One of the many people who quietly contribute behind the scenes, Mrs. Mary Jo Pienton is a key figure in the Mount Carmel community. Having joined the Caravan in 2001 as the school librarian, she also teaches the Research and Communication course for sophomores, and also manages the school’s applications for grant money from the state. While balancing three roles “is very challenging,” she loves her job. “MC is the best thing that has ever happened to me.”

A veteran of 13 years at the school, Pienton likes the way Mount Carmel boys behave. She enjoys their different backgrounds and the stories that they share, while she also appreciates the diversity of the school.

Coming to teach at MC was a big transition for Pienton. After starting her career at an elementary school, she soon decided that wasn’t the right fit, but “I love teaching high school kids.” Pienton held other professiona positions before settling at Mount Carmel, working for Morgan Stanley-Dean Witter in the World Trade Center. Although she loved her job, she moved back to Chicago to be closer to her family.

Pienton, who attended St. Francis De Sales High School, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Champaign. She later pursued graduate studies at Chicago State University.

As a librarian, it comes as no surprise that one of her favorite summer pasttimes is reading, or that she enjoys spending her summers going to the beach with a good book.

Pienton brings expertise and knowledge to her many roles, and is one of many individuals who make Mount Carmel a special place.