Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, a 105-year-old nun, is eagerly looking forward to the new basketball season at Loyola University in Chicago. Known as the “basketball nun,” she has been the team’s chaplain for 30 years and gained fame during the 2018 NCAA basketball tournament when the Loyola Ramblers made it to the Final Four. Sister Jean, as she is affectionately known, leads the team in a pre-game prayer and is considered like another coach by the players due to her extensive knowledge of basketball. Despite her age, she remains active, commuting to campus from her apartment at least five days a week to offer advice, support and hugs to students. Sister Jean celebrated her 105th birthday with multiple parties organized by the university and the community where she lives.
As a member of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Sister Jean has spent her life working as a teacher, administrator, principal, and sports coach. She attributes her longevity to her love for being around young people, stating that they keep her alive, healthy, and vibrant. She believes that her interactions with students are fulfilling and have contributed to her never regretting not having children of her own. After attempting retirement at the age of 75 in 1994, Sister Jean found that she missed working and has continued to serve as the chaplain for the men’s basketball team. She encourages people to have a purpose in life and make a change if they are unhappy with their job.
Sister Jean emphasizes the importance of constantly moving forward and adapting to modern technology and changes in the world. She refers to adaptability as her “superpower” and urges people to stay updated with the news to avoid getting left behind. The centenarian also credits her longevity to inheriting good genes from her father’s side of the family, where several relatives lived into their 90s. She advocates for taking care of oneself through prayer, reflection, and maintaining a positive attitude towards life.
Sister Jean maintains a joyful and grateful outlook on life and believes in the power of positivity and gratitude. She starts her day with meditation at 5 a.m. and ends it by reflecting on the good deeds she has done each day. The nun suggests eating in moderation, enjoying a balanced diet, and not stressing too much about food choices. Despite being more relaxed with her diet in recent years, Sister Jean’s birthday meal included her favorite dishes, including chicken fricassee, homemade noodles, peas, and pound cake.
Having never experienced depression, Sister Jean credits her positive mental health to her parents and siblings, who fostered a happy and supportive environment during her upbringing. She recalls their encouragement to strive for success and believes that their positivity has influenced her outlook on life. Although her parents and brothers have passed away, Sister Jean continues to feel their presence and often speaks to them. Through her unwavering optimism and love for sports, she continues to inspire others and spread joy among those she encounters.
