175 Years in New England: Celebrating Our Legacy

175th Video Reflection - Sister Mary Johnson, SNDdeN

“We have a great sense of this anniversary being a time when we can all, across the Congregation, look back with pride and look forward with renewed courage.”

—Sister Mary Johnson, SNDdeN, on the importance of our 175-year history in New England

Celebrating an Enduring Legacy of Goodness in New England!

Sister Pat O’Brien, SNDdeN served as Gala emcee.

The October 16, 2024 gala celebrating the 175th anniversary of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in New England was a joyous and inspiring evening, bringing together over 300 sisters, families, faculty, staff and friends. This event, one of many celebrations during the anniversary year, honored the Sisters’ rich history since their arrival in the Archdiocese of Boston in 1849.

Sisters stand for a song.

From their early days at Saint Mary’s in the North End of Boston, the Sisters faced discrimination and challenges, but their trust in God’s goodness was their guiding light and source of courage. Their pioneering spirit led to the founding of nearly 100 schools and ministries throughout New England, showcasing their remarkable resilience that continues to impact the countless communities they serve.

Guests at the gala met students and faculty from our sponsored ministries, discovering firsthand how the Notre Dame charism and mission continue to thrive. The theme, “an enduring legacy of goodness,” resonated profoundly, and all felt the energy during the reception and throughout the evening.

The evening was also a chance to express gratitude to all those who have been part of this journey—co-workers, students, benefactors and friends—whose support and partnership have been vital. In honor of their dedication to the mission, the Enduring Legacy of Goodness Award was bestowed on three exemplars who have contributed so generously of their time, talent and

Sisters, friends, family and supporters gather to celebrate the 175th anniversary in New England.

treasure: Kathleen Sennott, Al and Diane Kaneb, and the Mahoney-McNamee family.

Each honoree is also designated as a “Companion on the Journey” of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. Our congregation established this designation to recognize those who, by their presence and support, have significantly contributed to the mission of Notre Dame. In addition to receiving a certificate, their names will be inscribed in a book kept in the chapel of our motherhouse in Namur, Belgium, so that they will be remembered daily in the Sisters’ prayers. Throughout these 175 years, the Sisters continue to be blessed by dedicated women and men who share the commitment to the vision and mission of Saint Julie. Looking ahead with excitement, the Sisters are confident that, with continued support, their legacy of faith, hope, and goodness will continue to shine brightly for future generations.

This story was featured in the 2024 Winter Sowing Goodness magazine.

: Kathy Sennott and guests at the gala

: The Mahoney and McNamee family.

: Sister Maria Delaney, SNDdeN with Al Kaneb and family

The Sisters attending the gala

Screenshot of 175 New England Gala lobby video 2026

Reflections on Our Legacy

This video shown at our 175th Anniversary Gala features beautiful images of the Sisters’ rich history and recollections by our Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.