Maria Peden: A Living Embodiment of Magis and Our Lady’s Virtues

Magis, defined as striving for the greater glory of God and serving the universal good, is woven into the fabric of our community. We see it everywhere—on the field, in the classroom, and even in the quiet spaces where dedication often goes unnoticed. One such space is the newly renovated college counseling office in Moran Hall, where Mrs. Maria Peden embodies magis through her tireless service, humility, and love.

I actually heard about Mrs. Peden before I met her. I was on campus during the summer setting up my technology when someone pointed out the old college counseling conference room. They told me Mrs. Peden had to office there the previous year due to a lack of space and Covid restrictions. They added, “I don’t know how she officed in there for a whole year, but she is amazing and never complains about anything.”

As I soon learned, this statement is so true. She never speaks an unkind word, complains, or criticizes, but she is quick to offer prayer for those in need. When someone asks for a favor or a task to be completed, Mrs. Peden is the first person to volunteer. She will joyfully offer to substitute for anyone’s class, and many times, she will offer to substitute for all the classes needed. She is truly a woman for others.

She is a giver, working tirelessly for her students, often arranging meetings after hours and over the weekend. Her care for others does not stop there. She gives of herself at home with her husband and the many pets they have taken in. She is a sacristan at the Co-Cathedral, and she has recently started prison ministry for juveniles in the justice system. 

I thank God that I can count Mrs. Peden among my friends. I could not have found a more genuine person than that of my colleague. She is the heart of college counseling, a fierce spiritual warrior for all of us, and a true example of living faith. With her rosary always close, Mrs. Peden’s daily prayers and devotions keep her eyes fixed on Christ and guide others toward Him. She regularly asks me how I am doing and how she can pray for me. She follows up on my challenges and inspires me to grow in faith and resilience.

I often think about how blessed we are to have St. Ignatius of Loyola, a soldier, as one of our patrons. He is a relatable saint for our students, embodying courage, transformation, and devotion. St. Ignatius famously laid his sword before Our Lady of Montserrat, dedicating his life to her guidance. Like St. Ignatius, Mrs. Peden shares a profound devotion to Our Lady, who is the ultimate soldier for Christ. I once heard that the sword of Our Lady is humility, obedience, and love. Mrs. Peden exemplifies these virtues in her daily life, serving as a true witness to Our Lady’s grace and unwavering faith.

To many, Mrs. Peden is a friendly face on campus. But to those who know her, she is a powerful reflection of Our Lady’s virtues and a true embodiment of magis. Her tireless dedication, unwavering faith, and profound love for others glorify God and inspire all who are blessed to know her.