We were extremely blessed to remember one of our city’s most influential leaders, Sister Sandra Smithson, during our breakfast meeting this morning! Metro Council member Thom Druffel spoke briefly before giving way to James Robinson, the executive director of Project Reflect and of Smithson Craighead Academy – both positions initially held by Sister Sandra herself after she advocated for charter school legislation, and — after the legislation passed — opened Smithson Craighead Academy with her sister, Mary Craighead, in the early 2000s. Her mindset, both for herself and those around her, was simple: “You’ve gotta put God back into the schools.” Recalling her determination, Druffel recalled: “You didn’t say ‘no’ to Sister Sandra.”

Robinson and Frederick Strobel also spoke about two fantastic community events coming up on March 3: Catholic Charities’ “Festival of Hope” and Project Reflect’s “A Century of Grace” in celebration of Sister Sandra’s 100th birthday. Registration links for both events are below, with the Festival of Hope also offering sponsorship opportunities.

–Catholic Charities Festival of Hope – March 3, 7:00am, Catholic Pastoral Center

–Sister Sandra’s 100th Birthday Celebration – March 3, 12:45pm, Cathedral of the Incarnation

We’re also pleased to share the presentation that Robinson referenced during his presentation, so that our members can relive the great work performed by Sister Sandra throughout her life.

We look forward to seeing all of you for our next meeting on March 12!