2025 California Region Sisters of Notre Dame ImpactReport
SND USA MISSION STATEMENT
A Catholic congregation of women religious, the Sisters of Notre Dame of the United States are united in one heart, one hope, and one mission to proclaim God’s goodness and compassionate love for people of all faiths and cultures through a variety of ministries, both national and international, particularly serving those who are poor and marginalized.
Sisters of Notre Dame of the United States Regional Office 1776 Hendrix Ave. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
805-917-3714 | infoca@sndusa.org | www.sndusa.org
Thank you for supporting our Kaleidoscope of Hope
Dear Friends,
As children, we probably discovered a kaleidoscope as a unique toy. The word kaleidoscope comes from the Greek: “kalos” meaning beautiful and “eidos” meaning shapes. Made of colorful bits and pieces of glass, a kaleidoscope creates changing patterns when rotated. In so many ways, the vocation of each Sister of Notre Dame is like a kaleidoscope, a Kaleidoscope of Hope.
We are pleased to share this 2025 Impact Report, and we trust that you will see the impact of your donations reflected in kaleidoscope colors. Red, representing passion and energy. Blue, symbolizing peace and tranquility. Green, signifying growth and renewal. And yellow for happiness, optimism and hope. And as world realities are constantly changing, our responses adapt to the needs of the times. Indeed, the various patterns within a kaleidoscope represents the diverse combinations of our prayer and outreach, revealing the hope we find in God’s goodness and provident care.
As our partners on mission, you are vital in supporting our Kaleidoscope of Hope. Providing gifts of hope, you are touching hearts and lives beyond your imagination. Please be assured that we are profoundly grateful for your encouragement and financial support! You and your loved ones are remembered with great fondness in our daily prayer.
Gratefully,
Sr. Lisa Megaffin, SND Director of Mission Advancement Services
We cherish the many graces of 2025, especially during the Jubilee Year of Hope celebrated in our Church. In these photos, we see a group of SND pilgrims in Rome, presenting our traditional Coesfeld crucifix to Pope Leo XIV, and Sr. Kathleen Burns with sisters from various countries.
Celebrating 110 Years of Religious Consecration
Saturday, July 26 found two Sisters of Notre Dame celebrating their jubilees, using the theme, “May my song arise to you…like a flame my hope is burning.” The main celebrants for the liturgy were Most Rev. Joseph Brennan of the Diocese of Fresno, and Most Rev. Slawomir Szkredka, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The sisters’ responses to several questions reveal the many graces which have sustained them on their respective journeys.
Sr. Rose Marie Tulacz | 50 Years
Describe your vocation story in a few words: Suffering, dying, and rising in Christ
Who is one important mentor who has accompanied you on your life journey? What made that person a good mentor?
Sr. Mary Shobana Valiavettil from India has been a true mentor to me. Her life has focused on doing the small things that make every person feel loved and valuable.
What do you love most about being an SND?
When we live fully from our spousal identity, we nourish and strengthen the Church to share more fully in Christ’s love.
How have you felt God’s presence in any of your ministries?
When I approach my work to honor God, my camera lens becomes a ministry tool. Each image reflects God’s love and goodness.
What legacy do you wish to leave to future generations? “I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
Years
Describe your vocation story in a few words: Call, daily “yes,” journeys, creative fidelity, joy, legacy
Who is one important mentor who has accompanied you on your life journey? What made that person a good mentor?
There is not just one person but so many. Beginning with my parents who taught me to pray, to listen, and trust in God. Then, turn in my life and vocation journey, there has been that perfect, graced person who supported, directed, encouraged, surrounded me with prayer, and rejoiced as I stepped out on my own. These wonderful mentors are my sisters, my community.
What do you love most about being an SND?
Being a SISTER in every way. The surprise of waking up each morning to a NEW day to come closer to God. Then I go out to share the possibilities, and reality of grace and holiness in that day with everyone I meet. All is a blessing in Notre Dame!
How have you felt God’s presence in any of your ministries?
The ministries gifted to me began at my Baptism, growing through various assignments. I know God’s presence more each day, through the people I cherish in ministry. The ministry of prayer in Rome, formation in Uganda, and all the retreat work, past and present, confirm for me God’s goodness and personal provident care.
What legacy do you wish to leave to future generations?
To see and know in your heart that God is love, for you and for all. See with Jesus’ eyes, be his hands, feet, ears, and heart for ALL whom you meet in life, and then sing out God’s praises at all times.
