Vermont Business Magazine Sister Janice Ryan, a leader for education equity in Vermont, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 30, 2022, at the age of 86.
“She was a beautiful force for good and a social justice icon in Vermont,” said Mercy Connections’ Executive Director, Lisa Falcone.
Sister Janice Ryan in 2007. VBM fle photo. Read the VBM profile of her by Joyce Marcel.
With other Vermont Sisters of Mercy, Sister Janice, a former President of Trinity College, played a leading role in the founding of Mercy Connections when Trinity College closed in 2001. They created Mercy Connections to continue education, particularly Trinity College’s Women’s Small Business Program, a cutting-edge program that launched hundreds of women business owners in Vermont.
Senator Patrick Leahy said: “Sister Janice was a force of nature. She was a human dynamo. She made it her job to make policymakers uncomfortable as her way to achieving real change to help those who struggle. And indeed she made a real difference. The world is a better place for her selfless advocacy for others. I always felt a further connection to her when her namesake niece joined my staff several years ago.
“Marcelle and I went to be with her last weekend, as the end was near. We were so moved to be with her one last time, as we said a prayer and to let her know what she means to us and to countless others. With all Vermonters, we sorely feel this painful loss.”
Sister Janice, former deputy commissioner of the Department of Corrections and an advocate for the dignity of incarcerated women, helped start the Vermont Women’s Mentoring Program to assist justice-involved women in transitioning successfully back into the community.
“Sister Janice was deeply committed to the mission and work of our organization, which she championed throughout her life,” said Falcone.
In 2013, the Board of Trustees of Mercy Connections honored Sister Janice with the Catherine McAuley Award, the organization’s highest honor named for the founder of the Sisters of Mercy.
“Sister Janice epitomized women leadership for so many, myself included,” Falcone said. “We at Mercy Connections are humbled and grateful to carry on her legacy. We will miss her profound presence dearly.”
More information about the programs and mission of Mercy Connections can be found at www.mercyconnections.org or by calling (802) 846-7063.
Mercy Connections, a 501c3 organization founded in 2001, is an educational, values-driven social impact non-profit organization that empowers people to make significant life changes through education, mentoring, entrepreneurship training, and community.
Burlington, VT — www.mercyconnections.org 3.31.2022