“Legacy Doesn’t Stop”: Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Emmanuel Celebrated at Founders’ Day

Now in its 27th year, the Founders' Day celebration is part of a weeklong series of events centered on reflection of the founding of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur by Saint Julie Billiart in 1804 and the founding of Emmanuel College by the Sisters of Notre Dame in 1919. The event provides an opportunity for the Emmanuel community to reflect on the SNDdeN mission today.

Emmanuel College President Sister Janet Eisner, SNDdeN, Student Government Association Executive President Jessica Wang '19 and 1804 Society President CJ LaCreta '20 all offered remarks during the celebration.

Sister Janet addressed, "Vision—Story—Legacy, 1840–1919–2019." She reflected on many stories, ranging from those of the visionary Saint Julie and the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, who migrated to the United States from Belgium in 1840 to carry out their mission, to those of the many alumni, faculty and administration who have helped guide the College throughout its first century and continue to impact it moving forward.

"Saint Julie placed education at the heart of her charism, and believed in its goodness for the individual and for society," she said. "This mission—this vision—belongs to everyone in this room and beyond. The mission is not simply part of just one group or individual."

Sister Janet concluded her talk by addressing those present, prompting them to further share the charge of perpetuating the College's mission and to be an active part of the College's legacy.

"My question to you is 'What are the stories that you'd like to write as we begin the second century?'" she said. "What rising needs in our country and in our world can Emmanuel address today? Legacy doesn't stop."