SW News: Sr Rosemary Connelly, 92, will be honored at Notre Dame's 178th University Commencement Ceremony on May 21 with the Laetare Medal, the oldest and most prestigious accolade presented to American Catholics, for her tireless advocacy on behalf of people with developmental impairments.

Connelly heads the Misericordia Foundation, a charity on Chicago's South Side that helps underprivileged children from birth to age six via residential care and other means. Around 600 local adolescents and adults, together with an additional 140 families, have benefited from her leadership since she was elevated to director of operations in 1969.

Fr. John I. Jenkins, president of Notre Dame, lauded Sister Rosemary's "characteristic tenacity, grace, and brilliance" for helping the residents of Misericordia, "as wonderful children of God," live up to their potential. She has inspired us with her wisdom, leadership, and generosity, so much so that we have chosen to present her with the Laetare Award.

She said that she had never doubted that God was watching over her. He even spoiled me," Connelly recounted, "by always making sure the appropriate people were in the right spot at the right time." That's hardly a coincidence, in my opinion. God has blessed me, and I am thankful for the ministry of Misericordia. It's a caring environment where children are treasured and supported by a committed team.

Connelly's contributions to the service have earned her nine honorary degrees, including one from Notre Dame. Among her numerous accomplishments, she has received the Order of Lincoln Medallion, Illinois' highest distinction for lifetime achievements; Ernst & Young's Illinois Entrepreneur of the Year Award; and Ernst & Young's Illinois Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Since 1883, the Laetare Medal has been presented on the fourth Sunday of Lent, known as Laetare Sunday. Notre Dame established the medal as a papal honor comparable to the Golden Rose, which dates back to the 11th century. The Latin phrase "Magna est veritas et praevalebit" appears on the Laetare Medal. Each year, a Catholic is honored "whose genius has ennobled the arts and sciences, illustrated the ideals of the Church, and enriched the heritage of humanity."