Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM, on her birthday in 2023.
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A Message from President Reed | Happy 106th Birthday, Sister Jean

August 21, 2025

Dear Loyola Community, 

Happy 106th Birthday, Sister Jean!  

Today, we celebrate not only this remarkable milestone, but also the wisdom, hope, and joy Sister Jean shares so generously with us. Her ministry of presence has touched thousands of lives—students, faculty, staff, alumni—across more than six decades at Loyola and Mundelein College. We are deeply grateful. 

While Sister Jean is no longer able to be physically present on campus, she remains a beloved friend, trusted advisor, and loyal Rambler—cheering for our teams and praying for us all daily.  

We invite you to send Sister Jean a birthday message here and read her message below. 

Thank you, Sister Jean, for the many blessings you bring to the Loyola community. 

Sincerely, 

Mark C. Reed, EdD 

President 

A message from Sister Jean on her 106th birthday

President Reed; Loyola Students, Faculty & Staff; Members of the Board of Trustees; BVM Community; and Friends: 

Yes, it is my 106th birthday. Birthdays are special days, and this one is also very special. In fact, I am unable to be there because I have a bad summer cold and other health issues so it has been decided that I should not go to Lake Shore Campus to be with you on my birthday. That makes me very sad, but you can still celebrate. I want you to enjoy the treats and the new Sr. Jean pin. 

To the Students:  

Make new friends. Talk to your old friends. Enjoy your move-in and your preparations for class. 

I will be with you in spirit and love and prayer. These things are very important in your life as you adjust to your new “home away from home” at Loyola University. Your parents have entrusted you to our care. We appreciate that trust. We know that you will live by it and that you will become the people that you want to be, the people that God has decided you will be. Yes, you have to be yourself.  

It has been wonderful for me to be with you these years and to watch you grow spiritually, intellectually, and socially, and to see the friends you’ve made. And to see the progress you’ve made in your academic life. I’ve always been happy to share my time with you. 

Let your dreams become reality. Don’t let anybody stop you. You are the future leaders of our churches, our schools, our country, and our world. I wish you success during the 2025/2026 academic year. 

Although this year I am unable to be at the party with you in person, I celebrate with you in spirit.  

God bless you and Go Ramblers! 

Sr. Jean