The Loyola University Chicago community, along with the wider collegiate sports world, mourns the passing of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who died on Thursday at the age of 106. As the beloved chaplain for the men’s basketball team, Sister Jean became an international celebrity during the school’s inspiring run to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament in 2018, charming millions with her unwavering spirit and sage advice.
For over six decades, Sister Jean served Loyola in various capacities, evolving from an educator and academic adviser into an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff. Her unique blend of spiritual guidance, keen observational skills, and deep personal connection transformed her role from a mere title into a living embodiment of the university’s values and a beacon of hope for its athletes.
Her remarkable life story, which spanned more than a century and witnessed profound historical changes, is a testament to unwavering purpose, infectious joy, and an enduring commitment to nurturing young minds and spirits. This article delves into the foundational aspects of her journey, illuminating the experiences and decisions that shaped the woman who would become a global icon.
1. **Early Life and Religious Calling**Born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, in San Francisco, Sister Jean was the oldest of three daughters to Joseph and Bertha Schmidt. Her formative years were steeped in a devoutly Catholic family environment, where faith played a central role. She bore witness to some of the 20th century’s most defining historical moments, including the profound economic upheaval of the Great Depression and the global conflict of World War II.
Her memories included significant milestones of progress, such as the construction of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, which she vividly recalled crossing on foot when it first opened to the public in 1937. These early experiences undoubtedly shaped her perspective, instilling in her a resilience and understanding of life’s broader tapestry that would inform her counsel in later years.
The genesis of her religious calling emerged remarkably early, at the tender age of eight, while she was in the third grade at a Roman Catholic school. It was during this time that she encountered a teacher—a kind, joyful woman who belonged to the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM). This encounter profoundly resonated with the young Dolores, igniting a fervent desire within her.
Brimming with admiration for this teacher and the order she represented, Dolores began to pray daily, earnestly seeking divine guidance. As she recounted in her memoir, her prayer was specific: “Dear God, help me understand what I should do, but please tell me I should become a BVM sister.” She reflected, “I guess God listened to me on that one,” underscoring the deep conviction of her path. She followed her calling to the order’s motherhouse in Dubuque, Iowa, where she made her vows, adopting the religious name Sister Jean Dolores in 1937.
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2. **Educational and Coaching Career**Following her solemn vows, Sister Jean embarked on a dedicated career in education, a path that saw her serve in various Catholic schools across both Chicago and Southern California. Her commitment to teaching extended beyond traditional classroom instruction, encompassing a holistic approach to student development.
Notably, during her time in Southern California, Sister Jean also took on the additional role of coaching girls’ basketball. This experience provided her with early insights into the dynamics of team sports and the profound impact a mentor could have on young athletes, foreshadowing her later, more famous role.
In 1961, Sister Jean brought her considerable teaching and administrative talents to Mundelein College, a women’s school situated on the Chicago lakefront. This institution, significantly, had been founded by her own religious order, the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Her tenure at Mundelein further solidified her reputation as a dedicated educator and administrator, deeply invested in the intellectual and personal growth of her students. She had also obtained a master’s degree from what is now Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles, further enhancing her academic credentials.
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3. **Transition to Loyola Chicago and Academic Advising**The landscape of her academic career shifted in 1991 when Mundelein College became formally affiliated with Loyola University Chicago, effectively being absorbed by the larger institution. Recognizing her deep institutional knowledge and her invaluable experience with students, Sister Jean was retained and subsequently hired by Loyola.
Her initial role at Loyola Chicago was as an assistant dean and academic adviser, a position specifically tailored to help Mundelein students navigate the transition to the Loyola system. This demonstrated her adaptability and the university’s recognition of her unique ability to provide guidance and support during times of significant change.
It was during this period that her connection to collegiate sports began to solidify. The Rev. John Piderit, then Loyola’s president, approached Sister Jean with a specific request: he asked if she would remain on campus beyond her intended retirement to assist student-athletes in maintaining good academic standing. This marked the inception of her direct involvement with the university’s athletic programs, beginning with a focus on academic achievement. She met weekly with players whose grades were merely average, offering practical help such as coaching on time management and even assisting them in structuring essays, highlighting her hands-on approach to their success.
