Leading with Mercy: Reflections from the 2025 Leadership Forum
The annual Leadership Forum, hosted by the Mercy Education Board of Directors, took place on February 12-13, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. This gathering brought together heads of school, assistant heads of school, and board chairs for meaningful discussions on issues critical to the identity of Mercy Catholic schools.
The forum began with an inspiring welcome from the Institute Leadership Team of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, setting a tone of unity and shared purpose for the days ahead.
Strengthening Governance through Intentional Board Formation
The first day focused on Intentional Board Formation, a structured orientation to Mercy, Mercy Education, and board service within a Mercy school. Participants engaged in a high-level overview of the program, first launched in 2020, which is offered twice yearly to new Mercy school board members. This session served as an opportunity for reflection and evaluation, ensuring that the formation program continues to support the mission and responsibilities of Mercy school boards.
Keynote Speaker Dr. Caroline Thompson on Mercy Charism
A major highlight of the forum was the presentation given by keynote speaker Dr. Caroline Thompson, author of Be As Shining Lamps: Preserving, Nurturing, Reimagining the Mercy Charism. Her insightful sessions examined the Mercy Charism and its living presence in Mercy schools today.
In the two morning sessions, Dr. Thompson emphasized that the Mercy Charism is deeply rooted in the Gospels, mirroring the compassion, encouragement and love of Jesus. She prompted participants to reflect on and share with others from different schools their personal experiences of receiving and bestowing these gifts within their own communities.
She described charism as a dynamic, Spirit-driven gift—not static, but evolving as we respond to the challenges of the modern world.
Using an interactive approach, Dr. Thompson engaged participants in discussions about Catherine McAuley’s legacy and how it continues to shape the mission and identity of Mercy schools.
In the afternoon, Dr. Thompson introduced her book and guided participants in exploring how to apply its insights to their schools. She underscored that charism is an active, present force that requires continual attention and stewardship.
Through paired discussions, leaders reflected on key quotes from the book and shared personal insights on how they embody and sustain the Mercy Charism within their schools. Dr. Thompson concluded the session by identifying potential challenges in sustaining charism and urging school leaders to recognize and nurture its power and fragility.
Covenant Renewal for Mercy Schools in Belize
During the Leadership Forum, we had the joy of witnessing a meaningful moment—the covenant renewal for our two Mercy schools in Belize, Muffles College High School and Saint Catherine Academy. This renewal reaffirms their commitment to a shared vision and mission, deeply rooted in the spirit and ethos of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and the rich heritage of the Catholic tradition.
Honoring Sister Regina Ward, RSM
A truly joyful moment at the Leadership Forum was the opportunity to celebrate and honor Sister Regina Ward, RSM! Since the founding of Mercy Education in 2017, her steady presence, wisdom, and deep commitment to Mercy’s mission have been at the heart of our work.
As Sr. Regina prepares to leave Mercy Education in June, we give thanks for her unwavering dedication, compassionate spirit, and lasting impact on Mercy Education and each of our schools. In her tribute, Sister Lisa Griffith, RSM, shared: “Sr. Regina’s legacy is one of love, support, and unwavering dedication—not just to Mercy Education, but to God and the mission of Mercy itself.”
Celebrating Terry Quinn
Following the Leadership Forum, the Mercy Education Board of Directors convened for a meeting. The gathering included a special moment of gratitude for Terry Quinn, who is concluding his dedicated service on the board. Terry has served on the board since XXX and was the first lay leader of the Mercy Education board from 2020-2024.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Leadership Forum served as an enriching space for Mercy school leaders to reflect, engage, and strengthen their commitment to the Mercy mission. The powerful conversations and insights shared over these two days will continue to inspire and guide the work of our schools in the year ahead. Learn more about upcoming events from Mercy Education.
