A Conversation with
Kathleen Hummel, MSW, PhD
, St. Thomas Aquinas Class of '83
1. What is the legacy of St. Thomas Aquinas in your life today?
When I think of the legacy of Aquinas in my life today, many thoughts come to mind. One is the support I felt surrounding me in every aspect that I ventured into at Aquinas. I developed some deep friendships and I am grateful to have several relationships that flourish to this day. The teachers at STA allowed me opportunities to grow and taught me valuable lessons that still influence my decisions. The coaches were also a considerable influence and modeled the spirit of Team and what it means to be part of a team! I reached out to some classmates and asked for their feedback regarding the legacy of STA in their lives. It was clear that we shared many thoughts including valuing diversity; understanding core Catholic values; and, treasuring a sense of community.
2. How does Jesus impact what you do?
Our Savior’s call to action through the Gospels has made a significant bearing on my daily life. I’m blessed to be a part of a local St. Louis program that serves young children and families that have been impacted by abuse, neglect and mental or behavioral health needs. Our Little Haven was founded on, and continues to be guided by, Christ’s invitation to serve those that need some extra help.
My upbringing could have taken a different turn very easily. However, the “Jesus Impact” is obvious as my mom stayed strong in raising us in the Faith. My decisions today are rooted in the example she provided and the strong faith base she established which continues to guide my family today. I desire to try to walk in His shoes (or sandals) everyday!
3. What has been the role of Catholic education in your life?
My experience has allowed me an opportunity to understand that a Catholic education encourages learning about the “whole” - not just numbers, letters, and language but about the whole person, the whole community, the whole universe. Having a conversation or lesson that does NOT include a Creator-God is not allowing for a whole picture to develop. It’s like a bike that is missing a piece – it may work and is OK, but the call for More makes that bike whole, beautiful and exceptional.
Desiring more for our children encouraged us to allow our children to experience a Catholic education – on both an elementary school and high school level. Seeing our children’s response as they continued their Christ-centered education at the higher education level (Rockhurst University) clearly indicated the “Jesus Impact” on their decisions to do More and to be men and women for and with others.The foundation of a Catholic education encourages me to comfortably ask questions, seek answers, and do more for others.
4.
Connecting that legacy to today's church in St. Louis--how do you stand on the shoulders of others and how are others standing on yours, such as the tradition that Trinity has inherited from Aquinas?
Being a person of God, the invitation to celebrate and develop community is clear to me. And as a part of a community, there is a clear opportunity to appreciate those upon whose shoulders you stand; and, there is a clear invitation to be willing to allow others to stand on my shoulders. You can see this all through my high school experience – each companion,helping with each other’s efforts to be a better person.
At STA, there were many strong and faithful shoulders upon which to stand. I saw it clearly at class retreats and service projects. Now my shoulders are available and as I try to lead by example, I invite others to reach for more and to use my shoulders as a stepping stone.I try to emulate those who have taught me that in your most challenging times and your most joyous times, there is a loving God, our lives are gifts to be shared, and that our God has a Plan which includes joy.
