Notices
The ºÚÁÏÃÅUniversity Chicago community mourns the passing of Sister Ann Ida Gannon, BVM, former professor and president (1957-75) of Mundelein College. The college served as the last private Catholic women’s college in Illinois until 1991 when it affiliated with ºÚÁÏÃÅUniversity Chicago.
Sister Ann Ida died Sunday, June 3, after suffering a fall over the Memorial Day weekend. She was in the caring and compassionate hands of her sisters who loved her for 85 of her 103 years and was a source of great leadership, wisdom, and grace.
In Chicago, she also taught at St. Mary High School, St. Ferdinand Elementary School, and St. Charles Elementary School. She is remembered as a revered teacher at the primary and secondary level and within the college and University setting. Her young students at St. Ferdinand kept in touch with her through years via their creative newsletter; former St. Mary High School students remained loyal friends of Sister Ann Ida. She was a strong presence to the graduates of the former Mundelein College. At the dedication of the Ann Ida Gannon, BVM, Center for Women and Leadership she stated: “My life is a life of service. That’s what the sisters are all about.” Learn more about Sister Ann Ida’s legacy at ºÚÁÏÃÅin .
Beyond her academic responsibilities, she participated in the governance processes of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 1960, she was the youngest chapter delegate participating in the election of the congregation’s leadership.
Sister Ann Ida’s remarkable resume includes nine categories of personal contribution to the well-being of the world at large. Her involvement included serving on various boards related to higher education, civic committees, accrediting teams, women’s programs, and lectures to countless groups and interfaith communities. Recognition came to her through various awards, including the University of Notre Dame’s Laetare Medal and Who’s Who in America. Throughout her career, she received 26 honorary degrees and more than 28 prestigious awards for service in education or as an outstanding woman.
Visitation and Mass
Friday, June 8
Visitation: 10-11:15 a.m.
Sharing of Memories: 11:15 a.m.
Mass of Christian Burial: 1:15 p.m.
Marian Hall Chapel
1050 Carmel Drive
Dubuque, IA 52003
Burial will be in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery. In addition, ºÚÁÏÃÅUniversity Chicago and the Mundelein Alumnae Board will be hosting a Memorial Mass for Sister Ann Ida in late July.
Memorials gifts may be sent to the Sister Ann Ida Gannon, BVM, Center for Women and Leadership or made .
Please remember Sister Ann Ida in your prayers.