SND Associates Celebrate 25 Years in California
In August, the California Region celebrated 25 years of association! The festivities brought a distinct feeling of prayer and fellowship through a liturgy, reception, memorabilia display and a commemorative slide show. We welcomed five new associates and honored the pioneers, both living and deceased.
More than 100 individuals have become associates, committing to live the SND charism, spirit and mission. When the SNDs realize the depth of associates’ spirituality and the magnitude of their pastoral outreach, we are truly humbled!
Scan this code to enjoy a commemorative presentation!
Thank You To Our Donors
For Creating a Kaleidoscope of Hope
Throughout 2025, the Sisters of Notre Dame around the world commemorated the many blessings that God has given us during our 175 years. With hearts full of gratitude for all that has been and with hope for the future, we rejoice in God’s goodness and provident care as it has unfolded in our lives and the lives of those entrusted to our care. Each of you has been a blessing within those many years. Thank you!
The Sisters of Notre Dame of the California region offer our heartfelt gratitude to every individual and organization that made a donation during 2025. As our partners in sharing this 175-year mission, you have touched thousands of lives, most often in ways unknown to us. In particular, we acknowledge more than 60 donors who have chosen to remain anonymous. Please be assured that all of you and your loved ones are remembered in our daily prayers.
According to our Advancement Office records, an asterisk represents a donor whose first recorded gift was 25 or more years ago. Loyalty such as this is indeed a gift of God and much-appreciated evidence of your sacrificial hearts~thank you!
A
Susan Adamich
Carole & Alan Adams*
Elizabeth & Christopher Adams
David T. Adams
Juanita Sylvia Aguirre
Lenora & Joseph Allee*
Isabel T. Almeida
Melini A. Altermatt
Maricela Alvarez
Christopher K. Amy
Joan Anderson*
Anonymous
Mary Anselmo
Maureen Arevalo
Cathleen A. Armstrong
Sharon Arnett*
Paula & Marty Ashcraft
Cecelia & Jeffrey Assaf*
Jennifer Astrella
Kathleen & Ronald Auth* B
Wallace & Joyce Bachelder
No’ne & Mark Bailey
Amparo & Hector Baldemor
Saul A. Banas, Jr.
Lupe & Agustin Barragan
Vicky L. Bartley
Janice Bass*
Deborah Battaglini
William Battles*
Virginia M. Stolarz-Bauer*
Janet & John Beccaria
Mary Anne & Richard Beck
Kelly & Scott Bell
Mary & Frank Bemis*
Bernadette & John A. Benvegnu
Isabella & Peter Benze*
Jeanne M. Berry*
Elda & Douglas Bielanski*
Sharon Darlene Bienlein*
Katherine & David Billings*
Darlene A. Bilsley
Joseph & Annette Blaine
Anne & Richard Blankenship*
Rose & Joseph Bond
Terri McCullough Bond
Glorianne R. Bora*
Virginia & Peter Botsford*
Sr. Florence G. Bovy
Corazon Boyce
Charles Bozonier
Catherine Brady*
Bert L. Braig
Rosa & Sean Braig
Judith Brandlin*
Estate of Jean & Robert S. Brazelton, Sr.*
Jeanne Brennan
Dolores A. Brown*
Jean May Brown*
Victoria Brown*
Mary E. Bryant*
Robert A. Buchanan
Debbie Buckingham
Maria Buckowski
Ana Maria & Bruno Buczkowski
Carole Buerkle*
Carmela Burke
Patricia Erb & Brent Burley*
Mirta & Paul Burns
Warren & Susan Butterfield
Judith & Kenneth Buttke
Susan M. Byrne
C
Julita L. Cabillan
Cheryl & Patrick Cable
Shelley & Mark Calde
Robert & Betty Callahan
Mary Anne & Alfred J. Camarillo
James & Jan Campanile
Irma & Steven Canzano
Julian & Shirley Capata
Laura & Bruno Capitani*
Linda & Joseph Caravana*
Julie Casonhua
Susan Cass
Edward N. Castaneda, Jr.
