Sister Joan Mary, who as a Dominican Sister living in the building that first became the literacy center, heard the desire of the neighborhood Latina women to learn to speak English. Being bilingual in Spanish with overseas experience, she saw the opportunity to answer a very present need in a multi-cultural community.
Being part of its growth since the founding in 1996, and returning in 2000 as Program Coordinator and then Executive Director, S. Joan continues to be excited in its expansion, vibrancy and ownership even by students. The qualified, dedicated staff and tutors keep responding each day in new ways, making it a happy place of learning.
In her free time, Sister Joan enjoys gardening and taking walks.