What's Happening

December 8, 2025, Adrian, Michigan – Weber Retreat and Conference Center will begin the year with a new slate of Lunch and Learn topics, from finding truth in today’s world to preparing for spring planting. The Lunch and Learn series is held from 12:15 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. monthly on Wednesdays.

Upcoming Lunch and Learn sessions and their topics are as follows:

•    January 14, 2026: Finding Truth in Today’s World. Members of the Adrian Dominican Sisters Communications and Finance offices offer tips on how to identify the truth online and how to avoid scams.

•    February 11, 2026: Casseroles and Crockpots. Warm up the cold winter day by sampling three dishes, including pineapple upside-down cake made in a crockpot. Bring your own recipes to share.

•    March 11, 2026: Habitat for Humanity Lenawee. Wendy Knox, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Lenawee, describes the work of her organization, including the repairs program, home construction, and the 20th anniversary of the Restore Store.

•    April 8, 2026: Getting Ready for Spring. Friends from the Madison Garden Center and Flower Shop – formerly Barrett’s Showplace Gardens – offer tips on choosing the right plants for your garden and timing your spring gardening projects. 

Sessions are free and open to the public. No registration is needed.

Bring your lunch. Drinks and dessert are available. You can also purchase your lunch at least two days in advance from Weber Center for $8, your choice of egg salad, turkey and cheese, or chicken salad croissant sandwiches with chips. Registration is required at least two days in advance if you order your lunch. Call 517-266-4000, or email your registration, [email protected]. 

Weber Center is on the campus of the Adrian Dominican Sisters Motherhouse, Adrian, Michigan. On East Siena Heights Drive, turn into the driveway between Adrian Rea Literacy Center and the solar panel-covered carport. Follow the signs to Weber Center. For information, call the Weber Center at 517-266-4000.

 

November 26, 2025, Adrian, Michigan – The Adrian Dominican Sisters received the Catherine Cobb Everyday Heroes Award in the category of Justice/Court during a ceremony that recognized heroes in 11 categories. The 10th Annual Everyday Heroes Celebration, sponsored by Catherine Cobb Safe House, took place on the evening of November 6, 2025, in the Adrian Armory Event Center. 

In addition to Justice/Court Hero, recipients were recognized as Animal Rescue Hero (for people or animals), Community Hero, Human Services Hero, Youth Good Samaritan Hero, Adult Good Samaritan Hero, Educator Hero, Law Enforcement Hero for paid staff or volunteers, Faith-Based Hero, and Military Hero. 

“There are many people in Lenawee County who provide help and hope to others every day, and we’re sure that every day someone in Lenawee County takes some action that rises to the level of heroism,” Jill Hicks, Executive Director of Catherine Cobb, noted in an acknowledgement printed in the program. “We may not be aware of all these everyday heroes – these wonderful, caring people who sometimes risk their own safety to help others or give of their time so generously to lend a hand when needed – but we are proud to honor some of those very special people tonight.”

The Congregation received the Justice/Court Hero award for years of work for local people who are unhoused; immigration services; and advocacy and work against the death penalty and human trafficking.

“For decades, the Adrian Dominican Sisters have embodied compassion, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to justice,” James E. Van Doren, Chair of the Lenawee County Board of Commissioners, wrote in a tribute to the Congregation. “Through your advocacy, education, and outreach, you have supported fairness and dignity for all individuals in our community. Your tireless efforts to promote peace, equity, and understanding have strengthened the very foundation of Lenawee County.”

Sister Frances Nadolny, OP, General Councilor, accepted the award on behalf of Sister Elise D. García, OP, Prioress of the Congregation, and the Adrian Dominican Sisters. She specifically thanked Jill Hicks, Executive Director of Catherine Cobb, and members of the Board of Directors. 

“For 47 years the people of Catherine Cobb have been heroes to everyday victims of domestic violence,” Sister Fran said. “We salute you, too, as we proudly accept this award for our work in social justice.” 

Catherine Cobb Safe House offers a variety of services to the survivors of domestic and sexual violence. These include a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency housing, basic needs, individual and group therapy, personal and legal services, education, and transitional supportive housing. 

The Adrian Dominican Sisters are long-time partners with Catherine Cobb Safe House, with Sisters serving as members of its Board of Directors. Catherine Cobb has also received support from the Congregation through Ministry Trust grants, given to nonprofit organizations in which Adrian Dominican Sisters minister, volunteer, or serve on Boards.   

Attending the celebration with Sister Fran were Adrian Dominican Sisters Patricia Leonard, OP, a recent Catherine Cobb Board member; Nancy Murray, OP, current Board member; Attracta Kelly, OP; Tarianne DeYonker, OP; Durstyne Farnan, OP; Theresa Mayrand, OP; and Mary Jane Lubinski, OP.

Sister Fran said the Everyday Heroes Celebration was attended by current honorees and their guests, past honorees, people who had been nominated, and people involved in Catherine Cobb. She was especially inspired by hearing the stories of other award recipients. “I was moved by the generosity of people and the fact that everyday folks were being recognized for the good things that they do,” she said. “It made me feel good to know that people are so caring and look out for each other.” 
 

Caption for above feature photo: Sister Frances Nadolny, OP, General Councilor, displays the Everyday Heroes Award.