Mary Beth Yount

Dr. Mary Beth Yount is a Professor of Theology and holds the Irene S. Taylor Endowed Chair for Catholic and Family Studies at St. Vincent College’s School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Her interdisciplinary work bridges theology, ethics, and pastoral care, with a focus on lay ecclesial ministry, migration, and family dynamics.

She earned her PhD in Theology from Duquesne University, MA from St. Mary’s University (TX), and BA from University of St. Thomas (TX). Her research explores Vatican II’s legacy, papal social teachings, and the role of laity in church reform. Notably, she received the Benemerenti Medal from Pope Francis for service to the Catholic Church.

Yount has supervised over 20 doctoral/master’s dissertations and edited the Journal of Pastoral Care & Counseling. Her public theology writings appear in National Catholic Reporter and America Magazine, addressing issues like sanctuary policies and undocumented student rights. She also advises the US Conference of Catholic Bishops and Vatican dicasteries.

Her recent publications (2020–2024) analyze lay ministry evolution, papal migration teachings, and synodal church reforms. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to theology, ethics, and global Catholicism.