4. **Appointment as Men’s Basketball Team Chaplain**Soon after her initial role assisting student-athletes, in 1994, Sister Jean was named the chaplain of the men’s basketball team. This appointment marked a pivotal moment in her life, a role she would later describe with profound significance. In her memoir, she characterized it as “the most transformational and transcendent position” she had ever held, underscoring the deep personal fulfillment and purpose it brought her.
Her dedication to this new calling was immediate and unwavering. She viewed her role not merely as a spiritual figurehead but as an integral part of the team’s ecosystem. For Sister Jean, the world of sports was a powerful arena for personal growth. She firmly believed that “Sports are very important because they help develop life skills,” adding that “during those life skills, you’re also talking about faith and purpose.” This perspective framed her approach, ensuring her guidance extended beyond athletic performance to encompass the broader development of each young man.
This commitment to developing holistic individuals, rather than just skilled athletes, distinguished her approach. She wasn’t simply a presence on the sidelines; she was a mentor, a confidante, and a spiritual guide who saw the immense potential within each player to grow not just in sport, but in life and faith. Her ability to connect these various threads—athletics, academics, and spirituality—made her an indispensable figure within the Loyola community long before her international fame.
5. **The 2018 NCAA Tournament and Global Celebrity**The year 2018 became indelible in the annals of Loyola Chicago’s history, not only for its men’s basketball team’s improbable run but also for the emergence of Sister Jean as a global icon. Prior to this, Loyola had not appeared in the NCAA Tournament since a Sweet 16 loss to Georgetown in 1985, and its last national championship dated back to 1963, a team notable for breaking racial barriers with four Black starters. At 98 years old, Sister Jean, providing a palpable spiritual lift, captured the imagination of the entire nation, transforming Loyola’s tournament journey into a modern-day fairy tale.
Her engaging personality and unwavering support for the Ramblers quickly propelled her into the national spotlight. She became one of the most talked-about personalities during that 2018 NCAA Tournament, sought out for countless interviews by media outlets eager to share her story. Her news conference at the tournament, remarkably, drew more journalists than Tom Brady commanded at the Super Bowl, a testament to her widespread appeal.
Sister Jean embraced this sudden fame, seeing it as a “holy opportunity” to share her story and the life lessons she had accumulated. Her reach extended far beyond national borders; when a reporter once described her as a “national” celebrity, Sister Jean promptly corrected her, stating, “No, we’re international.” This moment perfectly encapsulated her joyful and confident spirit, showcasing her ability to connect with people from all walks of life and underscoring the truly global impact of her story.
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6. **Her Unique Approach as Chaplain**Sister Jean’s role as team chaplain was far from ceremonial; it was characterized by a deeply personalized and hands-on approach that directly contributed to the team’s morale and preparation. Before every game, she would lead the Loyola Ramblers in pregame prayers, a ritual that became a beloved tradition. In these prayers, she would specifically ask God “to bless the hands that would be used for shooting and rebounding,” a clear indication of her intimate understanding of the game and her desire for the players’ success.
Beyond spiritual guidance, Sister Jean was also an astute informal scout. She diligently studied box scores of upcoming opponents’ games, meticulously identifying their strengths and weaknesses. These insights were then shared with the Loyola coach and players, providing a unique tactical edge that went beyond typical coaching staff efforts. Her ability to analyze gameplay and convey relevant observations underscored her genuine engagement and commitment.
After each game, her dedication continued with a thoughtful and personalized communication strategy. She would send a general email to the entire team, expressing collective encouragement. Crucially, at the conclusion of each email, she would include individualized notes for players, such as: “‘Hey, Donte, you did this, you rebounded well tonight. Even though they were out there to get you, you still came through for the team.’” This level of personal attention, offering specific feedback and affirmation, fostered a profound sense of connection and appreciation among the athletes. It was this blend of spiritual support, tactical insight, and individual care that made her an irreplaceable figure in the Ramblers’ program.
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7. **Impact on Players and the Team Spirit**The profound impact Sister Jean had on the Loyola Chicago basketball players, many of whom were 80 years her junior, cannot be overstated. They made no secret of what she meant to them personally, to the program, and to the university as a whole. Her presence was a source of constant encouragement and inspiration, extending far beyond the role of a mere superfan or figurehead; the Ramblers insisted she was a genuine part of their success.
