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Community Service & Action

Staff: Claire Noonan

CSA Story Header for Claire Noonan; a headshot image on a maroon and gold background

Claire Noonan
she/her/hers
Vice President for Mission Integration
BA in English & Religious Studies, Catholic University of America
MDiv, Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley
DMin, Catholic Theological Union (concentration in spirituality)

Where are you from? 
The Chicago area. I live in Oak Park now.

What do you like to do in your free time? 
Visit with friends, read, walk, travel.

Why do you support Loyola in its community engagement work?
Engagement with the community is an essential dimension of Loyola’s mission and identity as a Jesuit, Catholic university. 

What is one of your favorite stories from your experiences with community engagement?
Once upon a time, I used to direct Loyola4Chicago. I absolutely loved the work – which was most directly with our student leaders. It was a great joy to see how students continued their dedication to community service and action beyond graduation in some powerful and extraordinary ways.

What is your favorite thing about the work you do?
Inviting people to connect with their deepest calls to purpose and relationship. 

In the spirit of Sr. Jean and her belief in the goodness of people that she shares in her book, “Wake Up With Purpose,” where have you seen the goodness of others in your community engagement experiences?
Everywhere!  A recent example—I serve on the Board of Christ the King Jesuit College Prep (a school in Austin following the Cristo Rey model)—and was asked to help write a new vision statement for the school. We had a junior student on the committee. Listening to him thoughtfully reflect on his experience of CTK, and his dreams for his fellow students coming up after him was powerful! He was so generous with his time and wisdom. His perspective in large measure shaped the statement which was eventually approved by the Board and will guide the school’s strategic planning for its next chapter of service to the Westside.

What is your favorite place on campus?
The benches on the lakefront—especially on a warm and breezy summer day. 

What advice would you give to a student looking to get involved?
Jump in! You will be welcomed warmly, and find joy and companionship quickly. You’ll learn a lot and be challenged to grow immensely.