Sinsinawa Sisters Celebrate 175 Years

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A vital presence on campus, Sr. Marci Hermesdorf, Sr. Jane Boland and Sr. Peggy Ryan are some of the many Sisters who have been a beloved and driving force at Dominican throughout the university’s history.

This story appeared in the Spring 2022 edition of the Dominican Magazine



As the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa celebrate the Congregation’s 175th anniversary, this year is one of jubilation, remembrance and setting out anew together.

Founded by Father Samuel Mazzuchelli, OP, in 1847, Sisters continue to preach and teach the Gospel in word and deed as members of the Order of Preachers at more than 30 ministry sites throughout the United States, in Bolivia and in Trinidad and Tobago.

Dominican University, formerly Rosary College, traces its roots to St. Clara Female Academy, a frontier school for women founded in the mid-1800s. Sisters moved beyond the course of study conventionally offered to young women at the time and included sciences, history and philosophy in the curriculum.

Sisters are grateful for the opportunity to touch so many lives in more than 500 schools at which they have ministered during these 175 years. Students and ministry partners have gone forward to make a positive impact on the world, and Sisters are proud Dominican University continues to prepare students to pursue truth, give compassionate service, and participate in the creation of a more just and humane world.

The congregation will be holding celebratory events throughout the year. Visit www.sinsinawa.org to follow the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa on social media.