Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

I am delighted to announce that Dr. Paulette Kidder is the 2019-2020 recipient of the James B. McGoldrick, S.J., Fellowship. Named for a beloved Jesuit who devoted a half century of his life to Seattle University, the fellowship recognizes an extraordinary faculty member who embodies the mission and values of our institution. The McGoldrick Fellowship, the most prestigious award we confer upon our faculty, includes a quarter or semester sabbatical, and Dr. Kidder is a most deserving recipient.

Currently the director of the Matteo Ricci Institute and associate professor of philosophy, Dr. Kidder has been on SU’s faculty since 1989. She teaches courses on health care ethics, ethics of food, 19th century thought, feminist moral theory and the philosophy of Martha Nussbaum. Her research and numerous publications have focused on bioethics, philosophy and literature/film, contemporary continental philosophy and the dialogue between Catholic thought and contemporary philosophical movements.

Dr. Kidder’s considerable contributions as a teacher-scholar are rivaled by her incredible service to the university. Much as Father McGoldrick guided our institution through times of transition and challenge, Dr. Kidder has, time and again, answered the call when our university has needed her most. After having served as associate dean and interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, she was appointed interim dean of Matteo Ricci in 2016 and, with a steadying hand, she led the college through its transition to the institute that she now directs.

Colleagues and students alike value Dr. Kidder for her warmth and compassion and her principled and visionary leadership. She not only espouses but truly lives out the highest ideals of our Jesuit educational mission.

We will have the opportunity to officially honor Dr. Kidder as the recipient of the 2019-2020 McGoldrick Fellowship at our Faculty and Staff Appreciation Event in May. For now, please join me in congratulating Paulette Kidder and expressing gratitude for her commitment and service to Seattle University.

Sincerely,

Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J.
President