By Mary Louise Chesley-Cora, St. John’s Catholic School, MD, '59; College of Notre Dame, '64
Reflecting on my SSND life brings up a wealth of cherished memories and experiences. It feels like I could write a book!
My journey was filled with unique moments shaped by time and place. One such moment was working under Sister Marie Carmel Galligan, SSND, my high school principal, who later became my first Superior at Notre Dame Academy in St. Petersburg, FL.
I was there from the first graduating class in 1964 until the school’s merger in 1972, teaching music, French, and theology, directing the Glee Club, and forming lifelong bonds with students and colleagues.
In 1967, I led students on a 6-week study trip to France with my former teacher, Sister Mauro Manna, SSND, whose influence inspired my love for French. With encouragement, I earned an MA in French and an MAT in Religious Studies.
My journey then led me to Parish Ministry at the Interfaith Center in Columbia, MD, working alongside Sister Anne Marie Gardiner.
Later, I moved to Our Lady of Nazareth Parish in Roanoke, VA. After leaving the congregation, I married my dear friend George. We shared various ministries together for 36 years after moving to Delaware in 1979.
Growing up, I was blessed with SSNDs throughout my education at St. John’s in Frederick, MD, including Sisters Cora Lee Middleton, Cathy Arata, Mother Maurice, Maura Eichner and many others who left a lasting impact.
My class included wonderful mentors like Sisters Kathleen Cornell, Sharon Slear, Mary Fitzgerald, Carol Gnau, and Jeanne Hildenbrand. Many have since “joined the ancestors,” yet their spirit continues to inspire me.
I am deeply grateful for these extraordinary women and the lasting legacy of their love, mentorship, and dedication.
