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Alum Highlight Announcement

SOT/Sem Alum Returns to Admission Office

February 11, 2025 • 2 min read

Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary announces a new hire in the Admission Office,  Bernadette Donlon.

Bernadette brings a dynamic set of gifts and skills to admission work in the School of Theology and Seminary (SOT/Sem). She is a 2021 graduate (BA) of the College of Saint Benedict with majors in Communications and Theology. She is a 2023 graduate (MTS) of Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary with a concentration in Systematic Theology. She brings a strong understanding of Saint John’s mission, which is grounded in the Benedictine and Catholic tradition.

“Bernadette personifies so many of the wonderful qualities we see in SOT/Sem students, and she excels in communicating those with perspective students”, said Shawn Colberg, Dean of Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary. “She understands the nature and professional value of theological education, including the distinctive advantages of Saint John’s.  And that all in addition to being a wonderfully-trained theologian in her own right.”

While earning her MTS degree, Bernadette worked as a student intern in the Admission Office and later undertook an internship with Liturgical Press.

“After multiple years of consecutive growth in our enrollment, Bernie’s hiring represents an important and strategic investment by the School of Theology and Seminary”, said Director of Admission, Alex Blechle. “While many graduate theological schools divest from their residential experience, Bernie’s particular role will look to sustain and grow our residential community here in Collegeville, which is particularly centered around prayer, communal life, and academics.”

Since graduating from the School of Theology and Seminary, Bernadette has served as Digital Marketing Strategist for the Liturgical Press and most recently worked as a Digital Communications and Program Coordinator for New Ways Ministry. 

Reflecting on this transition, Bernadette said, “I am thrilled to be returning to Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary in this role. The work of guiding others in their process of applying and joining the Saint John’s community is an honor to participate in. It is a gift to be welcomed back home in this capacity.”

Please join us in welcoming Bernadette into her new role as Associate Director of Admission.