Maria & Henry Castaneda
Rev. Gustavo Castillo
Delilah & Oscar Catalla*
Mary & Richard Cathcart
Deacon Jerry & Mary Joyce Cellner
Margaret Chen
Julia M. Cheung
Lorna & Clifford Christensen
Margaret Christensen*
Sandra L. Christian
Carolyn Conder Cianciolo*
Rosemary McDermott Claire
Susan & John Clay*
Brian M. Clements
Nancy A. Clements
Nancy C. Clervi
Arlin & Olivia Close
Sally Cogdill*
Charles W. Cohen
Jen & Jason Coito
Linda & William Coldiron
Helen Collins*
Dr. Christina M. DalPorto & Sean T. Collins
Karoline & Dennis J. Connelly
Martha & John Conti*
Leisa Contreras
Marsha G. Conwill*
Joanne & Kenneth Cook
Monica Cooper
William E. Costello
Michael L. Cotter
Sandy & Robert Coultas*
Steven & Catherine Crear
Dennis C. Crispin
Joanne C. Testa-Cross
David & Sandhya Crossley
Joseph Cruz
Patrick & Joann Cunningham
Dianne L. Curran
Charlie & Donna Curry
Pauline & Terrence Curson
Marion C. Czubiak
D
Lydia A. Danielski*
William & Marybeth Darusmont*
Michele & Pierre Dauphin*
Carol A. Davis*
Eileen Davis
John & Elaine Davis*
Martha & Richard DeBlois
Mary Linda Dedeaux*
Noelle & John Deinken*
Stella M. Derry*
Suzanne DeVaney*
Rachel A. Dexter
Arvin & Larissa DiCioco
Roseanne & Concezio DiGregorio*
Annette M. Diss*
Michael S. DiTolla*
Elaine Sylvia Dodge*
Joan Dodge
Lynda J. Doerner
Matt Dombrowski*
Maria Luisa Domingo
Brenda & Nicholas Dominguez
Timothy M. Donahoo
Joseph J. Donovan, Jr.
Paul Dorr
Marion Dougherty
Erica Dowd
Beth Ann Downing
Marianne N. Doyle*
Mary Lola Doyle
Mary M. Doyle
Mary Therese Doyle*
Kathryn & Patrick Doyle*
Helen E. Drislane*
Sue K. Drisner
Norma M. Duffy
Carol & Patrick Duffy*
Elma W. Duke
Edna & Peter Dumaual*
Blanca & Timothy Duncan
Jean Dunvan
Lisa & Robert Durham
Armando & Mary Duron
E
Robert A. Eckert*
Patricia & John P. Edlefsen
Ruth Ann Edwall
Denise Edwards
Rev. Tom Elewaut
Sandi Elias
Ronald & Mary Jo Elkins
Diane Elwer
More than 200 sisters gathered in Columbus, OH for prayer, learning, conversation, and celebration. Sisters unable to travel participated virtually and through local discussions. Staff members and associates from the four regions also attended.
Sr. Mary Ann Culpert, SND Superior General, gave an overview of the worldwide community and the contributions SND USA is making to the vitality of the congregation. Prayer rituals invited reflections on God’s call in today’s world. Conversations about social issues (such as homelessness, food insecurity, and the needs of women and children) and SND responses were energetic. This gathering was a powerful testament to being of “one heart, one hope, one mission.”
Kaleidoscope of Hope
THROUGH A NATIONAL GATHERING
Thomas & Maryellen Emma
Maren M. Engh
Rosemary I. Erlinger*
Mary Lu Everett & Wes Wooten
F
James & Linda Fabry
Patricia & William Figge
Bridget & Mark Fischer
Mary Joan & Daniel Fisher*
Mary K. Fitzpatrick
Stewart Fordham
Marlene Forthun*
James Fortuna
Jo Ann Foster*
Letitia & Andrew Fox*
Mary E. Franz
George & Elizabeth Freitas
Richard & Rosemarie Freitas
Anita Fridy
Thomas & Kelly Fritsch
Brian & Lupe Fujita*
Joan M. Funk
Nadine & Ted Furey G
Sandra & Jose Gaitan*
Christi & Carlos N. Galan III
Ray & Gaby Galindo
Debra F. Gallagher
Theresa & Michael Gallagher*
Nicholas B. Gallagher
Christine & Siegfried Galonska*
Brenda M. Garcia
Cristina R. Garcia
Kathleen & Lawrence Garcia
Lilia A. Garcia
Lucy Garcia
Eileen & Martin Garcia*
Alma & Vicente Garcia
Maureen & William E. Garrett*
Tina Gath*
Czarina R. & Clemente P. Gatmaitan III
Amy K. & Joseph M. Gazal
Teresa & Roberto Geraldez*
Kathleen A. Gervais*
Eileen B. Gibbs*
Dr. Ann J. Gilbert*
JoAnn M. Gilbert*
Patricia K. Gilchrist*
Joan E. Giuliano
Margaret & John Given
The entire 2024-25 school year found Notre Dame Academy celebrating the school’s 75th anniversary. A highlight of the festivities was a spring gala. On that occasion, former principal Sr. Gina Marie Blunck presented the “St. Julie Billiart Making a Difference Award” to Chris Cervenak, of the Class of 1978. Chris was recognized for her exceptional commitment and international service, championing human rights and combatting human trafficking. Current SNDs serving on the NDA faculty are Sr. Donna Marie Appert and Sr. Mary Frances Wahl.
