Ursuline Sisters at the Motherhouse honored Sister Suzanne Sims on April 29, 2025, as she retires from full-time ministry.

Sister Suzanne has spent the past four years serving as the director of Local Community Life, a wide-ranging role that touches many facets of the Sisters’ lives at the Motherhouse. Sister Sharon Sullivan, congregational leader, praised Sister Suzanne for her desire to embrace personal and spiritual opportunities for the Sisters living at the Motherhouse.

Sister Suzanne joined the Ursulines in 1967, one year after graduating from Mount Saint Joseph Academy. Her ministry career has included serving as a college professor and president, in elected community leadership, as the first director of Mission Advancement for the community, as an elementary school principal, and in parish ministry, where she was serving when asked to return to the Mount in 2021.

“Every experience of this role has taught me a lot,” Sister Suzanne said during a brief ceremony during lunch in the large dining room. “I feel like I’m a better listener, and a gentler and more compassionate person.”

She thanked the staff, Sisters Maureen O’Neill and Marie Joseph Coomes, and two Leadership Councils who supported her.

“I can’t wait to come back to without responsibilities and just visit,” Sister Suzanne said.

Sister Sharon led a short blessing for Sister Suzanne as Sisters and staff extended their hands over her. Sister Suzanne will decide how she serves next after a period of discernment.