Sister Mary Angela Shaughnessy has spent her life strengthening Catholic education through teaching, leadership and scholarship. A Sister of Charity of Nazareth, she is widely recognized for her work in Catholic school law and continues that work today while residing at Nazareth Home.
Sister Mary Angela began her ministry as an English teacher and later served as a high school principal. Her work took her to Catholic schools in Maryland and Massachusetts. While pursuing advanced studies, she discovered an unexpected interest that would shape the rest of her ministry.
At a time when few scholars were focused on legal issues affecting Catholic and private schools, Sister Mary Angela wrote her doctoral dissertation on legal considerations for Catholic school administrators. That work placed her among the early voices in the field and led to decades of teaching, consulting and writing. She has authored more than 30 books and has advised Catholic educators across the country.
Raised in Louisville’s West End, Sister Mary Angela attended St. Columba School and Mercy Academy before entering the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Her commitment to education has remained constant, even as her circumstances have changed.
Following knee and ankle surgeries, she moved to Nazareth Home when living independently was no longer safe. While the transition was difficult, the move has allowed her to remain active in her work. From her room, she continues to consult with Catholic school leaders and participate in online meetings and conferences.
Sister Mary Angela also takes part in the life of Nazareth Home, where she has found a strong sense of community and connection with other residents.
During Catholic Schools Week, she reflected on the role of Catholic education in helping students discover their purpose. She emphasizes that education is not only about achievement, but about helping each person recognize their gifts and direction in life.
Sister Mary Angela’s ministry shows that vocation continues across every stage of life. Her teaching, guidance, and leadership remain a gift to Catholic educators and to the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.
This story is adapted from an article by Mary Haynes published in The Record. Read the original story here.
Catholic Schools Spotlight — Sister Mary Angela Shaughnessy, a pioneer in Catholic school law