Time to move on: Barbara Hagan Retires

Barbara Hagan first came to work at Loretto Motherhouse in 1977 at the age of 21, which was 45 years ago! She retired recently. Congratulations, Barbara! Well done!

When I asked what she liked best about her work for the Community and the Motherhouse, she did not hesitate to say that getting to know various people — sisters and co-members — was certainly a wonderful and life-transforming experience. She believes that her association with Loretto played an important role in her path to becoming a co-member and a global citizen.

When I invited her to name those who had played an important role in her life at Loretto, she mentioned several people. In particular, she remembers the kind and quiet leadership of Rose Alma Schuler, who left her a legacy of wisdom which she often passes on to others. She also received encouragement from Rose Alma to keep growing and to be all that she could be.

She also mentioned Marie Lourde Steckler, her boss, mentor and dear friend. Barbara said they made an awesome team and that she would “be her forever secretary.” She also spoke fond words of gratitude for Anthony Mary Sartorius, Kay Carlew, Maria Visse, Margaret Grace Elsey, Eileen Kersgieter and Angela Bianco.

As for the future, Barbara said she is not one to let dust gather under her feet. She wants to get her house in order then take people riding to see trees and get some fresh air. She wants to stay involved with Loretto and plans to do volunteer work in the archives. As a global citizen, she will continue to work with agencies with which she has become acquainted while at Loretto — Kentucky Resources Council, Heartwood Coalition, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth and the Kentucky Conservation Committee. Her parting words to all of us are to remember that “We never retire at Loretto Motherhouse — we just move on to bigger and better things.”