Calling Students to Explore and Serve, Dr. Claudia Herrera-Montero Draws on the Wisdom of Grandmothers

In one of Dr. Claudia Herrera-Montero’s most distinctive courses, it is the abuelitas—the grandmothers—who shape the most meaningful lessons.

Abuelita Theology introduces the role and wisdom of the grandmother figure as a metaphor for theological reflection.

This figure also symbolizes “the voices that are often in the margins of our communities, [but] are the foundations of our identities, stories, traditions and faith,” Herrera-Montero says.

The course was developed by Herrera-Montero with her own Latina grandmothers in mind. They, with their strong Catholic faith and resilience, were theologians in their own right, she says.

“There was always a plate, a space at my grandmother’s table,” said Herrera-Montero, who was raised in Colombia. “You were an active participant at my grandmother’s table. And that’s also a metaphor for understanding our active participation and calling in the world.”

Her grandmothers “taught us to keep going through the difficult times of life and showed love and service within their own communities,” she added.

This, too, is the message she imparts on her students. Herrera-Montero is a Catholic practical theologian whose academic focus draws from the spiritual and cultural aspects of the U.S. Latine Catholic experience and the Latine American experience. She joined Dominican in 2022.

“In practical theology, you get to explore the mystery of God and how God is revealed in the daily realities of the people,” she explained.

This prepares students to actively serve others, Herrera-Montero said.

“The work we do in Catholic Hispanic-Serving Institutions is vocational; it goes beyond the classroom,” she noted. “It moves our students to a deeper reflection and understanding of themselves and their calling in the world so they can ultimately thrive and be protagonists in their own communities and career fields.”

In her culturally responsive classes, students connect what they learn with their own identities and lived experiences. This inspired students from her Latina Theology and Spirituality course to create Cafecito y Chisme, an organization celebrating Latina identity and empowerment through gatherings, special events and, of course, over cups of cafecito (coffee). Herrera-Montero serves as the faculty advisor, and the group is now in its second year.

Herrera-Montero also incorporates instruction beyond theological principles to help her students become better critical thinkers, communicators and leaders as they prepare for their future careers.

Outside the classroom, she is an active member of the Academy of Catholic Hispanic Theologians of the United States, a professional association promoting research, reflection and dialogue that is centered on U.S. Hispanic and Latine religious experience. She is currently serving as vice president of the board of directors.

Known for her passion and energy, Herrera-Montero was the recipient of the 2026 Mother Evelyn Murphy Excellence in Teaching Award, a prestigious honor from Dominican University. She was recognized as a respected mentor and for the support and inclusivity she brings to her classroom every day.

“My favorite part of every semester is collaborating with and contributing to the field and the classroom alongside the most incredible students,” Herrera-Montero said during her address at DU’s 2026 Convocation in September. “I am amazed by how our students at Dominican bring who they are and where they come from to engage with the course material. Their unique identities, lived experiences, social realities, educational trajectories and learning differences are a true gift.”