SOUTH BEND, IND. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - A Chicago Catholic nun who for decades ran the North Side home for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities will receive an illustrious honor from the University of Notre Dame.
92-year-old Sister Rosemary Connelly, former executive director of Misericordia, will be awarded with the Laetare Medal at the university’s commencement ceremony on May 21, the school announced. The Laetare Medal, according to the university, is the oldest and most prestigious honor given to American Catholics.
Connelly, in a 2019 interview with WBBM, remembered the first day she started at Misericordia in 1969.
"I had no experience, which was surprising that I was appointed to be the administrator because I had no experience in administration or in fundraising or in special education," she said.
But by all accounts, Connelly has made Misericordia a national model for care and work opportunities. It currently serves 600 children and adults residentially on its 31-acre Chicago campus.
"People refer to me as a visionary and as a dreamer," she said. "I don't feel that way at all."
Instead, she calls herself a woman of faith.
"I believe in God's work. I also believe in great common sense and I wouldn't be afraid to take it on," she said.
Recently, Connelly transitioned from executive director to chairwoman of the Misericordia Board of Directors, primarily focusing on fundraising efforts for the nonprofit.
“With her characteristic tenacity, grace and genius, Sister Rosemary has ensured that the residents of Misericordia — as wonderful children of God — have the quality of life and opportunities they deserve,” said Notre Dame President Rev. John Jenkins in a statement.
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