Brigid Shea ’82

Distinguished Alumna Award honors an alumna who has distinguished herself for outstanding achievements in her chosen profession and has made a lasting contribution in her field as a role model and leader for all alumnae.

Alumna Profile: After leaving a promising career as a radio journalist in the 1980s, Brigid became an activist for nuclear disarmament and against climate change. She was on hand for the culmination of the Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces Treaty between the U.S. and Soviet Union, led a nationwide campaign to ban ozone-depleting chemicals, and was the driving force behind passage of the strongest water-quality ordinance in the nation. Read more. 

Dr. Giavana Bain Jones ’02

Benedictine Service Award honors an alumna who has made a significant impact on those around her for her continued commitment and contributions to community service and social justice at a regional, national or international level. Also demonstrates a commitment to the Benedictine spirit of giving hospitality, love of others, listening and social stewardship.

Alumna Profile: As a program officer at First Trust Bank in her native Bahamas, she serves as trustee of the Templeton Religion Trust, which funds projects, programs and research that help understand the impact of spirituality on human life. She is equally engaged and valuable in her role as a practicing psychologist as well as in her many volunteer efforts, including programs that invest in learning opportunities for Bahamian children, young adults, families and communities. Read more.

Jackie Carlson Hayden ’12

Decade Award honors an alumna who is recognized by her peers as a great role model and leader for younger alumnae because her outstanding career achievements, representing global consciousness and community involvement in her chosen profession.

Alumna Profile: Just 10 years removed from Saint Ben’s, where she graduated with a degree in peace studies, Jackie is a college and career coordinator at Brooklyn Center Community Schools. In seven years, she has helped students from the most diverse high school in the state achieve more than $14 million in grants and scholarships. As someone with outstanding achievements in her field and a passion for her community, she provides a role model for graduates of Brooklyn Center High School as well as those following her at CSB. Read more. 

Jona Turner Van Deun ’92

Sister Emmanuel Renner Award honors an alumna for her service to the College of Saint Benedict and recognizes her contributions as a leader, steward and volunteer to her alma mater.

Alumna Profile: The S. Emmanuel Renner Award is an honor that is not bestowed annually but is given to those who have gone far above and beyond with extraordinary, well-rounded service to the College of Saint Benedict. The award recognizes significant contributions as a leader, steward and volunteer to her alma mater. Jona is an active trustee, chaired the joint academic affairs committee for several years and is one of the key figures behind the efforts of Strong Integration. She is a Bennie mentor and has provided financing to send students to the Public Leadership Education Network conference. Read more.