News

Over 100 administrators and staff members of the Oakland Diocesan Chancery Office gathered for a luncheon on June 22 to honor and thank Barbara Bray, SNJM (East Bay) as she retires from her ministry as Superintendent of Schools. Bishop Emeritus John Cummins offered the invocation. Bishop Michael Barber and Assistant Superintendent Linda Basman spoke in glowing and grateful terms of Barbara’s gifts of servant leadership, her creation of a “community of schools” in the Diocese and her mission-driven and child-centered service during her 38 years of educational ministry in Oakland. She served as principal in two parish schools, assistant superintendent and superintendent.

Villa Maria del Mar retreat center in Santa Cruz, CA held their “Meet Me at the Villa” fundraiser on May 18 which included a reception and dinner for 135 guests. There was an auction of golf packages and travel that raised additional funds for the Villa. It was great fun for all. Learn more about the Villa at: http://www.villamariadelmar.org/

In recognition of her 40 years of service to DePaul Housing Management of Albany, NY, Joan Byrne, SNJM received the “2016 Outstanding Contribution by a Senior” award from the New York State Office for the Aging. Sr. Joan also received a citation from the New York State Assembly, presented by Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy, and a “Proclamation Honoring Sister Joan Byrne” from New York State Senator Neil D. Breslin. Click here to read the New York State proclamation honoring Sr. Joan.

On May 10, 1868, six foundresses arrived in San Francisco after a long journey from Longueuil. The Sisters of Mercy welcomed them with strawberries and cream. This was a special treat for the Canadian Sisters, who were not accustomed to having strawberries so early in the year. We honor the arrival of these foundresses every year on Strawberry Day by sharing strawberries with students and colleagues.

Holy Names Academy, Seattle bestowed its Loeken Award on its registrar, Linda Riggers, SNJM at a recent assembly. The award recognizes a faculty or staff member who has gone the extra mile in service to the Academy. In the Attendance Office, Sr. Linda lives the mission of the school in many ways through her attentive care to the needs of each student.