FAll 2022 OA

for service and leadership

The Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Award recognizes the value-based education legacy of foundress, Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. This year, the Guerin Award was awarded posthumously to Margaret “Peggy” Kelly Deputy ’64 . Much like Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, Deputy’s life is a reflection of God’s love. Raised in Indianapolis and educated by the Sisters of Providence, Deputy graduated from St. Agnes Academy and enrolled in SMWC. Two years later, she became a Sister of Providence. After leaving the order, she married her husband of 50 years, Tom Deputy. Their three children remember their mother’s devotion SAINT MOTHER THEODORE GUERIN AWARD

to our foundress. Mother Theodore was always present in their home and a part of their lives. Determined to finish what she started in 1960, Deputy completed her degree through SMWC’s WED program (now known as Woods Online) in 2003. Deputy was driven to lead and serve others. Deputy tremendously impacted SMWC as she served on the Alumni Board of Directors, was the Board’s Advancement Committee chair and the 1964 class agent. Deputy found purpose in helping people become part of Mother Theodore’s legacy and prayed they would share that legacy with the world.

G.O.L.D.E.N. OAK AWARD

The G.O.L.D.E.N. Oak Award recognizes an SMWC Graduate of the Last Decade Engaging Now. The award celebrates professional achievement, continued service and outstanding personal characteristics. Kindra Gingerich ’19 knew from her first visit to The Woods that this was the place for her. Throughout her time at SMWC, she was an active student – both in the equestrian arena and on the softball field – but she was only beginning. After graduation, Gingerich began working at one of the country’s top-rated training facilities in Arizona. There, she developed skills in horse management and returned to Indiana to open her own business in 2020.

Today, Gingerich works with nearly 20 horses in training. She has returned to SMWC numerous times to offer clinics for both the western and hunt seat teams. In addition to managing her own business, Gingerich gives back to her community through local 4-H clubs and coaching softball near her hometown of Sharpsville, Indiana.

Each of these difference-makers are the perfect display of what The Woods is all about. It is our hope that their providential path continues to encourage students at SMWC to carry on the legacy of service and leadership they have inspired.