Sister Margaret Ann credits her parents for giving her a strong faith foundation and stable family life, both of which influenced her decision to enter religious life. During her time in community she has been involved in the ministry of education and her favorite quote from the Rule of Benedict supports her desire to be the best teacher possible: “Listen with the ear of the heart.” (RB Prologue: 1) She taught in Erie diocesan elementary schools before moving into secondary education at St. Benedict Academy where she spent 12 years until its closing in 1988.

Through the years Sister Margaret Ann pursued her natural talent for art by education and opportunity. She has participated in and won awards in various art shows over the years. In 1994 she was named artist of the monastery and also took on the responsibility of managing the community’s gift shop, Chapter 57, named for the chapter in the Rule of Benedict that speaks of the artisans of the monastery. For the past 22 years Sister Margaret Ann has been involved in ministry at the Inner City Neighborhood Art House (NAH) in a variety of capacities: clay teacher, artist in residence, and Art Coordinator. Since 2010 she has been the NAH Program Director. It is her hope and desire to continue to share her artistic gifts with children through her ministry in the safe, nourishing and caring environment of the Inner-City Neighborhood Art House. She understands that art is a means of helping children communicate ideas and grow in sensitivity to the world around them.