Sisters of Divine Providence Mark 150 Years in America with La Roche University Founders Day Covenant Ceremony

PITTSBURGH, June 26, 2026 – La Roche University and the Sisters of Divine Providence celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Sisters’ arrival in America with a Founders Day ritual and covenant-signing ceremony honoring their enduring partnership in education, faith, service, and justice.

The event brought together Sisters of Divine Providence, University leadership, trustees, faculty, and staff for a reflective celebration of the mission and values that have shaped La Roche University since its founding in 1963.

This year’s observance followed the historic gift announced in December 2025, when the Sisters transferred Providence Heights, their former Motherhouse and adjoining property, to the University. This gift further strengthened a relationship that has defined La Roche University from its beginnings.

During the ceremony, participants reflected on the legacy of the Sisters of Divine Providence and their longstanding commitment to education as a ministry of compassion, wisdom, and service. The program included the presentation of a commemorative memento highlighting the University’s motto, Ad Lucem per Amorem — “To Light through Love.”

The celebration culminated in the signing of a Sponsorship Covenant by representatives of the Sisters of Divine Providence, La Roche University, and the Board of Trustees. The covenant formally affirms their shared responsibility to carry forward the founding vision and mission of the University.

Immediately following the signing, the bells of the former Motherhouse tower rang in celebration of the anniversary and the enduring bond between the Sisters and the University.

Attendees were then invited to add their names as witnesses to the Covenant, symbolizing their personal commitment to the mission and values that continue to guide La Roche University.

“For 150 years, the Sisters of Divine Providence have served communities across America through education, healthcare, ministry to the poor, and justice and advocacy work, and for more than six decades they have shaped the life and mission of La Roche University through their founding vision and ongoing partnership,” said Dr. Christina A. Clark, President of La Roche University. “This covenant reflects not only our shared history, but also our continued commitment to education grounded in compassion, wisdom, and service.”

“As we celebrate 150 years of the Sisters of Divine Providence in America, this covenant reflects a relationship rooted in trust, mission, and mutual commitment,” said Sister Michele Bisbey, CDP, Ph.D., Provincial Director of the Sisters of Divine Providence and Vice Chair of the La Roche University Board of Trustees. “It affirms our confidence that the ministries of education, service, and compassionate leadership will continue to flourish through La Roche University for generations to come.”

The ceremony was part of La Roche University’s annual Founders Day observance and the broader commemoration of the Sisters of Divine Providence’s 150 years of ministry in America.

Following the ceremony, faculty and staff joined the Sisters for a picnic on the grounds of Providence Heights, continuing a tradition of fellowship and gratitude that has long characterized the relationship between the two communities.

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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