Each September, World Alzheimer’s Month seeks to challenge the stigmas surrounding Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. It is in this spirt that School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) are pleased to announce that the Women’s Leadership Luncheon theme for 2025 is The Nun Study: Transforming the Future of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Related Dementias. Not only will this topic touch upon the realities of a disease that affects the lives of so many, but also it delves into the selfless contributions hundreds of SSND have made as participants in the Nun Study, a longtime study on aging.

Depending on the location, one of two current dementia research experts - Dr. Margaret Flanagan, M.D. or Professor Sudha Seshadri, M.D. - will serve as keynote speakers for the series of luncheons next spring. From their unique perspective, they will guide attendees through research trends, disease prevention, treatment options and, ultimately, the shared hope for improved outcomes for those facing a dementia diagnosis.

In addition to our usual luncheons in Dallas, Milwaukee, St. Louis and St. Paul, Minn., we are excited to add a Chicago date to this year’s series!

In 1999, Marian Middle School opened its doors as the only all-girls private middle school in the St. Louis community with a focus on serving urban adolescent youth in a faith-based environment. Last month, the school kicked off not just the start of a new academic year, but a milestone 25 years celebrating demonstrated student success. Marian Middle School is a co-sponsored ministry of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND).

Since the beginning, SSND have invested in the vision of Marian Middle School, with sisters serving as board members, teachers, a principal, administrators and in various volunteer capacities.

“I know that way back 25 years ago when they were getting started, that the attitude in the SSND community was great excitement about doing this for girls,” said Sister Joan Andert, director of the ministry office for SSND.

The excitement and pride for the success of this school and its students, parents, teachers and administrators continues!

First founded in the 1950’s, The Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) is an association of women leaders from Catholic congregations from across the United States. The School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) have been active with LCWR since the beginning, contributing the thoughtful insight and experience of our own leadership to the collective voice of the organization.

In August, LCWR held its national assembly, bringing together women religious from across the country and across congregations to consider critical issues facing our world, as well as the challenges and opportunities of religious life in this moment.

SSND, associates and colleagues attended the assembly in Orlando, Florida, participating in a program of prayer, listening and dialogue. The event also marked the official start of Sister Sandra Helton’s new board member role within LCWR, continuing the legacy of SSND leadership within the organization.