Mercyhurst College - Thesaurus Yearbook (Erie, PA)

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ln Memoriam MOTHER M. BORGIA EGAN, R.S.M. To the magniiicent leadership and wise vision of Mother M. Borgia Egan, Mercyhurst College owes its existence, its atmosphere, and its ideals. Dedicated to the principle that Christian education is the Wellspring of a truly mature, cul- tured person, Mother culminated her years of work in diocesan education with the founding of Mercyhurst College in 1924, an endeavor which she saw completed in 1926. As active Dean of the college from its opening until illness forced her to assume that role only nominally in 1956, Mother M. Borgia constantly strove to improve the opportunities which Mercyhurst offered, and to maintain an atmosphere con- ducive to the full development of educated Christian women. Under her guidance, not only the curriculum, but also many Mercyhurst traditions took form as a part of her master ideal that true education witnesses the maturing of every facet of a student's being, intellectual, spiritual, cultural, and social. Although Mercyhurst College stands as a living memorial to Mother M. Borgia for all to behold, her own outstanding Christian womanhood serves as an even greater tribute for those who knew her personally. An intellectual giant both in her grasp of academic studies and in her masterful ability to plan and organize, she, nevertheless, remained at heart a woman of simplicity, warmth, and humility. Be- cause of her ability to meet both the great and the lowly with spontaneity suitable to each, all those with whom she came in contact were enriched by the experience of having known her. Mother Borgiais death on February ll, 1962 marked the passing of a great educator and a magnificent woman. 4

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Requiescat The enthusiasm and influence of Sister Mary Esther Malone faded suddenly from Mercyhurst campus with her death on October 10, 1961, leaving all who had known her with a deep sense of loss. Into her position as Acting Dean, which she assumed in 1957, she carried the same interest in her students' problems which had characterized her former service as Dean of Residence. Sisterls frankness and sense of humor enabled her to deal with students in such a way that they would respond to her immediately. Particu- larly, she demanded one thing of each girl, the fullest development of individual talents. She saw responsibility and dependability in a collegian as the key to success. Not only was Sister Mary Esther sincerely interested in the academic advance- ment of the student, but she also considered as very important spiritual, cultural and social maturity. Cultural opportunities evoked much concern from Sister who, as moderator of the Cultural Committee, endeavored to procure subject variety in the Concert and Lecture Series, thereby providing the girls with background not obtainable in classes, but of special interest to the college student. Sister's demand for excellence, characteristic of her own efficient procedure, per- meated the activities and curriculum of the Business Department which she headed from 1928 to 1957. Her role as Guidance Directress from 1950 to 1957 was gov- erned by sympathetic interest and genuine charity. An exemplary Christian woman, Sister Mary Esther, with her exuberant spirit, justice, and humor, created an atmosphere which invaded the person of each stu- dent. The pace of Mercyhurst's progress was set in the Deanls Office, its spirit radiated from Sister's desk. Her life truly stands as a challenge to those who studied under her, SISTER MARY ESTHER MALONE, R.S.M. 43 -if 5