The Mount Celebrates Catholic Sisters Week 2025!

As we celebrate Catholic Sisters Week 2025, The Mount proudly honors Sister Peggy Ann Clinton, OP, whose 43-year journey as a Dominican Sister has been defined by passion, commitment, and a deep love for preaching, teaching, and fostering cherished traditions at Mount St. Dominic Academy.

A Lifelong Dedication to Faith and Education

Sister Peggy Ann began her ministry in education, spending eight years teaching grade school at Lacordaire Academy in Upper Montclair and Aquinas Academy in Livingston before earning a Master’s Degree in Religious Studies from Providence College.

From 1990 to 2010, she shaped the faith journeys of Mount students as a Theology teacher and Sophomore Coordinator. In 2010, she took on a new challenge as Vocation Director for the Dominican Sisters, inviting young women to explore religious life. At the end of her term, she returned to Mount St. Dominic Academy in 2013, where she continues to teach sophomores and juniors and serves as Junior Class Coordinator.

An Educator Who Shapes Lives

Throughout their four years at Mount St. Dominic Academy, nearly every student will have the opportunity to learn from Sister Peggy Ann in her Theology classes. Whether teaching sophomores or juniors, she plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ understanding of faith, ethics, and the Dominican tradition. Her classes go beyond textbooks, encouraging thoughtful discussions, deep reflection, and a connection between spirituality and everyday life. With her signature energy and passion, Sister Peggy Ann challenges students to think critically about their beliefs, explore complex theological concepts, and engage in meaningful conversations that prepare them for a lifetime of faith and purpose. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom, as students carry her lessons with them long after they graduate.

Keeping Mount Traditions Alive

Beyond her work in the classroom, Sister Peggy Ann is deeply involved in some of The Mount’s most beloved traditions. As Junior Class Coordinator, she oversees the entire Junior Ring process, guiding students from selecting their rings as sophomores to the moving Junior Ring Ceremony in their junior year. The rings, all featuring a signature blue stone, serve as a symbol of their journey at The Mount and a connection to the generations of students who came before them. Sister Peggy Ann cherishes this tradition, saying, “It’s a long-standing tradition, and it helps you remember where you came from—the place up on the hilltop.”

Sister Peggy Ann is also a dedicated event planner, having organized 24 Mount Proms. She loves seeing an event come to life from the early planning stages to the night itself, when students arrive dressed beautifully, ready to make lifelong memories. Her attention to detail and enthusiasm for creating meaningful experiences make these milestones even more special for students.

A Lifelong Connection with Alumnae

Her impact at The Mount extends far beyond current students—Sister Peggy Ann remains deeply engaged with the school’s alumnae community. She has built lasting relationships with students from the Class of 1992 to today, attending alumnae events and fostering connections that keep Mount graduates tied to their alma mater. Her presence at these events is a testament to the strong bonds formed during students’ time at The Mount and her commitment to keeping those relationships alive long after graduation.

Answering the Call to Preach

What draws Sister Peggy Ann most to her Dominican vocation is the call to preach—a mission she embraces wholeheartedly. She describes herself as a "teacher and preacher," finding fulfillment in living the Dominican charism and helping students connect their faith to everyday life.

"Sister Peggy Ann is a force of nature—her energy, enthusiasm, and unwavering faith make a lasting impression on everyone she meets," says Mrs. Christine Victori, Head of Ministry. "She challenges students to think deeply about their beliefs, encouraging them to ask questions and grow in their faith. She truly lives out the Dominican call to preach."

While she initially expected to be the one ministering to her students, she has discovered that her students teach her just as much in return. Their energy, curiosity, and unique perspectives enrich her experience and deepen her passion for teaching.

A Cherished Mentor and Educator

Sister Peggy Ann’s dedication to faith, education, and Dominican values makes her an indispensable part of the Mount community. Through her teaching and ministry, she inspires young women to seek truth, live with compassion, and embrace the Dominican pillars of Prayer, Study, Community, and Mission.

Recognizing the depth of Sister Peggy Ann’s impact on the school, Principal Dr. Karen D’Avino says, "Sister Peggy Ann has a gift for making faith accessible and meaningful for our students. Her dynamic presence and deep knowledge of theology help students connect spirituality with their daily lives. The Mount is truly blessed to have her guiding our young women on their journeys.

Students also share deep appreciation for Sister Peggy Ann’s guidance and warmth. Maya Tanella '25 says, "Sister Peggy Ann fills her classroom with love, God, fun, and pink! As a teacher, I have learned a lot from her and I am thankful I had her for two years. As a person, she is genuine, funny, and cares about everyone. Knowing Sister Peggy Ann is a great pleasure." Ashley Rhode '25 adds, "Sister Peggy Ann demonstrates such a clear care for not only her students but the entire Mount community, which truly inspires me and many other students to emulate the compassion she showcases. Having her as a teacher has helped me grow not only in my faith but also in my character."

A Celebration of Women Who Lead and Inspire

It is especially fitting to celebrate Sister Peggy Ann and all Catholic sisters during International Women's Week, a time dedicated to honoring the achievements of women across history. Catholic Sisters Week (CSW), observed from March 8–14, begins on International Women’s Day, highlighting the profound role religious women have played in shaping communities through faith, service, and education.

Throughout history, Catholic sisters have been pioneers—founding schools, advocating for the poor, and ministering to those in need. Their contributions extend far beyond the classroom, touching the lives of immigrants, children, and underserved communities. Sister Peggy Ann is a living testament to this legacy, using her voice to teach, uplift, and empower the young women of The Mount.

As we honor Catholic sisters this week, we recognize that their leadership, resilience, and dedication to service are deeply intertwined with the broader story of women's contributions to society. Sister Peggy Ann’s work is a reminder that faith and education are powerful tools for shaping a brighter future—one student, one lesson, and one act of kindness at a time.