Jennifer Holton Tacheny ’95 exemplifies the transformative power of a liberal arts education rooted in Benedictine values, showcasing how a foundation of faith, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to community can inspire a life of purpose, sustainability, and service to others. With a bachelor’s degree in social work from Saint Ben’s and a master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from SJU/SOT, Jennifer has dedicated more than two decades to integrating theology, spirituality, social justice, and sustainability into her personal and professional life.
A Passion for Sustainability and Community
Jennifer and her husband, Steven, embody their commitment to sustainable living through their small organic vegetable farm, which they run during the summer months on their family land in Mankato. As graduates of the Land Stewardship Project’s Farm Beginnings program, the Tacheny family’s work reflects their dedication to sustainable agriculture and care for the Earth.
Jennifer’s passion for the environment extends beyond the family farm. She collaborates with the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet (CSJs), creating spirituality and direct service programs for young adults through urban community gardens and the St. Kate’s/CSJ Access Hub. Additionally, she serves as the spiritual retreat leader for the CSB Eco-Spirituality Dogsled Retreat, which takes place every other year in Ely, MN, at Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge. This unique retreat, owned by SJU alum Paul Schurke ’77, combines eco-spirituality and the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s north woods to offer CSB Alumnae an immersive, reflective experience.
The Saint Ben’s Experience: A Foundation of Adventure and Values
Jennifer chose CSB for its intimate size, strong academic reputation, athletic opportunities, and connection to nature. Her college years were defined by a spirit of adventure and possibility, exemplified by one unforgettable night in 1991. After returning from a soccer tournament in Chicago during the legendary Halloween blizzard, Jennifer and a teammate braved the whiteout conditions on mountain bikes, exploring campus under the storm’s veil. “The memory symbolizes the adventurous spirit of possibility held in those college years,” she reflects.
The Benedictine value of stability has deeply influenced Jennifer’s life and career, grounding her work in sustainable agriculture and land stewardship. Among her mentors at Saint Ben’s, Artist in Residence Richard Bresnahan left the most profound impact. His Artistic Lifestyles course encouraged Jennifer to view life through a lens of environmental sustainability and artistic expression—a perspective that continues to shape her family life and career.
A Life Guided by Benedictine Values
For Jennifer, the values she encountered at CSB have been guiding principles in her decision-making. Stability, environmental sustainability, and art have informed her professional endeavors and family life, enriching her commitment to community and the planet.
Jennifer’s journey is a testament to the enduring influence of a Saint Ben’s education. Her work inspires others to connect spirituality with sustainability and to live out the values that make a lasting impact on the world.