Avenues Summer 2025
In this issue, we feature a history of our Department of Nursing Sciences and a generous gift the department recently received. Mary McEnery Harding ’84 and her husband, Dr. Al Harding (ND ’84) endowed the Harding Nursing Leadership Fund, which will ensure updates in equipment and faculty and student opportunities in the program. J’Andra Antisdel, an award-winning assistant professor in the Department of Nursing Science and a pacesetter in the emerging field of cyber victimization, is our Faculty Spotlight. Also featured Commencement 2025 and Reunion weekend, celebrating Belles across generations. Enjoy the issue!
Feature Articles
Nursing Programs Secure Enduring Support
Since Saint Mary’s was founded over 180 years ago by the Congregation of the Holy Cross, Nursing Science has become one of the College’s most sought-after educational programs. A quiet walk through Our Lady of Peace Cemetery illuminates the rich history of the program through the American flags dotting the graves of the sisters who served as nurses during the American Civil War. Just a few steps to the east is the Center for Integrated Healthcare Education (CIHE) in Regina Hall, a state-of-the-art healthcare training facility representing the empowered future of healthcare and behavioral sciences at the College.
Commencement 2025 - Deepening Roots, Expanding Branches, and Cultivating Good
The chilly winds did not stop the smiles and anticipation of the Class of 2025. At the 178th Commencement, the 359 graduates sat among joyful family and friends, full of celebration, as President Katie Conboy presented their diplomas, proof of their hard work and determination. Former President of Ireland Mary McAleese addressed the Class of 2025, speaking on her presidential theme of “Building Bridges,”
August 19, 2025
Summer Research 2025
Thanks to the Office of Academic Research, Grants, & Sponsored Programs, Saint Mary’s students and faculty conducted robust summer research projects across many disciplines.
August 19, 2025
Reunion 2025 Transcends Generations
The friendships rekindled and the stories shared transcended generations as 650 alumnae and guests from classes ending in zero and five returned to campus for Reunion 2025 this spring.
August 19, 2025
In the Spotlight: J’Andra Antisdel
J’Andra Antisdel is an assistant professor of nursing science, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in mental health and health informatics. A mental health nurse since 2005, she has been teaching since 2019. In early 2025, Antisdel was recognized by the Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS) for her research on cyber victimization. This significant achievement distinguishes Antisdel as a national leader in the field of mental health nursing. In May, she received the Karen Bush Schneider Faculty Scholarship Award from Saint Mary’s for her commitment to psychiatric mental health and the quality of life of individuals with chronic health conditions.