William C. Sennett Institute for Mercy and Catholic Studies
To this end, the Institute for Mercy & Catholic Studies Work highlights the breadth and depth of the Catholic intellectual tradition, as well as the five critical concerns of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas:
- Caring for the Earth
- Caring for immigrants
- Combating racism
- Promoting non-violence
- Caring for women
University Affiliation: Saint Mary’s College
University Affiliation: Boston College
Organization: Homeboy Industries
University Affiliation: Loyola Marymount University
University Affiliation: Mercyhurst University
University Affiliation: Fordham University
University Affiliation: Boston College
University Affiliation: Washington Theological Union
Organization: National Catholic Reporter
University Affiliation: Fordham University
Institute History
The Institute for Mercy and Catholic Studies owes its birth to the generosity of two Erie Catholics and college trustees: William C. Sennett and Charles A. Dailey, Jr.
Dr. Mary Hembrow Snyder, Professor of Religious Studies, was the first person to serve as Director of the Institute for Mercy and Catholic Studies. A member of the faculty of Mercyhurst University from 1986 to 2020, Dr. Snyder has a doctorate in theology from St. Michael's College, University of Toronto, and has authored/edited four books, including Joan Chittister: Essential Writings (2014) and Awakenings (2022), both edited with Mary Lou Kownacki and published by Orbis Books.
The current director is Dr. Elizabeth M. Pyne, who joined the Mercyhurst faculty in 2021.
Elizabeth Pyne, Ph.D.
Director, Institute of Mercy & Catholic Studies
Office: Preston 207