Sincere, considerate, generous, kind, strong, supportive, wise, compassionate, dependable, loyal, encouraging, empathetic, authentic, respected, attentive, gracious, devoted, passionate, funny, enthusiastic, understanding, witty, charismatic, committed, beloved. 25 words gathered from various students and faculty to commemorate 25 years of Dean Deb’s dedicated and influential service to the Saint Viator community.
After serving as Dean of Students since August of 2000, Dean Deborah Scerbicke retired at the end of the fall semester. She leaves behind a legacy spanning over two decades, touching the lives of countless individuals.
Dean Deb’s favorite things about Viator were always the students and the community, feeling there was no better way to spend her life and career.
“I had the opportunity to work with some wonderful colleagues and help shape the lives of thousands of students,” said Dean Deb “ The best thing by far, though, was and will always be the students.”
Mrs. Kathy Gallagher, a longtime colleague and friend, witnessed Dean Deb’s genuine pride in her role throughout her career.
“It was a true pleasure to work with her,” said Gallagher, “She took her job seriously but did so with compassion; everything she did was for the kids.”
Dean Deb invested in her students and it is evident; countless individuals recognized and appreciated her unwavering commitment throughout the years.
“High school is a very chaotic time in a person’s life and at times it’s easy to feel as though no one is in your corner,” said Tyler Houston ’12, “Dean Deb, no matter what, WAS that person in your corner. She went above and beyond for students through all 4 years and even after they had graduated.”
“Dean Deb is a very strong woman whose shining dedication to Saint Viator has been shown every day. Nothing could get by her and she always has been ready to help if you needed it,” said senior Ellen Denten.
“A household name and local celebrity – she encompasses everything the Viator community represents,” said Alexa Pretto ‘16, “Her dedication to all students, both current and past, is truly unmatched. She brought charisma, compassion and tons of laughter to my days at Saint Viator.”
“ Being a Dean may be one of the most thankless jobs, and she has held this position with style and grace,” said Patrick Gaeger ‘08, “Deb always found a way to embrace my unique qualities and encourage me to use those gifts for things better than just a quick laugh. She never wanted to change you, just simply make you the best version of yourself.”
Dean Deb was cherished by students and she herself felt blessed to encounter so many memorable experiences.
“Most treasured memories are the small moments of talking with students in the cafe, on retreats or in the halls,” said Dean Deb.
Dean Deb’s most touching moment at Viator, though, occurred in 2011 during her battle with cancer. Students dyed their polos pink in solidarity and lined the halls before scheduled surgery to wish her well. The pink polo tradition lives on and is available for purchase every couple years, with a portion of the profits going to charity.
“The tradition is a wonderful and humbling honor,” said Dean Deb, “But the greater good is that the tradition now creates awareness of the many members of our community—instructors. parents, grandparents and students who have battled this disease.”
Dean Deb also held the title of Master of Ceremonies for Booster Club’s annual trivia night. She greatly enjoyed hosting such an event for the benefit of student athletes.
“I have a lot of wonderful memories ad some memorable shenanigans too,” said Dean Deb.
At the moment, Dean Deb is enjoying retirement by relaxing, catching up with friends and family and getting more sleep. However, she is open for whatever God intends next.
“God is not finished with me yet,” said Dean Deb, “I know whatever that will be will involve people and being of service to others.”
The former dean reflected upon her time at Viator and the thousands of students she feels blessed to have encountered. She wishes to leave the community with a few words.
“I gave my best and cared about students by challenging them and holding them accountable for their actions,” said Dean Deb, “It was a great joy for me to look down the line on graduation day and see the growth, joy, a bit of pain and maturity of the young adults before me as they enter the next phase of their life.”
“I was and always will be proud.”
