School of Arts and Sciences
History Department
  S. Mary Brendan O’Brien, CSFN, MA
FACULTY INFORMATION
S. BRENDAN HOME
 
CONTACT
Office: HFH319
Phone: 267-341-3279
Email: srbrendan@holyfamily.edu
 
COURSES
HIST109A
HIST203A
 
PROJECTS
In Memoriam
History Glossary
Holy Family University Time Line
 
 
S. M. Brendan O’Brien, CSFN, MA
School of Arts & Sciences
History Department
Holy Family University
9801 Frankford Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19114
267.341.3279
http://web3.holyfamily.edu/srbrendan
Last updated: January 2008
 

Some of my earliest childhood memories are recollections of pleasant learning experiences, friends, and teachers I liked and admired. It didn’t surprise my family and friends when I pursued a career in education, since it seemed like a perfect fit for me; and I have been fortunate to be able to spend many years engaged in a profession that I enjoy so much and that, I hope, has helped others in their journey through life.

More important in my life, however, has been my membership in the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. For me, this association began forty-two years ago, when I sought admission to the order and commenced a journey that has been sometimes difficult and bewildering, and other times filled with a great sense of accomplishment and peace. My odyssey of ministry as a sister has taken me to a hospital and a child care institution for short periodic assignments, and to many schools where I have worked with countless youngsters and their families in a variety of positions within the education profession. Along the way, I have had the prayers, support, and companionship of my sisters.

I currently work at Holy Family University where I have taken on a few assignments since I joined the institution in 1994. Right now, I am fortunate to be able to go back to my first love, teaching, and work with young folks as they try to wade their way through the ups and downs of contemporary student life. Many have multiple responsibilities besides their studies. Like them, I am studying also – in the eLearning program at Drexel University where I am working toward a degree in library and information science. I hope to begin a new academic experience within a library setting after I complete my studies at Drexel.

I love reading, especially historical novels and drama, and I like to clear my mind occasionally by watching a good movie or some TV. I also enjoy cooking – as long as it remains a hobby and not a job. Unfortunately, between studying, teaching, and other responsibilities, I don’t always allow as much time as I would like for these simple pleasures in my life.