Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, Loyola Chicago's Beloved Chaplain, Dies at 106
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the beloved 106-year-old chaplain for Loyola Chicago's men's basketball team, passed away, leaving a legacy of wisdom, grace, and inspiration for the university community.
Overview
- Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the cherished chaplain for Loyola Chicago's men's basketball team, passed away at the age of 106, prompting widespread tributes and condolences.
- She was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of Loyola Chicago students, faculty, and staff, maintaining an office and living in the dorms to offer advice.
- Sister Jean gained international fame as the Loyola Ramblers' good luck charm during their Cinderella Final Four run in the 2018 NCAA men's basketball tournament.
- Known for leading team prayers, offering scouting reports, and sending personalized emails, she retired from her duties in August due to health issues.
- Having taught at Mundelein College since 1961 and serving as an academic advisor, Sister Jean published a memoir in 2023 before her passing.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story as a heartfelt tribute to Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, emphasizing her profound spiritual impact and beloved celebrity status. They consistently use celebratory language and highlight her wisdom, grace, and enduring legacy, portraying her as an inspirational figure who deeply influenced Loyola Chicago's community and beyond, particularly during the 2018 NCAA tournament.
"Sister Jean was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff."
CBS News"While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy."
Associated Press"Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community and her spirit abides in thousands of lives."
Chicago Sun-Times"While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy."
USA TODAYArticles (6)
Center (4)
FAQ
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt was the beloved chaplain for Loyola Chicago's men's basketball team for over 30 years and a long-time educator and spiritual guide at the university. She was significant for her wisdom, grace, and inspirational presence, becoming an international celebrity during the team's 2018 Final Four run at age 98 and serving the Loyola community for more than 60 years.
Sister Jean was a college professor teaching education at Mundelein College since 1961, served as an academic advisor, and held administrative roles including Dean of Mundelein College, Associate Dean, Director of Summer Sessions, Director of Coffey Hall, and Associate Vice President for academic affairs. She was also the official chaplain of the men's basketball team from 1994 until her retirement in 2025.
Sister Jean gained national and international fame during the 2018 NCAA men's basketball tournament when the Loyola Ramblers made a Cinderella run to the Final Four. At age 98, she was noted for leading team prayers, offering scouting insights, and became widely beloved as the team’s good luck charm and an inspirational figure.
Sister Jean was inducted into the Ramblers' Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017, received the Sword of Loyola—the university's highest honor—in 2018, and had the Loyola CTA Red Line plaza renamed in her honor in 2022. She also published a memoir in 2023 sharing her life experiences and lessons.
Sister Jean retired from her chaplain duties in August 2025 due to health issues after serving in the role since 1994, shortly before her passing at age 106 in October 2025.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.