Forging Futures through Providence: OLLU PhD Students visit with Sisters of Divine Providence

On July 28th, PhD students from Our Lady of the Lake University’s (OLLU) Worden School of Social Service had a transformative visit with the Sisters of Divine Providence. Split into two groups comprising current and incoming PhD students, they delved into the history, spirituality and the profound connection between social work and Providence. In the Regan Community room, Sister Elsa E. Garcia, CDP, shared insights about seeing Social Work through the lens of Providence. She also talked about addressing the whole person in social work, incorporating faith, hope, and love as guiding principles.

Noting that for some people entering this field, social work is not just a career but a calling.  She encouraged the students to persevere through challenges, knowing that their passion and dedication would lead to positive changes and meaningful impact on individuals’ lives. She advised them to “remember that even failures can have a positive aspect if we can learn and seek the next ‘best ‘step forward. She urged these future professors to instill the discipline of seeing with the eyes of Providence?

The other group gathered in the St. Joseph Conference room, where Sister Joyce Detzel, CDP, and Dr. Mo Cuevas, Ph.D. (Dean of the OLLU School of Professional Studies and Worden School) shared the history of OLLU and the Congregation. Sister Joyce cited the fire incident at Sacred Heart Chapel as an analogy for finding hope in the darkest times. She emphasized, “In the darkest of times, where no one wants to be, as a social worker, you will be there, and through Providence, see hope.  As our wounds heal they are shaped by God, and you will use what you learned throughout your ministry and service as social workers. Nothing is lost with God.”

Did You Know: Established in 1942, OLLU's Worden School of Social Service was the first school of social work in Texas.

The students also had the privilege of exploring the Congregation’s heritage room, led by Sister Charlotte Mary Kitowski, the CDP archivist. This room houses a treasure trove of historical artifacts, photographs, and documents, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary journey of the Sisters of Divine Providence. Sister Charlotte passionately shared anecdotes and stories, taking the students on a captivating journey through time. They learned about the humble beginnings of the Congregation in 1762 and its remarkable growth over the years. Hopefully, witnessing the resilience and unwavering dedication of the Sisters throughout history left an indelible impression on the students, inspiring them to carry on the legacy of service and compassion in their own careers.

Did You Know: Within the first 20 years in the United States, from 1866 to 1886, the Sisters were in over 20 schools. Over the course of 100 years, their presence expanded to 160 schools across 8 states. And by the remarkable milestone of 150 years, the Sisters had established a presence in more than 1,000 different locations, spanning 42 states and 14 countries.

The students connected with the Sisters on a more personal level during a shared lunch. Over a delightful meal, they engaged in heartfelt conversations, exchanged experiences, and fostered connections. The Sisters’ warmth and wisdom were evident as they shared their own journeys, providing guidance to the aspiring PhD students.