Monsignor Robert Hemberger receives Cardinal Newman Medal
Reverend Monsignor Robert Hemberger was awarded the
Cardinal Newman Medal at the 2015 Cardinal Newman Banquet and Awards Ceremony on Feb. 21. Monsignor Hemberger, a former member of the Newman Board of Trustees, retired in 2014.
Newman Board of Trustees Chair Linda Davison ’77 presents the Cardinal Newman Medal to Monsignor Hemberger at the Feb. 21 awards banquet.
Monsignor Hemberger is widely known and appreciated for his gentle, congenial nature, his ability to inspire others, and his gift for bringing out the best in people. He has long been a supporter of Catholic higher education and of Newman University. In addition to serving as the diocesan representative to the Newman Board, he supported the St. Gianna Catholic Healthcare Academy, the Tom Seiler Teacher Academy at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School, and the Newman Master of Theology and Master of Theological Studies programs.
He was ordained to the priesthood on May 30, 1970. During his 44year tenure with the diocese he served in many roles, including chaplain at
St. Francis Hospital, Halstead Hospital and for the Sisters of St. Joseph, director of Marriage Encounter, Assistant Chancellor, Judicial Vicar of the Tribunal, Diocesan Administrator, and Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia.
He also was involved in the healthcare ministry, the Catholic Care Center, the Spiritual Life Center, The Lord’s Diner, the synod, and the recent Cathedral renovation. He received a Licentiate in Canon Law in 1985 from Catholic University, Washington, D.C.