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Pat McDonnell was a part of the FDU-Madison athletic staff for
34 years and still remains a great friend and supporter of Devils
programs. Pat started working for FDU on November 11, 1963 and
worked in the office for the Campus Provost and General Services
for a year, before moving to the Athletic Department. She was
one of just two full-time members of the FDU-Madison athletic
staff as the secretary (with fellow Hall of Famer Robert Shields
being the other). She continued in that role until Shields' retirement
in 1989 and remained the secretary under William T. Klika until
1995 when she was promoted to Administrative Assistant to the
Department of Athletics. Through the years, thousands of athletes
and many coaches have come to know "Mrs. Mac" and usually
come back to visit the Athletic Department, and with so many
changes over the years there has always been a constant with
Pat greeting them at the door. Her familiar smile has been a
signature sight for people to see when they visit the Department
of Athletics. Pat was always more than just a secretary to members
of the athletic staff and the athletes, but also a special friend.
It didn't matter if you were younger or older, Pat was always
there to offer advice or an ear to for you to voice your problems
to. She never judged anyone and could always see the good in
someone or something. Above all things, Pat just wanted people
to achieve success and have fun. One thing can be said, though,
"Mrs. Mac" always knew how to have fun and stay positive.
Pat is one of the most unselfish and giving people to ever walk
the planet and anyone who has had their life touched by Pat McDonnell
should feel honored. |
