Meet the Team
Tom Auffenberg
Program Director
Tom retired in 2016 after careers in teaching, law/financial planning and twenty-five years as a business owner. His education includes a BA in philosophy from the Santa Clara University, a law degree from St. Louis University, a Certified Financial Planner designation, an MA in Theology and a Certificate in Spiritual Direction from Aquinas Institute, and training to companion people making the Spiritual Exercises. Tom participated in a one-year program focusing on transitioning from the work years to the retirement years at The Halftime Institute and afterward became a Certified Halftime Coach. In addition to serving on several non-profit boards in the St. Louis community, Tom previously served as the Regional Coordinator for Contemplative Leaders in Action – St. Louis, and is currently the Program Director for The Next Chapter Program.
Reverend Christopher Collins, SJ
Program Advisor
Fr. Christopher Collins, SJ, is Vice President for Mission at St. Thomas. He served from 2012 to 2020 at Saint Louis University as a faculty member in the Department of Theological Studies, Director of the Catholic Studies Program and as Assistant to the President for Mission and Identity. He regularly gives retreats around the country based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. He was ordained a priest in 2006 and made his final vows as a Jesuit in 2015.
Dale Auffenberg
St. Louis Facilitator
Dale Auffenberg retired in 2016 after careers in teaching, counseling and human resources. Her education includes an MA in counseling psychology and a BA in sociology. Dale has a strong background and interest in Ignatian Spirituality. She trained for two years to become an Ignatian Prayer Companion and now guides retreatants through the Spiritual Exercises.
Don Eggleston
St. Louis Facilitator
Don retired in 2016 after a thirty year career in health care, and served the last ten years of his career as Vice President, Mission Integration for SSM Health. Don has an MA in both theology and organizational development. He has extensive experience in teaching adults, leading retreats and in coaching individuals in leadership roles. He is also the founder of Mission Works, a consulting group.
Mary Mills
St. Louis Facilitator
Mary had a 26-year career as a sales executive with Procter & Gamble. Since 2011 she has consulted globally across multiple industries to improve the capabilities of sales organizations. She has experience in leading/facilitating individuals and teams in defining priorities, identifying strengths and obstacles, and creating strategies to achieve successful results.
Next Chapter in the news
Want to read more about how the media has covered the Next Chapter program?