4 minute read
Sister Ann McManamon, H.M. ’52L
This is a continuing feature in a series highlighting Magnificat’s principals over the years.
Sister Ann McManamon, H.M. ’52L
(Sister Mary Patrick) Principal 1971-1974
Article by Mary Cay Doherty, School Archivist and Social Studies Faculty Member
Magnificat’s fourth principal, Sister Ann McManamon, H.M. ’52L , was born on November 7, 1933, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Patrick and Mary McManamon. She graduated from Lourdes Academy in 1952 and entered the Sisters of the Humility of Mary in 1953. Ann received Sister Mary Patrick as her religious name, and she professed final vows on July 17, 1958. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Notre Dame College in Ohio and a master’s degree from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
Arriving at Magnificat in 1958, Sister Mary Patrick taught English literature and theology and served as a moderator for the Junior Class and the Yearbook. Vice President of Mission Emerita Sister Helen Jean Novy, H.M., recalls that she was “an educator who based decisions on understanding the theory behind practice.” Sister Joanne Gardner, H.M., meanwhile, is “forever grateful” for Sister Mary Patrick’s “support and encouragement” when she was a young teacher.
In 1967, Sister Mary Patrick returned to her baptismal name, Ann. Sister Ann served as assistant principal under Sister Claire Young until 1971, when she herself was named principal.
(Sister Mary Patrick) Principal 1971-1974
Magnificat Archives
As principal, Sister Ann shepherded in new programs. In 1971, Magnificat introduced a 1-3 numeric scale that complemented the A-F letter grade scale and holistically evaluated students’ intellectual and emotional processing abilities as well as their content mastery. Sister Ann also approved new courses including Advanced Creative Writing and Popular Literature and Oral Communication.
Magnificat’s signature Genesis program began in 1973 under Sister Ann’s leadership. The program released senior students from their classes three weeks before graduation
for self-directed research and experiential learning. The Genesis program has undergone changes since its inception, and it continues to distinguish Magnificat graduates as women dedicated to lifelong learning.
Sister Ann doing service with a group of Magnificat students.
Magnificat Archives
After leaving Magnificat in 1974, Sister Ann ministered in educational, hospital, and parish settings in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
In 2009, Sister Ann helped to open the Dorothy Day House of Hospitality in Youngstown, where she served as its coordinator for many years. Sister Ann explains that this ministry offers “hospitality that overwhelms” to people experiencing homelessness and marginalization. Guests receive hot meals, clothing, showers, and other necessities. Sister Ann and her volunteers also attend to spiritual needs while emphasizing the dignity of each person. In this work, they model Magnificat’s core values of respect, compassion, and faith-filled life.
Sister Ann continues to inspire Magnificat students. On a Magnificat Service Retreat, students volunteered alongside her at the Dorothy Day House. Additionally, Magnificat’s annual Humble Hands Advent Project includes the Dorothy Day House as one of its partner organizations. Today within the Ministry of Prayer, Sister Ann continues to support and encourage Dorothy Day House volunteers and guests.
As a teacher, principal, and tireless social justice advocate, Sister Ann embodies Magnificat’s Mission. Of the Dorothy Day House, she has said, “It’s a great place to be. It’s hard, but it’s great.” In this, Sister Ann reminds the Magnificat community that learning, leading, and serving in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat can be challenging, but answering God’s call is life-giving.
Sister Ann McManamon and Katie Higgins '99, Vice President of Mission
