Jeannine Percy was born in Chicago, Ill. She entered religious life on Aug. 30, 1958, and professed first vows on June 20, 1960. She holds a BS in psychology and Master of Religious Education from Loyola University Chicago, Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado, and certifications in healthcare ministry sponsorship and governance. She ministered as an elementary and junior high teacher in Minnesota and Illinois and served in diocesan ministry in religious education, Catholic schools, and adult religious formation in the dioceses of Superior, Wisconsin, and Colorado Springs. In her final 25 years in active ministry, she served in hospital and health system administration in mission, strategic planning, and governance with Catholic Healthcare West in California .
Sister Margaret (Mary Jane) Valois years of religious life as a Servant of Mary and within was born in Chicago, Ill. She entered religious life on Oct. 15, 1948, and professed first vows on Aug. 16, 1950. She holds a BA in education from Saint Catherine University, Saint Paul, Minn., and an MA in education with a specialization in remedial reading from Duquesne University, Pittsburg, Pa. She ministered as an elementary school teacher for 47 years in Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. She also served as a religious education teacher, vocation director for the Servants of Mary, and assistant with the TEC, Cursillo, and Fiat programs in several states and the Diocese of Superior. She is a spiritual assistant to Secular Servites and the Servite Lay Diakonia
Sister Rita Stoeberl was born in Almena, Wis. She entered religious life on Aug. 25, 1967, and professed first vows on Aug. 15, 1970. She holds a BS in elementary education from Mount Senario College, Ladysmith, and a Master of Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University. She ministered as an elementary school teacher in Minnesota and as an occupational therapist in rural Wisconsin and suburban Illinois. She participated in a missionary trip to Kapaka, Uganda, and served as coordinator for the Servite sisters at Addolorata Villa, Wheeling, Ill.
Sister Barbara Thomalla engaged in phone campaigns advocating for voter rights and homeowner protections in Minnesota. She attended the UNIFAS Conference and later visited Vietnam, including a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Sister Barbara Thomalla, OSM, volunteered at Casa Alita's migrant hospitality center in Tucson, AZ, during her vacation from her role as a public health nurse. She is a member of the leadership team from 2020 to 2024, a retired public health nurse serving her third term, and a 50-year jubilarian. She performs with Harmonic Relief, a show choir in the Twin Cities, which features folk, rock, show tunes, jazz, and contemporary music with choreographed dance. She joined the choir because she enjoys singing and performing and wanted a fun activity. Her favorite piece is "Ashokan Farewell" from Ken Burns' Civil War PBS special. Additionally, she represented the Servite Sisters at a pipe organ dedication concert in Spooner.
Sister Theresa Sandok has served as president of the community for the past 12 years, demonstrating strong leadership. She is a former philosophy professor at Bellarmine University. A Servite Sister, Sister Theresa has dedicated her life to serving others through various ministries centered on education, communication, and leadership within her religious community. Her impactful work reflects her deep commitment to faith and her order's values. She has also participated in the Collaborative Archive Project at Notre Dame and held leadership roles, including serving on the LCWR and Thomas Merton Society boards. Since becoming president in 2000, Sister Theresa authored the President's Message, notably addressing issues like human trafficking, gun violence, and Covid-19, highlighting her dedication to social justice. She celebrated her 50th jubilee and is a member of the U.S. Catholic Bishops National Advisory Council.
Sister Mary Helen Conley, OSM, was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 15, 1929. She entered the Servants of Mary in 1947 and professed her final vows in 1953. Sister Mary Helen dedicated her life to education, serving as a teacher and principal in various schools across Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska. She was known for her commitment to her students and her ability to inspire them. Sister Mary Helen also served in leadership roles within her religious community, contributing to the growth and development of the Servants of Mary. She passed away on January 10, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.
Sister Sandra DeGidio, OSM (1943-2017), was 74 years old. She authored 10 books, edited a newsletter for 20 years, and served three terms on a leadership team. Sister Sandra DeGidio portrayed Mother Mary Alphonse during the centennial celebration. She is the author of "In God's Embrace: Prayers for Health and Healing," her tenth book, and has written over 100 articles.
