On October 3, 2024, the African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC) hosted its 25th Jubilee Dinner at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, D.C. This exclusive fundraising event gathered friends and supporters of ASEC together to celebrate the organization’s 25 years of transformative impact through the education of Catholic sisters in Africa. The event was an evening of meaningful conversations, storytelling, and a shared commitment to expanding ASEC’s reach further into underserved communities across the 11 African countries served by ASEC.
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Guests at ASEC’s 25th Jubilee Dinner in Washington, D.C., hosted at the Apostolic Nunciature, mingled before the evening began with an opening prayer by Monsignor Većeslav Tumir, First Counselor of the Apostolic Nunciature, on behalf of His Eminence Christophe Cardinal Pierre.
Guests were greeted by ASEC Executive Director Sister Draru Mary Cecilia, LSMIG and the evening commenced with a cocktail reception where guests were welcome to explore a few rooms within the Nunciature and mingle over hors d’oeuvres. There was lively conversation throughout the evening, united by a shared passion for support of ASEC’s mission. Monsignor Većeslav Tumir, First Counselor of the Apostolic Nunciature, spoke on behalf of His Eminence Christophe Cardinal Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States of America. Msgr. Tumir noted his experience of witnessing the challenges people face in Africa and how sisters of ASEC can affect their communities. During dinner, Sr. Draru detailed the impact that education has made in the lives of sisters and communities across Africa and how the sisters, in turn, have positively changed the lives of their beneficiaries. She highlighted how ASEC’s programs have enabled sisters to become champions of and leaders in education, healthcare, and social services, thereby enhancing the well-being of those they serve. Following Sr. Draru, Sister Nancy Kamau, LSOSF spoke about the critical role that partnerships and funding play in expanding ASEC’s initiatives into countries like Zimbabwe and beyond. The evening concluded with closing remarks from ASEC Board Chair Sister Barbara Spears, SNJM who detailed the impact her recent trip to Africa for ASCE graduations has had on her. She also expressed a heartfelt appreciation to all who made the evening a success, from the guests who have continuously supported ASEC’s mission over the past 25 years, the hospitality of the Nuncio’s staff, to the dedicated ASEC staff and volunteers.
Sister Draru Mary Cecilia, LSMIG, Executive Director of the African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC), shares with guests how education has empowered sisters across 11 African countries.
ASEC’s 25th Jubilee Dinner at the Nunciature was more than just a celebration of past achievements; it was a call to action. The evening inspired everyone present to continue building a brighter future for communities in Africa through sisters’ education. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this remarkable evening. Together, we are shaping the next chapter of ASEC’s story—one that promises hope, opportunity, and lasting impact. Through the generosity and support of those in attendance, ASEC will further expand its reach and ensure that Catholic sisters have the resources needed to lead positive change in their communities for years to come.
Although this chapter has concluded, there are countless opportunities to support ASEC’s mission. Whether by sponsoring the education of a Sister or joining us at future events like our upcoming gala, your involvement helps ensure that this important work continues to grow, creating lasting growth for years to come.
