Meet the Team

Marissa Papula, Director of Campus Ministry

Marissa Papula is a leader, storyteller, and practitioner of cura personalis who believes in the power of faith to embolden imagination, ignite social change, and transform lives. As Director of Campus Ministry at Loyola Marymount University, she oversees one of the largest spiritual initiatives in higher education, forming students as contemplatives in action through the variety of programming and communities we're proud to offer here at LMU.

Before coming to LMU, Marissa spent several years at Boston College overseeing Kairos, guiding hundreds of students each year through an experience of deep reflection, community, and encounter. She holds a master’s degree in theology and ministry from Boston College, along with a postgraduate certificate in spiritual direction. Her obsession with Jesuit education traces its roots to her undergraduate years at the University of Scranton.

Marissa serves on the Vision Team for the Jesuit Media Lab, helping to shape innovative storytelling in the Ignatian tradition. A writer, speaker, and public theologian, her work explores themes of sacredness in everyday life. Her writing has appeared in America, Catholic Women Preach, Everyday Ignatian, and Bearings Online.

Hailing originally from New York’s Hudson Valley, Marissa enjoys poetry, barre fitness, strong coffee, local bookstores, and finding God in all things through her infant son.

Joey Abeles, Coordinator for Jewish Student Life and Hillel Advisor

Joey.Abeles@lmu.edu, 310-258-5486

Joey Abeles is a Jewish educator passionate about bridging divides and bringing the joy of Jewish living to everyone. Joey is a Los Angeles native and graduate from UCLA, where he studied Psychology and Religion, and he is thrilled to lead Jewish life and Hillel at Loyola Marymount University!

For the past five years, Joey lived in St. Louis, where he served as the director of Hillel and assistant director for community and spiritual engagement at Maryville University. In that role, Joey worked to elevate Jewish life, introducing novel programs including "Shabbatukkah" (a celebration of Shabbat and Hanukkah), the weekly Jewish Learning Fellowship, trips for campus leaders, and interfaith engagement opportunities. A spiritual practitioner of mindfulness and Mussar, Joey also developed a year-long “My Best Self” Mussar curriculum to help college students develop life skills such as growth mindset and anxiety management practices.

Seeing the danger that toxic polarization poses to our society, Joey promotes productive conversation across differences, including through dialogue facilitation work with Resetting the Table. Joey focuses especially on conflict mediation within the Israel/Palestine conversation, navigating charged conversations within the Jewish community. Joey holds a certificate for mindfulness facilitation from the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. Beginning in the fall of 2025, Joey is a student at the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies at American Jewish University, where he is training to become a rabbi and more fully integrate the vast body of Jewish thought to his programming and thought-leading efforts.

Jonas Bognar, Campus Minister for Liturgy

Jonas.Bognar@lmu.edu, 310-338-7534

Jonas hails from Orange County, California, and has been involved in liturgy, music, mentoring students, and parish life for more than two decades in both the Diocese of Orange and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. An LMU graduate in Theological Studies and History (Class of 2000), Jonas worked in LMU Campus Ministry as the Head Sacristan and a Resident Chaplain in McKay Hall until moving to Belgium for his graduate and doctoral studies in Theology and Church History at the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven. After 12 years abroad, he has rejoined Campus Ministry, working on the Liturgy Team, assisting with Faith Formation in the RCIA and Confirmation programs, and serving as a Resident Minister.

Chris de Silva, D.Min., Associate Director of Campus Ministry

Christopher.deSilva@lmu.edu 310.338.2976

Chris de Silva is a widely published composer of sacred music whose music appears in hymnals and compilations throughout the world. A native of Singapore, he currently resides in Los Angeles where he enjoys serving as music minister on the campus ministry team. Chris holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition and Film Scoring from the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music, a Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology from Loyola Marymount University and a Doctor of Ministry from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. In addition to his role in Campus Ministry, Chris also lectures in the Department of Theological Studies at LMU.

Fr. John Galvan, S.J., Campus Minister for Weddings, Worship, and Latinx Outreach

John.Galvan@lmu.edu, 310.338.2862

Fr. John oversees the wedding ministry at LMU, guiding and assisting those couples who wish to celebrate their nuptials in one of our chapels on the Westchester campus. Another facet of his work as campus minister is providing outreach to the Latinx community at LMU. Fr. John joined the Jesuit order in San Juan, Puerto Rico where he completed his novitiate studies. Afterwards, he earned his degree in philosophy from the Instituto de Filosofía in Guadalajara, Mexico and his Master’s in Divinity from the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley California. He has completed other studies in Ignatian spirituality in Salamanca and Manresa Spain.

