I often see the University of Dayton’s Catholic, Marianist spirit in the grand moments — such as when thousands gather at UD Arena for New Student Orientation Mass.
This week, I experienced a smaller, quieter moment that showed the heart of our Marianist charism — and what makes life at this university so meaningful to so many.
Around a conference room table, more than a dozen faculty and staff from different parts of campus came together for “Coffee and Charism.” It’s more than just a coffee break — it’s a space for deep conversations about faith, purpose, and how our work together connects to UD’s mission. This is a small, open faith community where all are welcome, bonded by a shared commitment to living out the Marianist philosophy in our daily lives.
Jennifer and Jack Dalton, a mother-son duo, began the informal coffee hour to extend their faith-centered conversations at home to the campus community.
“When I was an undergraduate, I’d come home and we’d reflect on where we saw the Marianist charism on campus — and where we didn’t. We wanted more voices in the conversations, so we took the show on the road,” said Jack, a two-time UD graduate and lay Marianist who now works as a senior business analyst in UDit.
On the day I joined the monthly, informal gathering, Jennifer, longtime director of the dietetics and nutrition programs and a Marianist Educational Associate, nourished our spirits with the reminder that “we are not meant to journey alone.”
She then shared the prophetic wisdom of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, founder of the Marianists, who wrote that “faith is nurtured in community, where we challenge, support, and uplift one another.” She reflected on Mary’s life — her “yes” at the Annunciation, her presence at the foot of the Cross, and her faithfulness to the early Christian community.
Her words sparked a free-flowing, rich discussion about how we’re present to one another’s needs, particularly in times of challenge. Where do we find joy and hope?
“I’ve been around students lately who are on fire with their faith,” shared Christina Klimo, Write Place coordinator and student success coach. “It’s inspiring — and a source of joy and faith for me.”
LeeAnn Meyer, assistant director of Marianist strategies for student programs, will accompany four students to a retreat on Governor’s Island at Indian Lake, where they will discern whether to become lay Marianists. “The great joy of what we do,” LeeAnn says, “is walking with students.” Added Caroline King, graduate assistant in campus ministry who directs the Chaminade Scholars program: “There’s a light in students’ eyes when they see parts of their lives reflected in the charism.”
Others appreciate how their colleagues continually step up to offer support. “For me, the charism is all so new, but it’s a beautiful experience,” said Cynthia Sanford, administrative assistant in the International Marian Research Institute. She recently received invaluable budget advice through a group chat with other colleagues: “We support each other, lean on each other. It’s welcoming and helpful.”
Shawna Collins, asset management specialist in UDit, started an Excel and Google Sheets users group to help create greater efficiencies across campus. “In a community, I don’t have to know it all. By bringing together people of all ability levels, someone will know what to do,” she said. “We’re given grace to try things slightly outside our lanes.”
As I listened to my colleagues share their stories, I realized we’re united by a shared calling. We build community by building relationships, one at a time.
That’s the Marianist charism at its core — and it’s where I find the most joy and hope.