Alumni Spotlight
July 2023
Maura McGuire Chamberlin, Class of 1976
Why did your family choose Kennedy for your education?
My parents, Dr. Thaddeus and Kathleen McGuire, were dedicated to the Catholic Faith and the Catholic education system. They provided Catholic education to 8 siblings (5 girls, 3 boys) from grades 1-12.
What is your favorite Kennedy memory?
There are so many but one of the top memories was the spirit and pride shown by students at athletic events. Football and basketball games both were a place where you met classmates and screamed our heads off in community and spirit. Returning to JFK to ring the Victory Bell in the courtyard with the team, families and students was a blast.
Did you have a teacher or class that was a major influence on you?
Mr. Layshock was my biology teacher and was the reason I chose my first career as a Registered Dietitian. He was the BEST science teacher I have ever had who inspired me to pursue this first career.
Education/Professional Experience:
What career did you choose and tell us a little bit about how you got there.
I graduated with a B.S. in Science in Nutrition from Miami University in Oxford OH, followed by an internship in Columbus Ohio to complete my certification. I worked with an endocrinology team at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago specializing in Type 1 Diabetes. I had interactions with many patients including women who were diagnosed with gestational diabetes and I also assisted in research studies tracking the influence of fiber in blood sugar control and Hemoglobin A1C control.
After moving to a northern suburb of Chicago, I got involved as a volunteer with fundraising events at our church parish (St. Joseph’s, Libertyville IL) and the local Catholic high school (Carmel Catholic) were our daughters attended. Based on those experiences, I went on to full-time positions in development with two Catholic girls high schools (Woodlands Academy and Regina Dominican). This work played a huge role in my retirement to continue to use my gifts as a fundraiser for St. Clare’s Home in Greenville SC (where we relocated).
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
For the last 25 years, I have been involved with nonprofit development for all girls Catholic Schools in the Chicago area. This was very rewarding work as it was faith based and supported high schools focused on the mission of all girl’s education. I now use those gifts to continue to support women and children at a nonprofit in Greenville. St., St. Clare’s Home.
St. Clare's Home is a maternity home for expectant mothers who choose life and are in need of shelter, safety, and security. During their stay, moms are educated on parenting skills, Catholic family planning, and independent living skills. Women are mentored to launch independently to live outside the home, manage a family and maintain a job with confidence.
I am very proud to be able to serve St. Clare’s Home using my previous experience in development/fund raising to assist those in need.
What is a specific piece of advice you would give to a Kennedy senior?
Use your strengths to pursue your dreams and focus on the gifts God has given you to better the lives of others in whatever career you choose.
