Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, affectionately known as Sister Jean, is retiring from her long-held role as the team chaplain for the Loyola Chicago men’s basketball team. This decision comes at the age of 106, following a recent announcement that she is unable to attend her birthday celebration due to health concerns. The news was shared by the university’s student newspaper, as well as confirmed by Vice President of Communications Christian Anderson.
Sister Jean, who became a staple of the college basketball community, was first appointed as the team’s chaplain in 1994. Her tenure has seen the Ramblers become a formidable force in college basketball, with one of their most memorable moments being the 2.5-point upset victory over Villanova in the 2018 NCAA tournament, which earned her national acclaim. Her presence on the court during the game, where she was just 103 years old and had her wheelchair wheeled into the arena, became an iconic moment that continues to be celebrated.
Despite her age, Sister Jean has maintained a lively and active role with the team, traveling to tournaments and making appearances, such as her appearance on the Fox & Friends show in 2023. During that appearance, she shared her philosophy on living a long and healthy life, emphasizing the importance of a good diet, rest, and faith. Her recent inability to attend her birthday on campus was accompanied by a message to the students expressing her sadness at missing the occasion, but also her hope that they would still celebrate.
The university has confirmed her retirement without providing further details about her health status, respecting her privacy. Her retirement signals the end of a chapter for the Loyola Ramblers, as she steps away from her cherished role to focus on her health. The team and the broader community have expressed their gratitude for her contributions and the inspiration she has provided. While her physical presence may no longer be on campus, her legacy as a symbol of resilience, faith, and determination will undoubtedly continue to be felt within the Loyola community and beyond.