Kaleidoscope of Hope
THROUGH
NOTRE DAME ACADEMY AT 75
Diane Glas*
Donald & Margaret Glynn*
Kathy & Stephen Godfrey*
Paul M. Gofberg
Sally C. Gofberg
Georgia C. Marquez Gonzales
Nancy & Michael Gonzales*
William & Donna Gonzales
Laurel & Paul Goodman
Lynette Gordon
Rachel & Howard Gottlieb*
Pamela J. & Steven J. Goyeneche
Jamie & Jeffrey Graebner
Anita A. Granillo
Jeanne P. & Alan E. Grant
Renald & Lucie Gregoire*
Paula J. Griego*
Susan Griffith*
Kathleen & Paul Grimes
Annette M. & Glenn V. Groen
Patricia & Marc Groff*
Gabriel Guzman
Patricia Guzman
HLynn & Arthur Hall*
John M. & Patricia D. Halliday*
John R. & Patricia J. Halliday*
Deacon Joseph & Audry Hamamoto
Kathleen Hamrock*
Vanessa Hard*
Kimberly & Matthew Hardy*
Mariann & Timothy Harmon
Michelle & Timothy Harrington
Milton & Lois Harrion*
Mary C. Harris*
Lorraine Hartman*
Theresa Hausser*
Richard A. Havard*
Dr. Edward J. & Anne M. Hawkes
Laura & John Haydel*
Rachel A. Cabral Healy
Mattia & Thomas Healy*
Mary Anne Hedrick*
Leticia Hernandez
Maria & Ruben Hernandez*
Theresa M. Herrera
Jennifer E. Hess
Margaret & Gregory Higson*
Theresa M. Hilton
Harriet L. Hofmann*
Stefanie Holcomb*
Patricia Holden
Robert & Geraldine Hollingshead
Dale & Patricia Hollis
Susan E. Honnold*
Joan Horan
Peter C. Horan
Kenneth & Beverly Horn*
Madalyn Horton
Colleen L. House
Howard Brown & Sons Auto Sales, Inc.
Kenneth & Mary Howell
Eleanor Howells*
Shiao & Gemma Hsieh
Lori H. Hubbard*
Peggy J. Hubbard*
Christine M. Hudson*
Nancy A. Huerta & Salvador E. Rodriguez
Diane M. Hunn
Alma Hurley*
William & Ann Marie Hutto
Bernadette Inocencio*
Richard & Anne Interrante
J
Regina W. Janosky*
Sharon & Paul Joelson
Lara Pucik Johnson
Christopher W. & Kayla N. Jones
Mary Lou Jones
Maria & Raymond Jones*
Rose Ann & Thomas Jones
Linda & William Jones*
Daniel Jordan & Bridget Ebbert*
Marilyn Jorgensen*
John P. Joseph
K
Catherine & William Kaiser
Kathryn Kassar*
William & Anne Kazak
Kevin G. Keenan
Ingrid & William Kelly*
Kelly Rehabilitation Services
Grace & Gary Kennedy*
Sam J. Kennedy
James & Patsy Kiesner
Nancy & William Kilbourn
S. Irene Kim
Lisbeth A. Kimbrough
Marjorie Kirchhan*
Linda Klarin
Susan B. & Michael E. Klaus
Knights of Columbus Council #8072, Westlake Village, CA
Robyn & Michael Knoell*
Dr. Arthur L. & Carol J. Kobal*
Nancy Kofranek*
Margaret Kohner
Patricia & Raymond Krakowski*
Annette & Edmund Krause
Lynn & Edward Krol*
John & Joanne Kulka
Cornelius & Mary Kusnierek
L
Jane M. & John R. LaBella
Florence M. LaFemina
Ellen A. LaFrieda
Patricia A. Laney
Bebe Lanquist*
LaVonne M. Laughlin
Dave & Tina Lavendier
Mary & Alfred Lavorato*
Carol & Gary Lawler
Viorica L. Lawson*
Robert & Patricia Leamy*
James & Kathleen Lee
Lucia J. Lee
Ping Lee
Rodney W. LeGate
John & Leslie Lenko
Sandra & Don Leslie
A priority of the SNDs is to share resources with our global sisterhood and to celebrate our internationality. To this end, several sisters have facilitated the week-long annual retreats of sisters in other areas. Sr. Leanne Hubbard traveled to East Africa in 2023. During 2025, Sr. Kristin Battles and Sr. Regina Robbins facilitated retreats in East Africa and India, respectively. Sr. Regina remembers that her virtual experience was unique since “I had to make a concerted effort to remember that when I was speaking to them at 8:00p.m. California time, they were hearing me at 9:30 a.m. the next day.”
