On the Feast of Saint Dominic, August 8, the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill celebrated their Transfer of Leadership, welcoming a new Leadership Team for the 2026–2030 term.
The ceremony marked a moment of both continuity and renewal as the congregation entrusted its mission to those elected to guide the community in the years ahead.
Sister Irene Ellis, OP, was installed for her second term as Prioress, having been re-elected by the congregation during the 2026 General Chapter. She is joined on the Leadership Team by Councilors Sister Nancy Richter, OP; Sister Aileen Donovan, OP; Sister Diane McSherry, OP; and Sister Marie Peter Buckley, OP.
“To be entrusted with a second term as Prioress is both a profound honor and a humbling responsibility,” Sister Irene said.
The Transfer of Leadership took place on the Feast of Saint Dominic, founder of the Dominican Order. His enduring legacy of preaching the Gospel, seeking truth, and serving the Church continues to inspire Dominican women and men around the world.
As the Sisters begin this new leadership term, they build on more than 150 years of Dominican ministry at Sparkill. The new Leadership Team will continue to guide the congregation in its commitment to prayer, education, justice, peace, care for creation, and the compassionate care of its Sisters.
A Grateful Look Back
The congregation also expressed its deep gratitude to the 2022–2026 Leadership Team for its faithful service:
- Sister Irene Ellis, OP, Prioress
- Sister Grace Anne Hogan, OP
- Sister Aileen Donovan, OP
- Sister Marie Peter Buckley, OP
- Sister Nancy Richter, OP
Over the past four years, the Leadership Team strengthened the congregation’s commitment to collaborative leadership, advanced initiatives in ecological stewardship and justice, deepened connections across the Dominican family, and continued the mission of preaching through compassionate service.
The team also guided the congregation through significant changes while caring for an aging community, with a median age of 85.
Rooted in History, Facing Forward in Hope
The new Leadership Team begins its term within the spirit of the congregation’s 2026 General Chapter theme: “Rooted in History. Facing Forward in Hope.”
With gratitude for the Sisters who have served and hope for what lies ahead, the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill continue to discern new ways to live their Dominican mission and respond to a world in need of healing, peace, justice, and compassion.
As the congregation enters this new chapter, the Sisters move forward together—rooted in the rich history of Dominican life at Sparkill and trusting in God’s presence as they face the future with hope.