Commencement at Aquinas College

 

Sister Mary Ann Barrett, O.P. ’66

Aquinas College Alumni Engagement Officer

Sister Mary Ann has lived 63 years as a Dominican Sister. In listening to the promptings of God’s Spirit, she has had varied ministries. She has been blessed as a teacher, campus minister, vocation director, parish mission preacher, pastoral associate and part of a leadership team within the Congregation of the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids. She notes, "as I have BEEN blessed, I seek to BE a blessing to others." As a lifelong educator, Sister Mary Ann responds to opportunities to advocate for justice and peace in our local and global communities. She draws inspiration from the call of the prophet Micah: “This is what God asks of you: To act justly, to love tenderly, to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).

Sister Mary Ann has been described as a "connector-of-people" who loves to engage with youth. Here at Aquinas, her high energy keeps her supporting campus musicians, artists, scientists, educators, athletes, thespians, faculty and staff. She has always been "a cheerleader of others," whose sense of humor keeps her balanced, humble and approachable.

Ministry with Aquinas College:
1982–89: Director of Campus Ministry
2018–present: Alumni Engagement

Academic Life:
1966: Bachelor of Arts, Aquinas College
1973: Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Aquinas Institute of Religious Studies
1982: Master of Pastoral Studies, Loyola University
1990: Certificate of Pastoral Studies, Catholic Theological Union
2022: Aquinas College Distinguished Alumni Service Award