Sr. Joyanne Sullivan, the Director of Catechetical Formation at St. Dominic Parish in Eagle Rock, finds great delight through her hobby of oil painting. She particularly values this hobby because it is relaxing and promotes creativity and mindfulness. Since 2008, she has hosted an Art Sale each December and truly appreciates the support of many parishioners and friends who purchase or commission one of her paintings.
Kaleidoscope of Hope THROUGH ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
Ann Lindahl
Kimberly & Mark Lindaman
Sharon Gordon-Link
Jean R. Linn*
Magda J. Lizardo
Lois F. Lofy*
Jeannette & Dennis Longwill*
Joanne M. Lopez
Ruben & Adriana Lopez*
Carolyn J. Lorenz
Kathleen A. Lorick
Jean Ann Lowe*
Carla & Raymond Lowe
Rebecca & William Lubitz*
Gerard Luk-Pat
Kevin & Andrea Lunde
Kristin & Kenderton Lynch
M
Marilou & Linesto Macahilig*
Diana Kennedy & Spencer MacNeil
Susan Maday
Kathleen & Drew Madrigal*
Linda & Robert Maguire
Nancy Mahoney*
Michella J. Manning*
Gina M. Marcaccio
Patricia & John Marcello*
Mary Ann Marcus*
Geoffrey D. & Linda L. Marshall
Patricia & Mark Marsolino*
Roslyn M. Martich*
Jacqueline & Kevin Mason
Judy E. Matsui
Miriam & John Matulich*
Katherine McBride
Ronald McCloud
Teresa & Kevin McCormick
Michael P. & Irene E. McCoy*
Patricia & Robert McDonald*
June McGahey
Gary & Jean McHatton*
Francis J. McHugh*
Catherine Lazaran-McKee
Robert & Donna McKennon*
Beatrice & Robert McMaster*
Vincent & Caitlin McNally
David & Frances McNamee*
Bobbi Brown McRae*
Sean R. McSherry
Anna C. McVerry*
Margaret & Daniel Meland*
Giuliana Mellody
Julita Mendoza
Jane Meros
Meghan Meros
James & Renee Meskauskas*
Ronald J. Meyer*
John Meyers & Rita McClellan
Taide V. Mier-Vera
Maura & Joseph Miles
Brian & Ann Marie Miller
Diane L. Miller
Terry Miller*
Clairemarie Minez
Patrick & Lynette Monaco
Paul & Karen Montagna
John & Kathleen Moohr*
Raymond L. Moon*
Thomas F. & Charla M. Mooney
Timothy & Crystal Mooney
Gloria & Leonard Mora
Morna B. Moran
Rev. Msgr. John T. Moretta
Denise & Christopher Morris*
Carol Morrissette
Yvette Moss*
Karen & Victor Moy*
Catherine & Sean Mullaney
Jeanne & Laurence Murray*
NDonald T. & Joan P. Nardone*
Rae & Michael Nastacio
Sylvia Flores-Neal
Sadhana & Ratnakar Neurgaonkar*
Sylvia E. Newkirk
Rosette Nguyen
Angela & David Nichols*
Ann M. Nikirk
Therese L. Norris
Charles R. Northcross
Brian Nunes
Ana P. Nunez*
Joy A. Nunn
Patricia & Terry Nystrom*
As Sisters of Notre Dame, we recognize that an intentional break away from one’s regular routines is valuable for spiritual development. Hours and days of retreat provide formal reflections, personal prayer, journaling, small and large group faith sharing, and fellowship with others who are on a similar journey.