Previous work experiences include working with Jesuit Refugee Services as a chaplain at immigration detention facilities, as associate pastor in parishes in San Diego, California and Portland, Oregon and as an instructor in Ignatian spirituality at Loyola Institute of Spirituality in Orange, California. Fr. John enjoys reading books on the Classics, history, as well as novels from a wide range of authors. Other interests include movies and binge watching on TV.

Will Gish, Senior Administrative Coordinator

William.Gish@lmu.edu, 310.338.2860

Will was born in mid-air, as his mother leapt from a pirate ship in the midst of a frenzied battle at sea. Deposited on the closest island (which happened to be a penal colony) by a benevolent shark, he began his journey through life sword fighting black-hearted pariahs on that dastardly speck of land surrounded by the unforgiving sea.

Will is a LMU alum (MFA '15) who came to Campus Ministry from the Marymount Institute for Faith, Culture, and the Arts, where he worked on events and publishing. Previous to that, he was a member of the Research and Educational Technology Services & Support team in ITS at LMU.

Will earned his BA from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, with a year spent abroad at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. He is an avid reader, cinephile, and music lover who spends most of his free time with his kids, who he frequently takes to the local gaming store to buy supplies for their epic D&D campaign.

Diana Hadjiyane, Campus Minister for Retreats

Diana.Hadjiyane@lmu.edu, 310.338.3005

Diana Hadjiyane, a native New Yorker and graduate of Boston College Clough School of Theology and Ministry, has followed a passion for the power of retreat-ministries to join the LMU Campus Ministry team. After attending and leading many retreats during her time at Boston College, where she graduated with both her B.A. in Philosophy and Psychology and her M.A. in Theology and Ministry, Diana is excited to see how retreat programs can continue to enliven the hearts of LMU students, steering them towards compassion, community, and authentic relationships. Specifically, her goal is to see how retreats as spiritual spaces can allow folks to feel free to bring forth their truest selves and become awakened to how deeply they are loved. As a member of the Greek Orthodox Church, Diana has served as a Youth Outreach Coordinator for an Orthodox Parish while exploring different pathways to uplift and engage in interreligious, ecumenical dialogue. Her academic and pastoral passions center around moral theology, with a focus on re-envisioning ethical theories to foster ministerial spaces of radical hospitality.

Beyond her professional life, you can find Diana embracing her Greek heritage in her love of cooking and baking, where she specializes in spanakopita (Greek spinach pie) and sourdough bread. She loves all things philosophy (specifically the ancient Greeks), board games, 80s rock, and building community, and she is overjoyed to be a part of the team!

Allie Holmquist, Campus Minister for International Immersion

Allie.Holmquist@lmu.edu, 310.338.7160

Allie was born and raised in Long Beach, CA. She attended Regis University, where she received her dual bachelors in Peace and Justice Studies and Sociology. Allie holds a Master of Development Practice from Regis University and a Master of Divinity from Boston College’s Clough School of Theology and Ministry.

As a student at Regis, Allie experienced an international immersion for the first time in El Salvador & Guatemala. This experience ignited her heart to live a faith that seeks global justice. After graduating, she worked as the university minister for liturgy at Regis. Allie’s personal mission in ministry is always to strive to be and to create brave spaces for all identities to encounter the Divine.

Allie's top interests (ministerially & generally) include: The intersections of sustainability & spirituality, racial justice, eco-justice, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, feminist theology, theologian Elizabeth Johnson, her cat Hugo, husband Zach, nephews & nieces, anything Taylor Swift/Maggie Rogers/Florence & the Machine/boygenius/Chappell Roan, pop culture, and watching reality TV.

Campus Minister for Ecumenical Student Life

Ramsey.Jeanty@lmu.edu, 310.258.4664

Ramsey Jeanty brings over a decade of experience in higher education, where he has dedicated his career to creating welcoming, inclusive spaces for students. A native of Miami, Florida and a first-generation Haitian American, Ramsey is deeply committed to celebrating the diverse cultural and spiritual backgrounds students bring to campus. He holds an MA with an emphasis in expository preaching and is currently completing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. This blend of pastoral care and counseling informs his approach to ministry, rooted in empathy, cultural competence, and understanding mental health.

Ramsey has led educational and service trips to Haiti, El Salvador, and Honduras, experiences that have deepened his commitment culturally competent programming. In his role as Campus Minister for Ecumenical Student Life at LMU, he is honored to walk alongside students in their personal and spiritual growth. When he's not welding or studying, Ramsey is enjoying his newest hobby, Brazilian Jiujitsu, boxing, or basketball. He also enjoys standup comedy and listening to hip hop and r&b music like H.E.R, Tobe Nwigwe, J$PH, LaRussell, and Cleo Sol.

