Prolific Theologian Receives Arrupe Award (Photos)

Members of The University of Scranton community gathered in Leahy Hall’s Kane Forum on Tuesday, Feb. 17, for the annual presentation of the Pedro Arrupe, S.J., Award as part of the monthly Jesuit Spirituality Luncheon. 

This year, the University presented the Arrupe Award to M. Shawn Copeland, Ph.D., professor emerita of systematic theology in the Department of Theology at Boston College.

At the ceremony, Dr. Copeland presented a lecture called "Healing and Creating in History: The Redemptive Praxis of Christian Community,” providing members of the Scranton community an opportunity to hear her discuss her work and philosophy.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Dr. Copeland received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1969 from Madonna College and became a Felician religious sister.

For four decades, Copeland taught courses in theology at institutions across the United States and conducted field-defining research at the intersection of the Catholic, Black and Feminist traditions. Her books include "Enfleshing Freedom: Body, Race, and Being (2010)" and "Knowing Christ Crucified: The Witness of African American Religious Experience (2018)." In addition to her work in the academy, she has also lectured at parishes across the country.

The University of Scranton established the Arrupe Award in 1995 to recognize individuals who have furthered in a significant way the Ignatian mission. It is named for the late Very Rev. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., the 28th Superior General of the Society of Jesus and sometimes referred to as its “second founder.”