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Dr. Mary Beth Yount chosen to fill SVC’s Irene S. Taylor Endowed Chair for Catholic and Family Studies

Dr. Mary Beth Yount chosen to fill SVC’s Irene S. Taylor Endowed Chair for Catholic and Family Studies

by Public Relations | June 17, 2024

LATROBE, PA – After completing a national search, Saint Vincent College has selected Dr. Mary Beth Yount to fill the Irene S. Taylor Endowed Chair for Catholic and Family Studies.Dr. Mary Beth Yount

“Dr. Yount stood out because her extensive teaching experience, research and community service are all directed toward strengthening Catholic family life,” said Dr. Patricia Sharbaugh, associate professor and Chair of the Theology Department in the School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. “We are excited to welcome her because we know her gifts, talents, and experience will be an asset to our department and enrich the lives of the students at Saint Vincent.”

Dr. Yount holds a Ph.D. in Catholic systematic theology from Duquesne University, with specialization in ethics and practical theology. During her time as professor of theological studies at Neuman University, Dr. Yount served as director of content and programming for the 2015 World Meeting of Families and Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia.

A consultant to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Dr. Yount serves as a delegate at relevant Vatican events. Named one of “Philadelphia’s Most Interesting People” by NBC-10, her work has been featured by more than 100 media outlets, secular and Catholic. In addition to her role as editor of the “Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling,” Dr. Yount is writing a book that examines how relationships, rituals, sacraments and signs contribute to identity formation and cultural transformation, especially in a family context.

While completing her doctorate degree, Dr. Yount founded and directed Brookline Kids Preschool in Pittsburgh. She has been granted more than $500,000 for various community projects. Dr. Yount also was chaplain at the Philadelphia Children’s Hospital where she completed a Clinical Pastoral Education program.

The Irene S. Taylor Endowed Chair for Catholic and Family Studies was established to support and advance Catholic values to strengthen families in response to the challenges of contemporary society.

The chair is named in honor of the late Mrs. Irene Taylor, mother of Saint Vincent College President Fr. Paul Taylor, O.S.B., C’87, S’91. Mrs. Taylor was a devout Catholic, an accomplished and respected nurse and a loving mother. When asked about the keys to raising a strong and loving family, she was confident in saying: “Love them. Feed them. And want them around.” That commitment lives on through this professorship and is reflective of the mission of Saint Vincent College.

 

PHOTO: Dr. Mary Beth Yount

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