Meet 21 Women Leading Ignatian Ministries

This Women’s History Month, we are highlighting the work of just a tiny percentage of the women leaders who serve the church and the world through their leadership in Jesuit and Ignatian ministries. These leaders shared a bit about their work and how Ignatian spirituality shapes their lives. They also offered their perspectives on ways the Jesuits can continue to improve how they welcome, empower and support women leaders.

Institution Loyola High School
Title President
Location Detroit

Deborale Richardson-Phillips, Ph.D.

Other Jesuit institutional connections:
Previously served as vice president of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Saint Ignatius High School in Cleveland.

What does your job entail?
I serve as Loyola’s chief executive and mission officer. I’m responsible for collaborating with key stakeholders to shape the school’s strategic direction, ensure its financial sustainability, and uphold its commitment to forming “Men for Others. Men For Detroit” who act with integrity, compassion and courage.

These collaborations lend themselves to the development and implementation of policies and experiences that advance the school’s mission. In addition to administrative duties, the position plays a pivotal role in fundraising and resource development, working to secure financial support and build partnerships that enhance the school’s personnel, programs and facilities.

What is your favorite part of your job?
I am honored and humbled to serve as the president of Loyola High School in Detroit. I must admit, the best part of every day is the students. My absolute favorite part of the job is witnessing the transformation of young men as they grow academically, spiritually and personally in a faith-driven, Jesuit tradition. Loyola’s commitment to education and formation is truly inspiring, and seeing students embrace the mission whether through service, leadership or personal growth is incredibly rewarding.

I also love the strong sense of community. I enjoy working alongside dedicated faculty, staff and families who all genuinely believe in our mission.

How does Ignatian spirituality shape your approach to work?
Ignatian spirituality profoundly influences my leadership, especially considering the unique challenges our students face in an urban setting. As I lead with reflection and discernment, I prioritize thoughtful leadership, making decisions that align with both the mission of the school and the needs of the students.

A focus on cura personalis means paying particular attention to the intellectual, emotional and spiritual well-being of students. A holistic student-centered approach is needed in urban settings where students may face economic hardship, violence or systemic inequities.

Ignatius taught the significance of openness to where God is leading — “holy indifference.” In an ever-changing urban landscape, it’s imperative that I’m adaptive, innovative and resilient in responding to challenges such as shifts in policy, funding shortages, donor base or student needs that could significantly impact our ability to achieve our mission.

What’s one of your favorite quotes about leadership or the best leadership advice you’ve ever received?
“The best leaders are servant leaders — they serve those they lead.”
–Tony Hsieh, former CEO of Zappos

I’m committed to serving the student body, ensuring that every decision and action contributes to their comprehensive growth and the fulfillment of the school’s mission.

This style of leadership extends to supporting faculty and staff, recognizing that their well-being directly impacts student success.

Servant leadership in Detroit means recognizing its rich history, embracing its spirit of resilience and using leadership to create real, lasting change it can be proud of.

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