Monsignor James Michael Doyle, a retired pastor in the diocese, was recently honored by the University of South Dakota for his years of service to the school as chair of religious studies and director of the USD Newman Center.
During USD’s spring commencement, Msgr. Doyle was the featured commencement speaker and was also presented with an honorary doctorate in Humane Letters.
Msgr. Doyle told the graduates that the letters that represent their alma mater should “suggest three words” to the graduates: “U” for understanding, “S” for sincerity and “D” for destiny. He pointed out to the graduating seniors that “your understanding curve has not spiked yet. It has only just begun.”
He added how the “attractive quality of sincerity may well help separate your future career from being just adequate to being exceptional.”
And, as for destiny, he pointed out to each one in the assembly, How “you are the only person on this planet who has control of your own destiny.”
Msgr. Doyle spent 12 years in service to the university from 1967-1979.
During his tenure at USD, students twice voted him “Outstanding Teacher of the Year.”
He also received the annual Distinguished Service Award before leaving the university. Each year the USD faculty selects the award recipient.
While retired, Msgr. Doyle continues to serve parishes on a fill-in basis and assists the bishop when asked to serve.