2026 Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Companion Award Winners

In honor of the original five companions, five individuals were honored to receive the 2026 Saint Mother Theodore Companions Awards.

These awards recognize outstanding people who exhibit the best qualities of the five foundresses who accompanied Mother Theodore from France to the United States.

Michelle Anderson

Michelle Anderson has faithfully served Providence Health Care as a bus driver, transporting residents, sisters in long-term care, and their companions to appointments with extraordinary compassion and care for more than 20 years.

Michelle understands that transportation is about far more than getting from one place to another, the ride itself becomes, for many residents, a ministry of presence, comfort and companionship.

Furthermore, she understands that “whatever happens on the bus stays on the bus”! Her life of quiet service, unwavering kindness, and joyful dedication reflects the very heart of Providence.

General Counselor Sister Laura Parker (left) and General Superior Sister Dawn Tomaszewski with 2026 Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Companion awardee Michelle Anderson.

Carl Bender

Carl Bender’s relationship with the Sisters of Providence as an elementary school student at St. Benedict Grade School and later at Schulte High School, both here in Terre Haute.

For nearly 20 years, Carl has brought that enduring passion to “the Woods” in countless ways.

As a volunteer docent, a dedicated donor, and a committee member for the Saint Mother Theodore Guerin shrine, Carl has been a profound blessing to our community.

When asked, Carl says: “I happily volunteer to honor the sisters who were instrumental in my education.”

General Counselor Sister Carole Kimes (left) and General Superior Sister Dawn Tomaszewski (right) with Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Companion awardee Carl Bender.

Susan Denison-Backhaus

A special presentation was made by Sister Jane Iannaccone, SP, to the next award recipient, Susan Denison-Backhaus.

Susan is a heroine for Sister Jane and the congregation. After being diagnosed with a disease leaving Sister Jane’s kidneys to be nonfunctioning, Susan’s donated kidney gave Sister Jane the opportunity to celebrate a “Second birthday” each year she received a chance at life for a second time because of Susan’s gift.

Sister Jane presented Susan with the companion award for her selfless act of donating her organ to save the life of a stranger. Until this event, the women had not met one another.

They spent the evening in conversation, laughter, and a few tears of joy. Sister Jane closed her presentation of the award by saying that it was appropriate to be honoring Susan at a “Donor” Dinner!

Sister Jane Iannaccone (left) and General Superior Sister Dawn Tomaszewski (right) with Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Companion awardee Susan Denison-Backhaus.

Gene Majewski

Gene Majewski, Providence Associate, was presented with a Companion Award for the myriad ways that he has been the face of Providence to those who have crossed his path over the past 24 years: As a theology teacher who brought the Providence Spirituality to life for students and Mother Guerin High School and later Holy Cross.

As a campus minister, ensuring that living the values of love, mercy and justice was the mission of all faculty, staff and students at the school. And as a Providence Associate where he serves as a Providence Associate Board member, attends Providence Associate Circle events in Chicago and at the Woods, and is often the author of the prayers and reflections for the Associates’ weekly newsletter.

Thank you for teaching and leading by example, Gene!

Suzie Ray

Suzie Ray first met the Sisters of Providence in 1980 and it could be said that her life has never been the same — and neither has our community. All for the good. Her relationship with the community started through Sister Rita Black, SP.

It further deepened when she worked part-time as a nurse’s aide in the infirmary alongside Sisters Josephine Bryan and Mary Jo Piccione, right here at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Her work in our infirmary deeply inspired her concern for marginalized people.

As a certified nurse’s aid in 1980, Suzie cared for Sister Dorothy Ann, who was paralyzed from the neck down. Though Sister Dorothy Ann may never have realized it, her love and kindness created a ripple effect in Suzie’s life, demonstrating how one compassionate act can transform another person’s sense of purpose.

More recently, Suzie’s organizational talents and computer skills have been invaluable in developing the JUSTus podcast. As a member of the Justice Coordinating Committee, she plays an essential role in supporting and producing podcast episodes, helping amplify voices centered on justice and compassion.

In addition to this service, Suzie is a valuable member of the Mission Advisory Board and an active Providence Associate since 2014. Through both quiet service and active justice work, Suzie continues to embody the spirit of Providence.