In this episode, we visit St. Mary’s Elementary School in Fulton, New York, where the Sparkill Sisters taught from 1914 to 1971. Alumni share memories, life lessons, and the inspiration they carry from those formative years. Among the pioneering Sisters were Angela, Agatha, and Henrietta, whose dedication shaped generations.

To mark the Sisters’ 150th anniversary, Fr. Joseph Scardella happily gathered fellow alumni—Shelly Shepard, Mary Farfaglia, David Mirabito, Linda Farden, and John Finnochario—for a lively Zoom conversation about their experiences.

The Sisters’ legacy went far beyond academics, fostering respect, spiritual awareness, and a broad worldview that still guides their students today. The bond between students and teachers extended well beyond reading, writing, and arithmetic, shaping hearts as much as minds.

This is the first of two parts from our friends who are alumni of St. Mary’s Elementary School.

In this episode, we invite you to listen as Sister Jeanne Margaret Stoltz shares some of her most cherished memories from her time at St. Dominic’s High School in O’Fallon, Missouri.

A devoted Dominican Sister of Sparkill since 1945, Sister Jeanne reflects on the meaningful ministries that shaped her life beyond the classroom. Sister Jeanne served the school community for over 40 years as a librarian and English teacher. Though she held degrees in Elementary Education and Library Science, it was her deep compassion and genuine love for people—especially her students—that truly set her apart.

To Sister Jeanne, the school was more than just a workplace—it was a family. Students fondly remember her as someone who cared deeply for all 600 of them, always putting their needs ahead of her own. Whether helping with homework, listening to their joys and struggles, or offering support, Sister Jeanne made each student feel seen, valued, and loved.

In this episode, Sister Joan Correia shares her story with Sister Jeanne Shary. A devoted member of the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill since 1964, Sister Joan reflects on two ministries that shaped her life and touched countless others—first in Easton, Maryland, and later in Pakistan.

From the rural communities of the Eastern Shore to the vibrant culture of South Asia, Sister Joan’s journey is one of courage, adaptability, and profound faith. Her stories reveal how love in action can transcend borders, languages, and traditions.