Rosemont College is proud to celebrate an outstanding academic achievement by Professor Joanne Campbell. She recently presented her research at the 2026 History of Women Religious in Britain and Ireland (H-WRBI) Conference held at Queen Mary University in London. This international gathering brought together scholars focused on the history and contributions of women religious, making it a prestigious platform for Professor Campbell’s work.
A Compelling Paper on Sacred Space & Pedagogy
Professor Campbell’s paper, titled Gaudium et Spes: Stewarding Sacred Space: Postdigital Ecopedagogy, Women Religious, and the Built Environment of Rosemont College, explored how the physical campus of Rosemont functions as more than a backdrop for learning. Drawing on the concept of postdigital ecopedagogy and the history of the Sisters of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus (SHCJ), who founded the College, she argued that Rosemont’s architecture, landscape, and gardens serve as active agents in education and formation.
The paper demonstrated that Rosemont’s built environment has long operated as a living pedagogical space, fostering experiential learning and ecological engagement for generations of students. This innovative perspective connects historical research with contemporary educational theory in a meaningful way.
Grounded in Extensive Research
Professor Campbell’s analysis is the result of more than a decade of dedicated archival and ethnographic research. Her work includes study at the Cornelia Connelly archives at the Cherwell Centre (University of Oxford) and extensive fieldwork at SHCJ educational and heritage centers across England, Ireland, Italy, France, and Kenya.
Combined with her long-term teaching experience at Rosemont, this rich body of research gave the presentation both depth and authenticity.
On her social media posts, Professor Campbell gave special thanks to Suzanne Cawley for recording and photographing the journey, as well as to Rosemont’s Cultural Heritage team for their ongoing support of this important scholarly work.
We are incredibly proud of Professor Campbell for representing Rosemont with distinction on an international stage. Her work not only advances scholarly conversations but also deepens our collective appreciation for the sacred and educational spaces that define our campus.
Congratulations, Professor Campbell, on this well deserved recognition! Your research continues to inspire students, colleagues, and the broader academic community.
The Rosemont Experience
At Rosemont, we believe that no matter what discipline you study, effective communication and problem solving are cornerstones to success. That’s why students take classes across multiple disciplines—to learn to approach complex situations from multiple angles. We also recognize the importance of real world experience in preparing you for a career. In fact, every student engages in at least one internship, volunteer effort, or service learning opportunity.
In the Heart of Suburban Philadelphia's Iconic Main Line
- Beautiful 58 acre Main Line campus located in serene suburban Philadelphia.
- Current students have access to world class advanced degree programs through exclusive partnerships.
- Rooted in Catholicism we welcome all faiths and beliefs.
- Coveted 11:1 student to faculty ratio providing an unparalleled educational experience.
- An average class size of 13 ensures a high caliber, personalized education.
