGN Radio’s Lisa Dent. “I always say to everybody, students: Just be yourself. And that’s what I try to do. I try to be myself, and I just want to make an impact on students, help them plan their lives, tell them don’t let anyone spoil your dreams. If your first dream doesn’t work out, well, maybe you have to pick a second one. And that’s not failure. That’s just that the first dream was not for you.”
Those unable to attend Thursday’s celebration can sign a digital birthday card to share their well wishes, memories and photos. Additionally, donations made to the university’s Worship, Work, Win fund and Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt Scholarship fund will support student-athletic excellence and athlete welfare, causes that are deeply meaningful to Sister Jean, as well as scholarships to current Loyola students in need.