Advent Retreat: “Be still and know that I am God.” In the midst of holiday distractions, silence, stillness and mindfulness became treasured graces for the participants.
Mother-Daughter Retreat: The unique bond of mothers, daughters, grandmothers and goddaughters was nurtured as retreatants focused on their unique feminine gifts and their relationships.
Young Adult Silent Retreat: In an atmosphere of silence and solitude, this weekend included the opportunity to meet with a spiritual director. One participant’s concluding comment was particularly meaningful: “I discovered that I really didn’t need my phone.”
Twilight Years Retreat: “Senior citizens” gathered to reflect on the challenges and graces of the twilight years and steps to grow closer to the Divine.
Kaleidoscope of Hope THROUGH LOCAL RESTREATS
January, 2025 was most memorable for Southern Californians! The raging wildfires with ready evacuations, loss of life, displaced relatives and friends, disruptive power outages, smoke-filled skies, destroyed or damaged homes, churches and businesses--each of these realities was an opportunity to take stock of what really matters in life.
Fifteen Sisters of Social Service were in immediate danger and so they evacuated from Encino to Notre Dame Center in Thousand Oaks. It was our privilege to offer them safety and hospitality for one week. New friendships emerged through community prayer, meals, laughter, and storytelling. Even and especially in the darkness, we embraced our shared sisterhood.
Kaleidoscope of Hope
AS A LIGHT SHINING IN THE DARKNESS
O
Sharon O’Boyle*
John O’Brien
Sharon Ann O’Connor*
John & Patricia O’Keefe
Melody & Kevin O’Keefe
Mary Etta & Michael J. O’Neill
Mary & Richard Ols
Angela Salerno Ontiveros
Lynn C. Ortenburger
Christine H. Osborne
Our Lady of the Assumption School, Ventura CA
Paige E. & James W. Owens P
Ronald M. Padua
Maximilian G. Paetzold*
Paul Panetta
Lee A. Papania
Jacqueline K. Papier
Gregory Parrone
Janet Parrone*
Thomas & Therese Pasadyn
Deacon Jesus & Eloisa Pasos
Bartolome M. Pastor, Jr.
Joan Pastor
Carol Patnaud*
Thomas & Sandra Pavick*
Eugene & Emilia Pawlik*
Reese & Joanne Perkins
Susan Perkins
Cynthia & Douglas Perry
Mary Joy & Gerard Petry
James & Mary Pickerell*
Kathy & Louis Pilloni*
Florie Pineda
Stasys V. Pinkus
George & Kristin Pitt
Pledgeling Foundation
Antoinette Podesto*
Deborah M. Pohl*
Christine & Michael Pohlen*
Robin L. Potchka
Betsy & Charles Potts*
Peter P. Prado*
Noreen E. Pucik*
Stephanie P. Purdy
Dennis Quinn & Joe Sanchez
Muriel M. Raabe
Jon F. Rager*
Nancy C. Randolph*
Amie L. Rang
Jeri Ransen*
Madeline Rasche
Michael Reardon
Deacon Jack & Sharon Redmond
Donald & Kathleen Reese
Anne M. Reilly
Antonella M. Reilly
Marc & Amy Jo Reinoso
Rose & Marek Relich
Gustavo & Anita Rendon*
Adele Rennie*
Jennifer Ocegueda-Reynosa & Fidencio Reynosa*
Vicki & John Rezzo*
Chad Ribordy
Regina Mc Shane & Vincent Ridge
Larry Riggs
Karen V. Rigney
Richard & Caren Rios
Margherita Rivoli*
David Robbins
Rebecca G. Rodriguez
Anne Rog
Sheryl & Patrick Rogers
R. Kevin Romano*
Helen Ronan*
Colette & Keith Rosenkranz*
Claudia Roxburgh
Kathleen Ruddy*
Laurel & Walter Rutledge
Tom Ryan
S Cindy C. Salomon
Barbara & Jose Sanchez
Janis & Robert Sanchez
Melodie C. Santana
Christine M. Sarver
John Sauder
John & Robyn Sauers
Victoria & William Sawtelle*
Maria & David Schinderle
Lynne & Thomas Schlarbaum*
Therese L. Schmoll
Theresa Schultz
Edna & Paul Schumacher