Donte Ingram, a player pivotal in the 2018 tournament run, articulated her significance after hitting a crucial 3-pointer against Miami: “Sister Jean, she has meant so much to me personally and obviously the team.” He emphasized her unwavering commitment, noting, “She is there before every game. She’s saying a prayer before every game. After the game, she sends a general email to the team. And then at the end of the email, it’ll be individualized… She’s just so special, her spirit. She’s just so bright, and she means so much to the city of Chicago and Loyola obviously and the team.”
Similarly, guard Clayton Custer conveyed the unique power of her intercessions during the tournament, stating, “Prayers definitely mean a little bit extra when she prays for us.” Even after the 2018 run concluded with a loss to Michigan in the national semifinals, her role as comforter was immediate and essential. Forward Aundre Jackson recalled, “Sister Jean just said it was a great season. She was so happy to be on this run with us and we should keep our heads high and be happy with what we accomplished.” This highlights her role in providing perspective and maintaining team morale even in defeat.
Former Loyola guard Derek Molis, who played in the 1990s, underscored her enduring personal impact, telling The New York Times that she helped him cope with his mother’s death. He stated, “Most of the world knows her from the fame perspective… The rest of us simply know her as Sister Jean, the one person we knew we could always count on.” He added, “I’ll tell Sister Jean stories till the day that I die,” a powerful testament to the deep, lasting bonds she forged with countless individuals. Her ability to offer solace, guidance, and unwavering support solidified her status as an irreplaceable figure in the lives of the players she touched.
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8. **Continued Global Celebrity and Recognition**Sister Jean’s prominence, ignited during the 2018 NCAA Tournament, continued to expand, transforming her into a recognized figure well beyond the collegiate sports arena. Her engaging presence and unwavering support for the Loyola Ramblers resonated deeply with a broad audience, fostering an affection that transcended typical fan admiration.
Her newfound celebrity was not merely a fleeting moment of national attention. Sister Jean embraced the spotlight, viewing it as a “holy opportunity” to disseminate her life story and the invaluable lessons she had accumulated over a century. This perspective underscored her commitment to using her platform for greater purpose, reflecting her lifelong dedication to spiritual and personal development.
Her image became widely recognizable, appearing on various merchandise, from bobblehead dolls—with plans for a third edition underway by 2021—to a Lego statue housed in Loyola’s art museum gallery. These cultural artifacts underscored her enduring appeal and the widespread desire to commemorate her unique spirit. Sister Jean herself was known for her personalized gym shoes, emblazoned with Loyola’s colors and her name, a distinctive touch that further endeared her to fans and players alike.
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9. **Her Enduring Life Philosophy**Throughout her remarkable life, Sister Jean consistently articulated a philosophy centered on purpose, joy, and authenticity. Her memoir, “Wake Up with Purpose! What I’ve Learned in My First 100 Years,” published in 2023, served as a distillation of these principles, offering spiritual advice and life lessons to a global readership.
She frequently emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and leveraging one’s inherent gifts. As she counseled, “You can’t be somebody different, you have to be yourself, the person God wanted you to be. And so just use the talents that God’s given you and just live your life.” This message of embracing one’s true nature resonated with countless individuals seeking guidance and affirmation.
Moreover, Sister Jean underscored the transformative power of positivity and engagement with the younger generation. She famously stated to The Associated Press in 2023, “I love life so much and enjoy being with young people. They’re the ones who keep me going because they bring such joy into my life — and they keep you updated on what’s happening in their world.” This mutual exchange of energy and perspective was a cornerstone of her vibrant spirit, demonstrating her belief in continuous learning and connection.
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10. **Widespread Recognition and Accolades**Sister Jean’s extraordinary life and impact garnered significant recognition from numerous distinguished figures and institutions. Her centennial and subsequent birthdays became occasions for public celebration and official commendation, highlighting the widespread admiration she commanded.
At the age of 100, Sister Jean received a profound spiritual honor: an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis, acknowledging her lifelong devotion and service. This recognition from the highest authority in the Catholic Church further cemented her status as a revered spiritual leader.
Her 103rd birthday was marked by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who dedicated the day in her honor, a testament to her local and state-level significance. Furthermore, on her 105th birthday, Sister Jean received a personal proclamation from President Joe Biden, who had also sent her flowers on at least one prior occasion. President Biden’s message eloquently affirmed, “You have shown us all that yours is a life well lived,” encapsulating the profound respect and appreciation she had earned from the nation’s highest office.
