Age 90
Sister Mary Catharine left an indelible mark on countless students through her passion for teaching and her unwavering commitment to their success.
Born in South Amboy, New Jersey, she attended elementary school and high school in New York. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Georgian Court University in Lakewood, New Jersey, and a master’s degree in Spanish from Middlebury College in Middlebury, Vermont. She entered the Sisters of Mercy in Watchung, New Jersey, at the age of 21.
Initially she taught high school at Mount St. Mary Academy in Watchung, New Jersey, and Notre Dame High School in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. She was among the first Sister faculty members at Notre Dame. After obtaining her master’s degree, she returned to Georgian Court as an assistant professor of Spanish for five years before becoming their dean of women for ten years. Next, she ministered as the director of academic affairs then director of the evening division and dean of arts and sciences.
In addition to her administrative duties, Sister Mary Catharine never gave up her teaching responsibilities and enrichment programs for her students. Not having children of her own, Sister Mary Catharine found immense joy and fulfillment in her role as an educator. She cherished her students and dedicated herself to their growth and development. She spent her final years at McAuley Hall Health Care Center in Watchung, New Jersey, in a community that she loved.