Denise Hart & Daniel Schwala
Joel W. & Kristin E. Schwartzman
Mary Ann & John Schweppe*
Ella J. Sciarra
Ann & Thomas Sciortino
Linda Scuderi
Regina N. Seely
Irene & Robert Segura*
Serra International
Marilynn & Michael Setka*
Sharvendra P. & Rosina D. Sharma
Vivien A. Shea*
Patricia M. Sheehan*
Kenneth & Claire Simmons
Dorothy Sinclair*
Anna Maria Skarbrevik
Sharon Skinner*
Rebecca Smissen
Deacon David & Deirdre Smith
Judy Smith*
Laura O. Smith
Samuel J. Smock*
Cindy & Sean Sneed
Fay Soesanto*
Maribeth & Gregg Spensiero
Michele & Russell Spoto*
Geraldine Spray
St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA
Laura & Joseph Staines*
Carol & Walter Stanley*
Deborah L. Staples
Joseph A. & Amy L. Stark
During 2025, these pioneers of St. Matthias High, Class of 1964, visited Notre Dame Center. They were delighted to meet one of their favorite teachers, Sr. Mary Antonine Manning, and enjoyed sharing stories and memories of their inaugural class.
Kaleidoscope of Hope BY FORMER STUDENTS CARRYING THE FLAME
A Lenten practice was assembling and donating bags of personal care items for homeless individuals. And several collections of clothing and bedding throughout the year help the residents of Tecolotlán, Jalisco, Mexico in collaboration with Fr. Gustavo Castillo, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Hawthorne, CA.
Kaleidoscope of Hope
THROUGH OUTREACH TO THOSE IN NEED
Patricia & Dale Stephens
Mike & Debbie Steuert
Sharon & Charles Stewart
Ann Storc*
Mary & Terrance Strouse
Lisa Stupar
Sandra & James Stutzman*
Kathleen M. Succa
John F. Sullivan*
Support Our Aging Religious* (SOAR!)
Michael Surwin
Rose Mary & Robert Swanstrom
Mary C. Swartz
Nora Szechy
T
Steven P. & Carmen Tangherlini
Genya Tarog
Cecilia V. Terminel
Miriam G. Antuna-Ternida
Judith & Gary Tetzlaff
Lawrence & Carol Thackery
Margaret Anne Theobald*
Lynn Theriault
Joan M. Thomas
Pauline & Michael Timoney
Tisna Tjahjana
Kevin Tomera & Lisa Vukalcic
Ellen & Bruno Tonin*
Robbie J. Totten
Clarice L. Tovani*
Rita E. Trejo*
Dolores & Daniel Trout*
Michelle & Peter K. Trumbo
Patricia Trutanich
Mary M. Tun*
Kathleen & Larry Turner
U-V
Donn Y. & Virginia B. Uehara*
Edward A. Valencic
Jesse A. Valenzuela*
Theresa L. Valenzuela*
Jose Valles
Deborah Van Deudekom
Anthony V. & Marilyn Varney
Pia & Anselm Varni*
Kathleen & Ernest Vasquez
Phyllis A. Verbeke*
Thomas E. & Maria R. Vestal
Luis R. & Maria P. Vicuna*
Susan A. Vigo*
Judith Villegas
Elizabeth & Alan Vincelette
Richard R. Vincelette
Lori J. Virnig*
W
Charles & Patricia Wallace
Darryl & Sally Ann Wallace*
David H. & Marilyn M. Walsh
Rita M. Walter
Marcia L. Wardenburg*
Linda & Bruce Warner*
Michelle & Derek Warner
Jessie L. Weddle
Francine A. Weisbecker
Ronald E. & Marlene D. Wengler
Donna L. Westerdale
Dona Whitaker*
Marsha & Rubin White*
Mary Whitney
Gloria & Jon Williams*
Laurie J. Winter*
Allen & Ingrid Wisniewski*
Patricia K. Witkoski
Sheila M. Wonders*
William & Susan Wood*
Irene & Joseph Woodall*
Y-Z
Patricia E. Yahnke
Paula Yermasek*
Matthias J. Yoong
Glenn & Bridget Younger
Kathy K. Yu
Elisa Z. Zamora
Mary A. Zecchino
As one of the pioneers at St. Julie Mission in Buseesa, Uganda, Sr. Jane McHugh is devoted to sharing her missionary heart. A religion teacher at St. Dominic School in Eagle Rock, CA, she shares her stories with the students and their families, encouraging them to support the mission through their prayers and contributions.
