Lori Dougherty ‘12

“I’m going to make a difference in this world and I’m going to begin with our future leaders,” says Lori Dougherty, sophomore student in St. John’s University’s School of Education.

During her senior year of high school, after receiving the Catholic sacrament of confirmation Lori’s faith became the focal point in her life. “After Confirmation, I joined my church’s youth group and became really involved in the community. I wanted to continue serving the community with others my age who shared many of the same beliefs and desires that I had - so I applied to St. John’s.”

St. John’s commitment to helping the poor and disenfranchised along with the success of its Division I women’s cross country team attracted Lori to the University. The sophomore education major from East Patchogue, New York is now a distance runner for St. John’s women’s cross country/track and field team.

“The cross country/track and field team provides a lot of opportunities for women. The coaches are dedicated and determined to seeing each athlete improve and compete at their top levels. I’ve improved my race times tremendously and have developed amazing friendships with my teammates.”

Along with being a student and athlete, Lori is also an active member of several on-campus organizations including The School of Education Dean’s Scholars, the S.T.A.R. Program and the Education Society.

“People ask me how I do so much, but it’s really all about great time management skills and going after the things you want in life. Being involved in a number of different organizations has given me the opportunity to develop my sense of self and has opened the door to endless possibilities.”

Before coming to St. John’s, Lori had planned to follow the typical path of an education major and become a high school history teacher - but The School of Education exposed her to the countless opportunities available within the education field.  

“At first I wanted to teach high-school history, but college has opened my eyes to the wide variety of professions that are out there. I could be like Richard Sinatra, Ph.D. and start an amazingly popular literacy summer program that works with underprivileged students (After-School All Stars), or live in France and be part of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.”

Lori believes with the help of St. John’s faculty and staff, there’s no telling how far she will go. “The School of Education is made up of helpful individuals who are truly interested in seeing students pursue their dreams. They go above and beyond to make sure students have the best college experience available.”