FAll 2022 OA

Leading a legacy Difference makers awarded

By Elizabeth Reel ’21, Content Marketing Manager

Embarking on a journey, uncertain of what the future held, Saint Mother Theodore Guerin took a leap of faith in traveling from France to the beautiful grounds of what is now Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC). It was the beginning of a magnificent legacy that continues today, inspiring thousands of change-makers worldwide. Mother Guerin once said, “This is the path traced by Providence. And I will follow it.” For years, students have passed through the gates of SMWC, beginning a providential journey that would be a constant companion wherever they go. This past May, four honorees were recognized as award winners for their admirable journey in life, their work and service to others.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD

The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed upon alumni of SMWC. Sharon Harley ‘70, Ph.D. , was presented the award during the May 2022 commencement. She is one of the top historians of African American women’s history in the United States. She has written and contributed to many articles and several books on race and gender. Harley earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in history from SMWC in 1970 and her Master of Arts in education from Antioch College. She also earned her Ph.D.

from Howard University in United States History and several postdoctoral fellowships. Since 1988, Sharon has served as an associate professor at the University of Maryland, College Park. During her tenure, she has served as a faculty member of Women’s Studies and American Studies. Sharon has held many leadership positions, including department chair and associate dean. Today, she serves as a faculty member of the African American Studies Department.

FRANCES MURPHY RUMELY AWARD

The Frances Murphy Rumely Award is presented annually by SMWC to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to and leadership within civic, religious or educational organizations. The award is given in memory of Frances Murphy Rumely, class of 1935. The Frances Murphy Rumely Award was awarded to Alice Steers Lingenfelter ’61, during the May Reunion. At a time when few women entered the fields of science and mathematics, Lingenfelter graduated from SMWC in 1961 with a bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry. After continuing her education and earning her master’s degree, Lingenfelter dedicated 20 years to advancing

biomedical research and technology. She has been committed to helping others for more than 40 years through parish work and service to the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Stephen Ministries. Lingenfelter embodies SMWC’s legacy of faith lived out through service.

President Dottie L. King and Sharon Harley ‘70, Ph.D