Beloved Neumann University Nun Inspires Bobblehead Raising Funds for Athletics

Sister Marguerite O'Beirne's bobblehead is already making a difference for student-athletes at the Delaware County school.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:26pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic bobblehead figure of a nun, repeated in a tight grid pattern in a style reminiscent of Andy Warhol's pop art, conceptually representing the impact of Sister Marguerite O'Beirne on the Neumann University community.The beloved Sister Marguerite O'Beirne's bobblehead is inspiring a new generation of Neumann University student-athletes through its vibrant, pop art-inspired design.Philadelphia Today

Neumann University in Pennsylvania is selling bobbleheads of beloved Sister Marguerite O'Beirne, a Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia, to raise money for the school's athletic department. The bobblehead, inspired by the viral success of Sister Jean's bobblehead at Loyola University Chicago, reflects details of Sister Marguerite's daily life and has been in high demand from students who say her quiet presence and prayers have made a powerful impact on them.

Why it matters

The bobblehead is not just a fundraising symbol, but a representation of the deep connection between Sister Marguerite, her fellow Sister Linda DeCero, and the Neumann University community. The sisters have worked together since 1986, supporting student-athletes and extending a legacy of service that goes beyond the campus.

The details

Each $60 bobblehead, priced to honor Neumann's 60th anniversary, includes details reflecting Sister Marguerite's daily life, from her cross to her teacup. While Sister Marguerite admits she's not much of a sports fan, her quiet presence and prayers have had a powerful impact on students, helping them stay eligible to play and even improve their grades. The bobblehead idea was inspired by the viral success of Sister Jean's bobblehead at Loyola University Chicago.

  • Neumann University is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
  • The bobbleheads went on sale in April 2026.

The players

Sister Marguerite O'Beirne

A beloved Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia at Neumann University, known for her quiet presence, prayers, and positive impact on student-athletes.

Sister Linda DeCero

A fellow Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia at Neumann University, known for her energy and Philly sports pride. She has worked alongside Sister Marguerite since 1986.

Donte Dupriest

A Neumann University student-athlete who says Sister Marguerite's presence and encouragement have helped him stay eligible to play and improve his grades.

Gina McLaughlin

The Deputy Athletic Director at Neumann University, who oversees the sale of the Sister Marguerite bobbleheads.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She always motivates us, tells us we're going to be good. Just pray, you'll be OK.”

— Donte Dupriest, Neumann University student-athlete

“If it raises money for the student-athletes and helps them to get the equipment and the resources that they need, I'll do it.”

— Sister Marguerite O'Beirne

What’s next

Neumann Athletics says a student discount for the bobbleheads is coming soon after overwhelming interest from the community.

The takeaway

The Sister Marguerite bobblehead is more than just a fundraising symbol - it represents the deep, lasting impact that the Franciscan sisters have had on the Neumann University community, especially its student-athletes, through their quiet presence, prayers, and unwavering support.