Emmaus House Staff
Kevin O'Donnell
Director
Kevin O'Donnell, M.A., is a trained spiritual director, having earned a Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction and Directed Retreats from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He completed his M.A. in Christian Spirituality at Creighton University as well. For his undergraduate studies, Kevin earned a B.A. in Psychology from Oakland University. He is also a certified Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) practitioner.
As a spiritual director, through both ongoing spiritual direction and directed retreats, Kevin feels humbled to accompany others on their spiritual journeys. He considers it to be a blessing to listen contemplatively, along with those he companions, to the ways in which God is uniquely inviting each and every one to become their most authentic selves, grow in deeper intimacy with God, and compassionately serve others.
April Young
Associate Director
April Young, M.A., received a master's degree in Pastoral Care from Fordham University in New York and a graduate certificate in Spiritual Direction and Retreats from Creighton University in 2023. She also has a BS in English from Iowa State University.
With years in pastoral ministry, April brings Ignatian roots, formation, and personal practice to Emmaus House. As a spiritual director, she feels honored to accompany others on their spiritual journey. Her own experience in spiritual direction helped her to hear the call to share its gifts with others and she is grateful to walk with others in their journey with God.
“Ignatian Spirituality is such a powerful, pragmatic practice, connecting us with God in a personal way in our everyday lives.”
Mary McConville
Office Assistant
Mary McConville is a graduate of Creighton University, and earned a Masters degree in Medical Informatics from Northwestern University. Her professional career included business writing, marketing, project management, computer sales, software application development and business analysis. She is an active member of St. Theresa Parish in Des Moines, serving in parish organizations, liturgical ministries and acting as facilitator for Adult Faith Formation courses.
She has participated in retreats and conferences, and is an avid reader of Thomas Merton, Edith Stein, and St. Teresa of Avila. Going through the Spiritual Exercises in Everyday Life in 2015 opened powerful vistas of faith. She is an enthusiastic supporter of the mission of the Emmaus House.