Emily Jendzejec

Emily Jendzejec, Ph.D., specializes in the intersection of Catholic theology, religious education, and young adult ministry. As a religious educator, she is interested in developing transformational experiences that respond to the changing demographics and needs of Christian communities in the twenty-first century. Her research concern focuses on how to engage young adults in faith development in an era characterized by religious disaffiliation and spiritual seeking. Her research in this topic area has been published in refereed journals (Religions, Journal for Catholic Higher Education) and popular publications (Resources,Young Adult Ministry in a Box).

Dr. Jendzejec informs her scholarship through her pastoral experiences. She has worked for a faith-based non-profit in young adult ministries, served as a young adult minister in a Roman Catholic parish, and was a Catholic chaplain on a multifaith college chaplaincy team. In addition to her service with young adults, she has also been the executive director of the Ignatian Spirituality Center, an ecumenical retreat center with a particular focus on supporting spiritual seekers of all faith backgrounds.

Professional Memberships

College Theology Society

Religious Education Association

The International Association for the Study of Youth Ministry

Awards

Kelly Frailing Excellence in Online Teaching Award, December 2024
Loyola University New Orleans

Faculty Award of Excellence, May 2024
College of Nursing and Health
Loyola University New Orleans