2021 Spiritus Franciscanus Award

May 12, 2021

The Spiritus Franciscanus Award is presented to a member of the Briar Cliff University community who practices our university values and visibly reflects the lives and character of Saint Francis and Saint Clare. 

This year's recipient started work at Briar Cliff relatively recently. They head up a relatively small department. Despite this, they have had a large impact on a large number of individuals. They have helped elevate Franciscan values on our campus, providing encouragement and also encouraging reflection. A nominator suggested that she reminds us of the bigger picture of life and why we are all at BCU. 

She has been a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, Iowa for 33 years. She has served as a member of the Congregation's Franciscan Charism Team, working in vocation and formation ministries. Her background also includes ministry as an English and theology teacher in Catholic secondary schools, English and Spanish teacher in the Georgia public school system, Parish Faith Formation Director and Pastoral Associate in Multi-Cultural Parishes, and Director of Novices for the Third Order Regular Franciscan Common Novitiate in St. Louis, Missouri.

She earned her Ph.D. in Practical Theology from St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, Florida, A Master's in Divinity from Loyola University in Chicago, Illinois; and a Master's in Education and Bachelor of Arts from North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega, Georgia. 

She is currently our Vice President of Mission Effectiveness and Leadership and previously served as a member of the Briar Cliff University Board of Trustees from 2017-2019. 

It is our pleasure to present the 2021 Spiritus Franciscanus Award to Sr. Pat Doody.