Cavanaugh Hall

Originally from the Dominican Republic, Marlyn Batista was raised in Providence, Rhode Island. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from Northeastern University. After graduating, Marlyn served as the coordinator of outreach ministries at St. Patrick Church in Providence. In this role, she oversaw the daily operations of the parish meal kitchen and food pantry. Additionally, Marlyn served as a youth minister and worship leader at a local parish. Marlyn also taught high school religion at St. Patrick Academy. It was there that Marlyn discovered her passion for the ministry of Catholic education. This passion led Marlyn to pursue a Master of Divinity degree at Notre Dame. During her time in graduate school, Marlyn served as a program assistant for the Center for Social Concern’s summer service-learning program, an assistant rector in Cavanaugh Hall, and a course facilitator for the Camino program at the McGrath Institute for Church Life. Marlyn loves anything that makes her laugh, and she also enjoys naps, good food, and movies.

In sharing her thoughts on becoming a rector, Marlyn said: “I have never seen residential life done the way that it is done at our Lady’s University. During my time as an assistant rector, I was blown away by the comprehensive way in which rectors can care for and accompany students throughout their time at Notre Dame. For this reason, I am ecstatic to serve as the new rector of Cavanaugh Hall, my home. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to continue sharing life and walking alongside all the women of Cavanaugh as they are formed in both mind and heart. Go Chaos!”