Alumni
In 1841, our Foundress, Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, accepted the first student at the Saint Mary-of-the-Woods Academy. For the decades since and still today, our Congregation continues its ministry of education in all its forms. We have deep love for and cherish the relationships we have with our former students. Learn about some of the schools we have ministered at here. Are you an alum looking for a favorite teacher? Find her here!
Did you know we need volunteer knitters?
Do you knit or crochet? Would you like to work with alpaca yarn as a volunteer? We would love to talk with you.
Former teacher influences a career in environmental law
When I took biology from sister she was still in the full habit, and I've recounted many times the vivid image I have of her rolling up her sleeves, hiking up her skirt and tucking it in to her waist (she looked like she had big pantaloons) so she could lead us up and down the creek bed to explore and take samples.
Remembering Sister Helen Vinton: nature walks and care for the environment
When I had Sister Helen Jean for biology I enjoyed class, but the nature walks were the best!
Sister Helen Jean Vinton: a woman for all time
Sister Helen Jean instilled in me the sense that God’s creation given to us must be protected. Her quiet way, her love for God’s creation and her passion for teaching influenced so many young minds.
A Reflection on Sister Helen Jean Vinton
I cannot recall if Sister Helen ever used the words “social justice” she just lived it as an example to her students. So perhaps that is the greatest gift I received from the time spent with Sister Helen. To create a life of purpose and a way of thinking that is bigger than you in a world that needs our care.
Ecological pioneer teacher leaves lasting impression
“[Sister Helen Jean] taught all of us … a way of thinking and living in a much bigger world than most of us had experienced before. Caring for each other, the earth and people we would never know was as normal as breathing to Sister Helen.” — Julia Boarini Conaghan, ’73
Of liverwort and shaved eyebrows: Anne Healey remembers Sister Helen Vinton the scientist
I took Biology from Sister Helen [Vinton] as a sophomore at Ladywood-St. Agnes High School [in Indianapolis] and the most memorable lesson I learned from her was a curiosity and appreciation for the minute miracles that occur in nature. For…
Former student rescues sister from Florida accident; saves her life
Sister Ann Paula Pohlman and Sister Margaret Louise Bernard were planning a day of adventure at the Port of Tampa (Fla.) to see some tour ships that were open at the aquarium. Shortly after noon on March 15, 2013, they…
At Providence St. Mel, we believe …
I recently had the opportunity to visit Providence St. Mel School (PSM) on Chicago’s West Side. If you’re not familiar with the school and the good work that goes on there, spend some time browsing the website to learn about the school.…