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11. **Ongoing Engagement with Students and the Loyola Community**Even amidst her international fame, Sister Jean remained deeply rooted in the Loyola University Chicago community, maintaining a consistent and personal engagement with its students. Her commitment to their well-being and development extended far beyond her official duties as chaplain and adviser.
Beginning in 1978, Sister Jean lived in the dormitories on and off, a practice that facilitated strong, continuous relationships with students. It was a common sight to find her sharing lunch with them in the student center, offering informal guidance and getting to know them on a personal level, demonstrating her accessibility and genuine care.
Her initiatives also fostered community beyond the campus. She led prayer groups within residence halls, providing spiritual nourishment, and established a program designed to connect students with residents at a retirement community. These efforts exemplified her dedication to nurturing intergenerational connections and expanding the students’ sense of purpose and community responsibility, solidifying her role as a vital presence in their lives.
12. **Participation in Later NCAA Tournaments**Sister Jean’s unwavering support for the Loyola Ramblers extended to their subsequent NCAA Tournament appearances, despite her advancing age and, at times, health considerations. Her presence continued to be a source of inspiration and strategic insight for the team.
In March 2021, at the age of 101, Sister Jean made the journey to Indianapolis to support the Ramblers in the NCAA Tournament, after receiving her full vaccination against Covid-19. Although she utilized a wheelchair due to a hip fracture, she remained a visible and vocal presence, sitting in the upper stands at Hinkle Fieldhouse, embodying her enduring commitment.
Her strategic contributions were particularly notable during the 2021 tournament. Having meticulously researched the Illinois team, a No. 1 seed the Ramblers were set to face, Sister Jean observed that Loyola had “a great opportunity to convert rebounds” given Illinois’ unimpressive shooting percentages. This astute observation proved prescient, as Loyola notably outrebounded Illinois en route to a decisive 71-58 victory. The Ramblers’ unexpected victory against Illinois propelled them to the Sweet 16, though their run concluded with a loss to Oregon State in the subsequent game. Sister Jean’s analytical prowess remained sharp, offering valuable perspectives that augmented the team’s preparation.
13. **Health Issues, Retirement, and Continued Advisory Role**As Sister Jean approached her 106th year, health challenges necessitated a modification of her active roles within Loyola University Chicago. In August, she stepped down from her official duties, though her connection to the university and its basketball program remained undiminished.
Despite her formal retirement, the university announced that she continued to serve as an adviser during the final months of her life, a testament to her enduring wisdom and the high regard in which she was held. This advisory capacity ensured her invaluable insights and spiritual guidance remained accessible to the community she so deeply cherished.
Loyola University Chicago President Mark C. Reed formally announced her passing on Thursday, October 10, 2025, acknowledging the profound loss to the university community. “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,” Reed stated, underscoring her unparalleled contributions and the indelible mark she left on countless lives. Her legacy, Reed noted, was a source of “great joy,” and her spirit, he affirmed, would continue to resonate throughout the lives she touched.
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14. **Lasting Legacy of Wisdom, Compassion, and Unity**Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt’s life, spanning more than a century, cultivated an extraordinary legacy characterized by wisdom, unwavering compassion, and a remarkable ability to foster unity. Her impact extended beyond the confines of a university campus or the fleeting glory of a basketball tournament, touching lives across generations and diverse communities.
President Mark C. Reed articulated this enduring influence, stating, “Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community and her spirit abides in thousands of lives. In her honor, we can aspire to share with others the love and compassion Sister Jean shared with us.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of her contribution: a radiant example of selfless devotion and heartfelt connection.
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Her profound personal impact was perhaps best summarized by former Loyola guard Derek Molis, who recalled her solace during his mother’s death. Molis shared, “Most of the world knows her from the fame perspective… The rest of us simply know her as Sister Jean, the one person we knew we could always count on.” He added, “I’ll tell Sister Jean stories till the day that I die,” a powerful testament to the deep, lasting bonds she forged. Sister Jean, the centenarian nun, embodied the spirit of hope, connection, and purpose, leaving an indelible mark as a mentor, confidante, and spiritual guide whose enduring legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.
