The beginning of a new semester is an exciting time — but it can also be an anxious and stressful experience for some.
In addition to the many resident assistants, each residence hall has a hall minister to provide pastoral care and be a spiritual presence for all residents and building staff.
In collaboration with the staff, hall ministers are charged with helping form a residential community that expresses the university’s Catholic, Jesuit mission, while accompanying individuals dealing with stress, illness, loss, loneliness, relationships, spiritual and emotional health, and more.
In this Q&A, Holly Danielle, hall minister for Abbottsford Hall, talks about what she likes the most about Marquette University and Milwaukee.
What was your undergraduate degree in? Why did you pursue that discipline?
I completed a B.S. in biology, a B.A. in humanities, with double minors in chemistry and communications.
My favorite undergraduate classes were anatomy and physiology (while working with cadavers), and field botany while collecting, dissecting and preserving over 80 flowers; I came to know and worship God more through studying nature. A big part of the humanities credits came from music classes. I now must seek out Mozart’s “Requiem” performance every few years!
Why did you want to be a hall minister?
I’ve come to love the work of Dr. Susan Miller, author of “The Awakened Brain” and “The Spiritual Child,” who shares noteworthy research on spiritual development in young adulthood. Accordingly, I desire to support Marquette students to further grow in inspiration, wholeness, and connection along the Way.
What makes Marquette special to you?
I love Jesuit spirituality in higher education and have great respect and enjoyment for Jesuit scholars. Of note, I am currently following the works of Francis Clooney, S.J.
I also feel a deep joy and peace in Milwaukee and am grateful to explore more of this area!
While at Marquette, I hope to get more exposed to and engage with Jesuit scholars, Jesuit spirituality, and the history and community of Marquette University.
What is your favorite memory made at Marquette or in Milwaukee?
I’ve had the privilege of spending three years with the Yama Yoga community in the Third Ward. Marietta Pucillo and her partner Jay have been selfless pillars in Milwaukee’s yoga community for over 20 years. While Yama Yoga officially closed its doors in May, I give thanks to God for the privilege of developing in and being with this circle of believers over these years.
What is one thing you’re looking forward to this academic year?
I’d like to take a deeper contemplation of pursuing a Ph.D. In the footsteps of Dr. Miller and/or Father Clooney. I also desire to support Marquette students to further grow in inspiration, wholeness and connection along their way.
Favorite book, movie or podcast?
As a Protestant Christian believer, I especially follow Daniel Batarseh, Gary Hamrick, David Guzik and Baruch Korman. My favorite movie is “Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken,” from 1991; on the ‘other side of that coin,’ one of my favorite books is “The Pursuit of Happyness” by Chris Gardner.
Favorite location on campus?
The outdoor space around the St. Joan of Arc Chapel is so beautiful.
Favorite hobby?
Yoga and being in nature!
Favorite restaurant in Milwaukee?
Vientiane Noodle Shop and Tricklebee Cafe
Favorite dessert?
Pretty much anything with apples and cinnamon, oranges and cranberries, chocolate and/or lemon.
