Archbishop Tobin
View photos of the celebration
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College celebrated the opening of the 2013-14 academic year on August 26, 2013 in a special way.
Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., of Indianapolis, presided over mass and two special blessings in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Conservatory of Music and Guerin Hall.
To the faculty, staff, students, alumnae, trustees and friends, he stressed thankfulness. During his homily, he said, “Accept that our lives make a difference to ourselves and to those around us. Be conscious of what God has given you and give thanks…for thanks is true wisdom. There you will find true joy.”
Tobin remarked about the work of the College. “Opening of the minds of young people today is an incredible mission.”
Dottie L. King, Ph.D, president of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College said, “The beginning of the academic year is always an exciting time,” said “We are grateful to Archbishop Tobin to make this a memorable occasion for our campus, the Sisters of Providence and the campus community.”
Celebrating the college’s landmarks gives the campus community an opportunity to look back.
“It is a time to reflect on all we have achieved together,” added King. “While these buildings are architectural gems, we reflect on the learning and personal growth that took place within these walls. We look forward to continuing this success for a new generation of students as we begin another academic year.”
During the blessing ceremony, King praised the faculty and staff who challenge students to stretch their minds and deepen their spiritual values. “I celebrate the students are forever changed by their walk in The Woods.”
About the Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin
Appointed archbishop in October 2012, Archbishop Tobin previously served as secretary of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the Holy Redeemer College, Waterford, Wisc., in 1977 and, in 1979, a Master’s in Religious Education and the Master of Divinity (Pastoral Theology) at the Mount St. Alphonsus Seminary in Esopus, N.Y. He speaks English, French, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish.