Sister Suzanne (Theresa) Gallagher celebrates 60 years of religious life

Sister Suzanne (Theresa) Gallagher...
Sister Suzanne (Theresa) Gallagher...

Sister Suzanne (Theresa) Gallagher recently observed 60 years of religious life during a celebration July 17 at the Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto). She entered the Sisters of the Presentation in 1964.
Raised in a devout Catholic family, Sister Suzanne (Theresa) Gallagher’s upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and a commitment to serving others. From Cedar Falls to Dubuque, from Epworth to Guttenberg, Sister Suzanne’s passion for teaching and her visionary leadership have transformed the lives of countless students and families in the communities she has served.

As a teacher and principal in Catholic elementary schools, Sister Suzanne’s innovative approach to education emphasized the importance of art, music and hands-on learning. Under Sister Suzanne’s leadership, new programs were added including poetry and art appreciation, art and Spanish, guided reading, intensive phonics and content reading, along with an expanded music program.

Her work with school endowment funds, grant writing and creative fund raising were admirable, but her deep involvement with students and staff and the moral support she provided was paramount. Sister Suzanne believed “that every child is a gift, every child is gifted,” and she worked tirelessly to create inclusive and nurturing environments where each student could thrive.

One of the highlights of Sister Suzanne’s career came in 2004 when she received the prestigious Dr. Robert J. Kealey Distinguished Principal Award from the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA). This recognition was a testament to Sister Suzanne’s exceptional leadership and commitment to Catholic education.

After 42 years in Catholic education, Sister Suzanne worked in pastoral care, visiting patients and ministering to those with dementia at Good Samaritan Center in Waukon. Now retired from active public ministry, Sister Suzanne continues her journey of service through her role as Mount Loretto librarian for her Presentation community and as a member of the Land Justice Team in Dubuque. Part of the responsibilities of this team involves taking a deeper look into the enlightening study of the Doctrine of Discovery in the history of land colonization and its impact.

In reflecting on 60 years of religious life, Sister Suzanne expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve others and the many blessings she has received over the years and continues to receive in retirement. “In these later years of my life as a Presentation Sister, I’m making time to listen to music, enjoy visual art, create simple art, read beautiful poetry, engage in deeper conversations, explore genealogy and be a librarian. My life is rich in so many ways, especially in having more time with treasured friends and for prayer. The Great Spirit has gifted me abundantly,” expresses Sister Suzanne. “I have run the race of active ministry and now enjoy moments to recall and treasure the memories of family, friends and experiences that created my life in varied ministries. My heart is so full of gratitude and joy. Our God is indeed abundant in Mercy and Grace. Peace to all who touched my life.”

Read more about the Sisters of the Presentation, or send a note of congratulations or a gift in Sister Suzanne’s honor at https://dbqpbvms.org/news-events/jubilees/.