Alnita Crane came to Saint Louis University four years ago, following a family path rooted in academia. Crane quickly learned that the position she accepted wasn't just a job, but also a ministry.

"To do this job is an honor because I am into service for the students," she said.

Before coming to SLU, Crane was a bus driver for Call-A-Ride, a transportation service provided for individuals with a broad range of disabilities.

"It was such a joy. I was really doing something to help other people," Crane said.

She worked for the company for a year, but having an extensive background in government administration work, Crane felt the need to return to the office.

Although Crane was no longer behind the wheel, she was now responsible for operating and managing a complex operation– the mail service and copy center for the business school.

"Alnita always has a smile for everyone, and no matter how short-staffed she is, she always does every copy and print job assigned to her in time," said Bidisha Chakrabarty, Ph.D., assistant professor of finance.

Last year, Crane's collective staff of 10 students was experiencing simultaneous mini-breakdowns. Crane said that her "family," as she refers to them, was unable to focus.

"Everyone was having a moment," she said.

One by one, the students pulled her aside to discuss their problems and seek her advice.

"If I can be the mom, the friend, the ear to listen, I want to be that," she said.

Sophomore Evan Krauss said that Crane embodies all that SLU stands for.

"She's certainly a blessing. She brings the Jesuit mission more alive than anyone else I know on this campus."

Crane believes that her job duties extend far beyond her office. Each holiday, Crane sees to it that all of her "kids" have a place to call home. She even plans and hosts a celebration for their birthdays.

"When students are away from home, they need encouragement and comfort," she said.

These students don't neglect to return the many favors. Four years ago, when Crane was taking classes at SLU, the students studied with her, prepped her for tests and saw to it that Crane stayed on top of her homework.

"Each kid is so different. They taught me how to keep the youth in me," Crane said.

Crane said that it's important for college students to have somebody and somewhere to go.

"Her door and her heart are always open to everyone," Krauss said.

Outside of SLU, Crane serves as the neighborhood block captain for her community. When the program began, there were countless requests for Crane to monitor the neighborhood. As a result, she's now in charge of three blocks. Her primary goal, she said, is "to keep the bad stuff out."

Crane also partnered with SLU students who were coordinating a summer minority camp and brought her community kids in to enjoy the opportunity.

When not monitoring the neighborhoods, Crane volunteers at various churches, offering her computer skills and creativity. Crane's projects include work with clothing giveaways and feeding the hungry.

At home, Crane's two children and two grandchildren, one of whom lives with her, keep her busy.

"I've got a lot of stuff on my plate," she said.

Crane received four nominations for the "Saints of SLU," but business school professor Jerry Katz, Ph.D., summarizes the sentiments of the group.

"If there is a heaven for saints of service, Alnita has assured her place there," he said.