Sister Mary Madeleva, CSC Collection

Sister Mary Madeleva Wolff (1887-1964) CSC, was a prominent 20th century figure. She was a renowned author, poet, scholar and speaker. As President of Saint Mary’s College from 1934-61, Sister Madeleva played a significant role in the development of both Catholic higher education and women’s education. For instance, in 1943 she founded the School of Sacred Theology, the first and, for more than a decade, the only institution to offer graduate degrees in Catholic theology to women. As a Catholic intellectual, long recognized as one of American Catholicism’s most extraordinary women, she also was a spokeswoman for the education of women and an advocate for the improvement of the status of women in the Catholic Church and everyday life. A prolific writer with more than twenty books to her credit, Sister Madeleva also expressed her thoughts and opinions through numerous speeches and membership in various poetry societies. Amidst her letters are frequent requests for permission to use her poems. Hallmark cards especially loved to use her work for anything from Christmas to sympathy cards. This incredible woman touched the lives of many, and her reach went far beyond the grounds of Saint Mary’s College. Sister Madeleva, a dynamic speaker and writer had much to say, provided support and encouragement to many of America’s 20th century intellectuals. Everyone who met her could not help being caught up in the life and vitality that emulated from her. During her lifetime, Sister Madeleva personally corresponded with a wide range of prominent individuals. Thomas Merton sent her manuscripts for her to review before they were published. She talked with C.S. Lewis about his teaching and writing, discussed politics with the Kennedys and formed a close friendship with actress Helen Hayes. Her other frequent correspondents include famed physician Dr. Tom Dooley, British historian and sociologist Christopher Dawson, English actor and writer Robert Speaight, and diplomat and playwright Clare Booth Luce. Clare Booth Luce’s husband Henry Luce, then editor of Time and Life magazines, found Sister Madeleva to be such a remarkable woman and strong role model for future generations of men and women alike that he featured her in the June 10, 1957 issue of Life.