Since arriving at Loyola in 1985, Pat Salvaty has been called many things, from Mrs. Salvaty to a “lifesaver” to the Greatest of All Time. However, for the past four years, I have been the only one on campus with the privilege of calling her my grandma.
My grandma is a prime example of a woman for others. Whether she’s delivering delicious homemade cookies up to the Kairos retreat center or helping out a confused freshman in the Learning Center, Mrs. Salvaty’s acts of kindness always make sure that people feel seen and appreciated.
Frank Kozakowski, former principal and current Director of Admissions, who technically hired her over 40 years ago, agrees.
“Mrs. Salvaty is one of the nicest people in the world,” he said. “I will deeply miss seeing her smile around this campus.”
Working in the Student Center from 1985 until 2018, Mrs. Salvaty was the face of Loyola to generations of Cubs. Seriously, if any of you reading this have a dad or uncle who went to Loyola during that time, ask them about Mrs. Salvaty’s legendary-ness. After moving to an office in the Center for Service and Justice for the 2018–2019 school year and switching to a three-day-a-week schedule, she still managed to impact students at her new post.
“Mrs. Salvaty never failed to offer a cheerful greeting to any student in the Center for Service and Justice, no matter if she knew them or not,” said Connor von der Ahe ’25. “She’s an amazing person to talk to, and she really cares about getting to know you as a person, not just a student.”
My grandma has been an integral part of my Loyola experience—but she’s also been there for thousands of other Cubs over her four decades at 1901 Venice. I’ll never take for granted the fact that I get to see her every day at school, and watching her treat every Cub with the same care she’s shown me has been truly special.
As she retires this spring, alongside my own graduation, I know the campus will not feel the same without her. But even after she leaves, Mrs. Salvaty’s presence will be felt on campus anytime someone chooses to take time out of their day to help someone out, offer a word of kindness or simply get to know someone new.
