The original Earth Mother

Just wanted to add some thoughts about our Sister Helen Jean. She taught me biology, advanced biology and ecology. I truly loved having my own plot of land on our gorgeous campus to explore and track vegetation. She really opened up a whole new world to us City Girls. In the Spring of 1971, Sister Helen Jean encouraged us to participate in the first ever Earth Day Walk for [Hu]mankind. Many of us hold deep and lasting memories of that day. Minds were awakened and lasting friendships were formed (I walked with Mary Glenn and we are still thick as thieves!). Sister Helen was the original Earth Mother. She made such a positive impression on our lives, as did so many of our sisters.

— Mary Ellen Wieland, LSA ’74, composts, is an avid gardener and recycler. She lives in Indianapolis and credits Sister Helen for her deep appreciation of the environment and a sense of duty to do what is right, not just for the physical world, but for all those around us, especially those in need.