Through the generosity of many donors, Ugandan students have new computers at Notre Dame Academy in Buseesa, and pre-schoolers in Kenya have new playground equipment. Bridges Ministry from Lancaster, OH also funded capital improvement projects to benefit the Maasai children in Tanzania. THROUGH SND GLOBAL MISSIONS
Kaleidoscope of Hope
We apologize for any misspelling or omissions. Kindly notify the Mission Advancement Office to make any corrections.
Thank you again and may God bless you always for your kindness to us and to those entrusted to our care.
Kaleidoscope of Hope
...with greeting cards
Through our Gift of Prayer and Memorial Prayer program you can request prayers for your loved ones and their intentions, and the sisters will include your requests in their daily prayers.
Gift of Prayer cards feature a forest pathway and are suitable for any occasion: birthdays, get well wishes, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, anniversaries, or just to show that you care for the spiritual needs of your relatives and friends.
Memorial Prayer cards feature a rose from St. Julie’s Mission in Buseesa, Uganda. They offer a meaningful way to remember departed friends and loved ones and to express your sympathy.
Joann Schlarbaum prays with the names of those remembered by our donors.
TO RECEIVE A FREE STARTER KIT OF GIFT OF PRAYER AND MEMORIAL CARDS, EMAIL INFOCA@SNDUSA.ORG.
Kaleidoscope of Hope
...through recurring donations
Monthly gifts are one way to support the sisters in bringing hope, peace and joy. Your scheduled gift will make an impact in the lives of those we serve. Setting up a monthly gift is convenient and a consistent way to advance the mission of the Sisters of Notre Dame. Please visit sndusa.org to review monthly giving options. For questions, email infoca@sndusa.org. Thank you for investing in ministries, both nationally and globally.
Sr.
Creating a Kaleidoscope of Hope
...through the Wolbring Legacy Society
The kaleidoscope of life represents diverse experiences, feelings, and persons. We all fit together into a divine, organized pattern of beauty. Vicky Godar was one person who touched many lives through the beauty of her soul, expressed through an unrestricted bequest to the Sisters of Notre Dame.
A member of the original group of SND Associates, Vicky led an eclectic life with many interests: music, dancing, dogs, humor, but most importantly, her faith in God and ongoing spiritual development. She delighted in serving as the receptionist at Notre Dame Center for four years. The late Sr. Marilynn Palenchar reflected on Vicky’s gifts when she recommended her for the associate program. She wrote “Vicky’s simplicity and candor are great gifts. She is generous and thoughtful, and the Church has been a strong factor in her family life and education.” While recuperating from surgery, Vicky passed into God’s arms rather unexpectedly on November 14, 2003.
Remembering the Sisters of Notre Dame in one’s estate plan will create a kaleidoscope of hope, especially for those entrusted to the sisters’ care. A bequest may be unrestricted or designated for various purposes that are dear to the donor’s heart.
The Sisters of Notre Dame deeply appreciate our past and future planned giving donors, and we are humbled by their trust. As members of the Wolbring Legacy Society, we carry them close to our hearts and in our daily prayer, especially at a monthly Mass celebrated at Notre Dame Center.
Membership in the Wolbring Legacy Society is offered to those individuals who include the Sisters of Notre Dame in their estate plans. The only requirement is written confirmation of the donor’s intent to make a planned gift. Membership may remain anonymous if the donor so chooses. We would be honored to welcome you into the Wolbring Legacy Society, giving us the chance to thank you personally. Members are remembered at a monthly Mass at Notre Dame Center in California. Please be assured of our prayerful good wishes, now and always.
For further information, please contact:
Sr. Lisa Megaffin, SND 1776 Hendrix Ave., Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 805-917-3714 or lmegaffin@sndusa.org
Our legal title is Sisters of Notre Dame, and our IRS nonprofit identification number is 85-2630127.
Sisters of Notre Dame of the Un ited States
1776 Hendrix Ave. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 www.sndusa.org
Visit the California regional section on the SND USA website, subscribe to our monthly egram, or make a gift. Scan the QR code with the camera app on your phone.
