Sponsored Institutions - Stories

Miami Shores, Florida -- As Barry University’s 75th anniversary year concludes, our hearts are full of the many opportunities students, faculty, and staff had to engage with 18 Adrian Dominican Sisters who visited us - from near and far. From their peacemaking efforts to immigration and earth justice, the Sisters shared their ministries, communal stances, and how their work responds to the contemporary social justice issues of today. In true Dominican fashion, these learning experiences offered opportunities to build community with members of our university in an atmosphere of openness and respect. 

Another new offering for Barry this year was the hosting of the Adrian Dominican Associate Life formation sessions. Six sessions were offered by Adrian Dominican Sisters living in the South Florida area. Barry faculty and staff were invited to attend those sessions that held particular interest for them or attend all six sessions in preparation for applying for the Associate Life Program. 

In consultation with Mary Lach, Director of Associate Life, those faculty and staff members interested in becoming an Associate will work with the Sisters in a discernment process which includes a retreat and attendance at Mission Groups. Barry is grateful to Sisters Mary Tindel, Mary Fran Fleischaker, Margaret Exworthy, Margot Ruiz, Fran Madigan, and Evelyn Piche for serving as facilitators and sharing their wisdom on key aspects of Associate Life.

Associates are men and women, at least 18 years of age, who share through a non-vowed commitment in the Vision and Mission of the Adrian Dominican Sisters. While maintaining their own lifestyle and financial independence, they participate in the life and mission of the Sisters

In addition to formal gatherings, the university also completed the Founding our Future: Barry’s Living History video project. This project documented the personal interviews of 25 Adrian Dominican Sisters and how their lives influenced the history and culture of the university. Launched in 2011 by Sister Linda Bevilacqua, OP, PhD, the video project emerged from a partnership between the Adrian Dominican Sponsorship grant, Barry’s Department of Communication and the Office of Mission Engagement. These stories will be preserved for generations to come as we honor our Adrian Dominican heritage and the Sisters' contribution to making Barry what it is today.

As the university community reflects on this year of special 75th anniversary programming, we can certainly agree that the goal to deepen the institutional understanding of our Adrian Dominican foundation was achieved. In partnership with our founding Congregation, we are well positioned to foster future leaders and champions of Barry’s mission for years to come.

Feature photo: Facilitators for Barry’s formation program for Adrian Dominican Associates are, back row, from left, Sisters Margaret Exworthy, Fran Madigan, and Mary Fran Fleischaker and, front row, from left, Sisters Evelyn Piche, Margot Ruiz, and Mary Tindel.