Saint Francis High School in Mountain View, California, has established an award in memory of Sister M. Mercedes (O’Connor), CSC, recognizing and honoring her contributions to the institution and the school’s Holy Cross heritage. Sister Mercedes, who ministered for 53 years in various educational roles, served as
A media release shared by Father Anthony J. Mancuso, chaplain and outgoing president of the school, states, “When the Women of Holy Cross stepped onto the campus of Saint Francis, Sister [Mercedes] brought with her a different voice, the feminine dimension of God. … She became a mentor to the women faculty at Saint Francis and assisted them in becoming advocates for the feminine dimension. Ahead of her time, she believed in the power of women and the gift they brought to education.”
The award, which acknowledges faculty who exemplify leadership in their field and position, is the first dedicated to a woman by the school. Margaret Miller, the first recipient of the award, was a protégé of Sister Mercedes and most recently served as dean of students before retiring from her 37-year career with Saint Francis.
To further celebrate Sister Mercedes’ legacy, the school has instituted an endowed tribute fund in her name to support financial aid.
