Dominican University dedicated its new turf field and track on September 30, 2023, in honor of long-time University President, Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P., Ph.D. The modern, NCAA regulation-size turf field, with a six-lane track surrounding the field, replaces the old grass field near Forkel Hall. The project also included the installation of permanent bleachers, a press box, and a new scoreboard.
The O’Brien Field was named in recognition of Sr. Mary Eileen’s visionary leadership and service. She served as president from 1978-1987 and again from 1997 to the present day. Under her leadership, the campus expanded and modernized, undergraduate academic programs broadened, and graduate programs in education, business, nursing, OT and PT were established. Sr. Mary Eileen also led the effort for the institution to be upgraded to university status in May 2022.
“Sr. Mary Eileen is not only an amazing leader, but an amazing person. She has been involved and donated her time to many local organizations,” said Steven Sabatini, Chair of the Board of Trustees, at the O’Brien Field Dedication Ceremony. “Given her many years of dedication and service to Dominican University, it is only fitting that this field would bear her name.”
The University’s men’s and women’s soccer and lacrosse teams, as well as men’s and women’s cross-country and track and field teams now have a modern track and field on campus and no longer have to frequently travel off campus as they often did when the field was in disrepair. With the increase in games and meets on campus, it is also easier for student spectators to attend events and support Charger athletes.