President Jonathan J. Sanford, Ph.D. | University of Dallas website

Jan 25 2024

Pat Hooker and her daughter Judy, both graduate students at the University of Dallas, are taking their journey through the Ann & Joe O. Neuhoff Institute for Ministry and Evangelization together. What initially started as a way for Pat to support Judy, who is a special needs learner, has turned into a unique and fulfilling experience for both of them.

Pat felt the need to refresh and deepen her Catholic faith, and she wanted a program that could accommodate her busy schedule as a caretaker. Judy, inspired by her mother, decided to join the Neuhoff program as well. They scheduled all their courses together, initially as a way to support Judy. Pat was concerned about how the graduate program would handle an adult special needs learner like Judy.

However, Pat and Judy have been amazed at how the University of Dallas has embraced them. Judy feels like an active participant in every course, and the professors have been helpful and considerate without lowering their expectations. This has made a significant impact on Judy, who loves the classes and is thriving in the program.

In their online courses, Pat and Judy sit together at the same computer to keep each other focused. However, in their on-campus classes, they prefer to sit on opposite ends of the room. They still do all their homework together and rely on each other for support and encouragement.

Lucy Gutierrez-Olvera, the enrollment manager and instructor at the Neuhoff Institute, has played a crucial role in Pat and Judy's journey. She advises them on course selection and registration and considers the Hooker family a unique testament to the love between a mother and a daughter.

The completion of their certificates in pastoral ministry is an exciting accomplishment for both Pat and Judy. However, they both plan to continue their education at the University of Dallas even after finishing the certificate. They have a love for learning more about their faith and appreciate the opportunity to ask any question at any time.

The Neuhoff Institute for Ministry and Evangelization at the University of Dallas offers continuing education courses taught by nationally recognized faculty. These courses are conveniently offered online, onsite, and in satellite locations in both English and Spanish.

The University of Dallas is a premier Catholic liberal arts university known for its rigorous curriculum. It offers robust graduate and professional programs in various fields, including business, ministry, education, and the humanities. The university is committed to providing an education that forms students intellectually, socially, and spiritually.

Pat and Judy's story is just one of the many unique stories behind the Neuhoff certificates. These certificates attract students from different backgrounds, ranging from recent college graduates to retirees who want to deepen their faith. The Neuhoff Institute provides a platform for personal growth, professional ministry, and transformative service to the Catholic Church and the broader Christian community.

The bond between Pat and Judy as they navigate their graduate program together is a testament to the power of family and the pursuit of knowledge. As they continue their educational journey, they serve as an inspiration to others who strive to learn and grow in their faith.

Joe Toates is a freelance writer currently earning his Master of Humanities at the University of Dallas. He enjoys reading, writing, and helping his students do the same.

For more information about the Neuhoff Institute for Ministry and Evangelization, visit udallas.edu/ministry. To learn more about the University of Dallas and its programs, visit udallas.edu.