Sr. Maria Lai, C.S.J., Campus Minister for Graduate Student Ministry

Maria.Lai@lmu.edu, 310.338.6475

Sister Maria is called to journey with our graduate students at LMU. She is also a Spiritual Director, a Resident Minister, an adjunct instructor for the Theology of Ignatian Leadership course at LMU, as well as for the Catechist Certification Course for the Diocese of Orange. Sister Maria is originally from Hong Kong. She earned an MA in Pastoral Theology from Loyola Marymount University, an MA in Learning Technologies from Pepperdine University, and an MS in Family Consumer Sciences from California State University, Northridge. Most of all, Sister Maria enjoys being a mentor for and learning from the survivors of human trafficking. She loves people and organizes pilgrimages.

Dónal P. Noonan, Campus Minister for Music and Liturgy

Donal.Noonan@lmu.edu, 310.568.6131

Dónal P. Noonan is a music minister, educator, and choral director with over 20 years of experience in music ministry and nonprofit leadership. Originally from Ireland, he has dedicated his career to using music as a bridge for community building and education in the United States, serving diverse communities in Florida, Georgia, and now Southern California.

Dónal holds a Master of Arts in Music & Music Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies. Before joining Loyola Marymount University, he led music ministries in Atlanta, GA, including serving as Director of Music Ministries at the Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and as Archdiocesan Choir Director for the Catholic Archdiocese of Atlanta. A sought-after speaker and conference facilitator, he has presented at Chorus America, NPM (National Association of Pastoral Musicians), and the Presbyterian Association of Musicians.

As the founder of the Atlanta Homeward Choir, Dónal pioneered a groundbreaking musical initiative that collaborates with individuals who have experienced homelessness, harnessing the power of music to foster hope, healing, and community. He currently serves on the National Council for NPM and is the newest member of the Advisory Council for the Irish Studies Program at LMU.

Beyond his professional work, Dónal enjoys exploring Los Angeles’ vibrant food scene, attending concerts and art exhibits, and staying connected to the local Irish community through cultural events, traditional music sessions, and storytelling gatherings. He finds joy in discovering the city’s rich tapestry of cultures while staying deeply rooted in his Irish heritage.

Flor Ordoñez, Campus Minister for Faith, Service, and Justice

Flor.Ordonez@lmu.edu, 310.338.7597

Flor is an L.A. native and proud first-generation college graduate. She is proud of her parents immigrant background and loves to represent her Mexican/Guatemalan heritage. Her passion for service and justice that is faith based and embodied, first came alive when she encountered the sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet. Through them Flor was taught what a true act of mercy can be and how to love one's neighbor. Flor graduated from Mount Saint Mary's University in Los Angeles where she earned a B.A. in Fine Arts. During her time as an undergraduate, she was heavily involved in a variety of their campus ministry programs. Which has led her to follow a vocation within ministry.

Flor is the self-professed office goth, whose favorite colors are black, midnight black and void black. She enjoys a variety of music ranging from Beyonce to Florence and the Machines. She has a penchant for oddities and baking and can often be found making concoctions for the team to try. She loves board games, books and movies and is adventurous with food.

Kienan Taweil, Interim Associate Director of Campus Ministry, Muslim Student Life, and Interfaith Initiatives

Kienan.Taweil@lmu.edu, 310.338.5390

Kienan Taweil earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Loyola Marymount University in 2019. During his time as a student, he was Co-Founder and Co-President of LMU’s Muslim Student Association. Prior to his current role as Coordinator for Muslim Student Life and Interfaith Initiatives, he served as a student Program Assistant in the newly established office.

Kienan works to promote the faith formation of the Muslim students on campus through Islamic pastoral support. He also develops programs that promote spiritual growth, personal development, diversity, leadership, interfaith understanding, and community involvement. He leads weekly Friday-Jummah Prayer services on campus and regularly engages in interfaith work. Coming from a multi-ethnic and multi-faith family inspires Kienan to promote interfaith dialogue built on understanding and love for our neighbors.

In his free time, Kienan enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and watching movies. A Los Angeles native of Syrian and Hungarian heritage, Kienan is also an avid reader who enjoys reading about politics, history, and theology.

Campus Minister for Christian Life Communities

Victoria.Zobrist@lmu.edu, 310.338.5225

Victoria oversees the Christian Life Community (CLC) small faith sharing group program and assists with Campus Ministry retreats. Victoria grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. She attended the University of San Diego for her undergraduate studies, where she earned a BA in Theology and Religious Studies, with minors in Catholic Studies and Philosophy. Victoria also attended Boston College, where she received her MA in Theological Studies, with an emphasis in Historical-Systematic theology. She cites Boston College as the place where she developed her love of Ignatian Spirituality and her desire to minister to students in higher education. Prior to LMU, Victoria worked at a university in Omaha, Nebraska, where she served as the Director of Campus Ministry and an adjunct theology professor.