Sister Donna Marie Gribschaw '74, CDP

Sister Donna Marie Gribschaw '74, CDP is the Provincial Councillor for the Sisters of Divine Providence.

Why did you choose La Roche?

I entered the Congregation of the Sisters of Divine Providence on Sept. 8, 1968. the University was entering its fifth year and, at that time, all new Community members were enrolled at La Roche unless they were going to pursue a degree not offered at the University. I was going to study mathematics and become a teacher. La Roche was the perfect place for me.

How did your degree help you advance in your career?

Once I completed my degree, I had the desire to work in a college or university some day. I taught third grade and realized my need to advance to high school. I spent the majority of my teaching career in high school and, in 1988, my dream to work in a college or university was realized when I began a position at the University of Pittsburgh. I was the mathematics specialist and managed the tutoring and Undergraduate Teaching Assistant Program for five years.

Eleven years later, I was hired by La Roche and worked with Lance Schaffer as Assistant Director of the Learning Skills Center, training students to be tutors and launching the Supplemental Instruction Program for the University. Both positions were extremely rewarding. Had I not had the desire to minister with the Sisters of Divine Providence in Puerto Rico, I probably would have been employed by the University a little longer than five years.

What impact did La Roche have on you as a person?

The University was much smaller when I attended. Quiet and introvert by nature, I felt right at home in the small classes. Faculty was accessible, I could participate in study groups with others in my class, and I always felt encouraged to participate, share my thoughts, give my opinion and feel valued.

Are you involved in any volunteer service projects?

I have participated in many direct service projects in the past. I've organized service trips for high school students, and I've volunteered in not-for-profit organizations. Sister Nelida Naveros Cordova, CDP and I, along with additional chaperones, took 18 students to Peru in 2010 for 10 days of service. I also accompanied a group of students to Lewiston, Maine to work with people from Somalia. Sister Ida Mary Lutz, CDP and I took a group of seven high school women to Fayette County to engage in various community service projects with children and at other social service agencies.

I also believe that my ministry for five years in Puerto Rico and as Campus Minister at Sacred Heart School in Kingston, Mass. strengthened my commitment to be of service to others. Both of these experiences were also ways in which I was able to bring my community’s mission of “co-creating a world of compassion, justice and peace" alive in my own heart and in the hearts of others.

What advice do you have for our students?

Ponder your dream! Offer your gifts and talents to a world waiting for your energy, compassion and spirit of justice. Go and make a difference in our world.

To use a saying that Lance Schaffer always used, "Carpe Diem! Seize the Day!" Be a citizen of the global community. Live with compassion, justice and peace.

Why would you recommend La Roche to a prospective student?

The mission and vision of La Roche University is compelling and timely for the third millennium. La Roche is making a name for itself as it commits to educate women and men to be leaders in our global society.