The 3rd annual Night of Storytelling was an inspirational evening of shared stories, reflection, and community support for educating Catholic sisters in Africa.
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Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 3rd annual Night of Storytelling: Igniting Hope – Dare to Dream. The success of this event was made possible by every person who attended, purchased raffle tickets, or gave generously. Your unwavering commitment to ASEC’s mission is truly inspiring, ASEC is honored to have your support as we continue to transform lives and communities through education.
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Bottom row from left: Dr. Yerodin Lucas, 2025 Night of Storytelling Speakers, and James Sullivan.
Held on April 23, 2025, this year’s event was an evening of laughter, reflection, and most importantly, inspiration. Speakers shared powerful stories spanning ASEC’s 25-year journey, from ASEC’s founding to the life-changing work being done today. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, ASEC raised enough to provide three Catholic sisters in Africa with a full year of education.
Guests enjoyed coffee, tea, and an assortment of desserts, along with exciting basket raffles and a 50/50 drawing.
The evening began with a moving video tribute to ASEC’s Founding Mothers, followed by welcoming remarks from emcee Stacy Lange of WNEP and ASEC Executive Director, Sister Draru Mary Cecilia, LSMIG. Sr. Draru then invited Marywood University President Emeritus, Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., to introduce Marywood University President Lisa A. Lori, JD.
Attendees were treated to four compelling videos: a documentary on ASEC’s Founding Mothers and three short films showcasing how ASEC ignites hope, builds bridges, and creates lasting impact. These stories offered firsthand testimonies of the transformative power of education and the gratitude of ASEC-supported sisters and beneficiaries.
Featured storytellers—Dr. Yerodin Lucas, Madi Grose, and James Sullivan each delivered heartfelt reflections on their encounters with ASEC’s work. Their stories highlighted the far-reaching impact of ASEC’s mission and how their experiences have positively shaped their own lives.
Between storytelling sessions, attendees viewed the featured videos and eagerly listened for their raffle and 50/50 ticket numbers to be called. The evening wrapped up with a Q&A session, giving guests the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers and gain deeper insight into ASEC’s mission and impact.
To close the night, Sr. Draru offered final acknowledgements, expressing gratitude to the ASEC staff, family members, friends, and supporters who made the event such a success.
Ignite Hope
Catholic sisters in Africa embody the spirit of Igniting Hope – Dare to Dream, demonstrating how empowered Catholic women religious can transform entire communities. With your support, ASEC can continue to provide sisters with the tools they need to lead change. Join us in building a brighter future—donate today and help empower the next generation of women religious leaders.
This article is addressing the following UN Sustainable Development Goal(s):
Yerodin Lucas
Profiled in articleInterim Director of Institutional Equity and Inclusion and Title IX Coordinator - USA
Madilyn Grose
Profiled in article2024 Service Learning Participant, Marywood University - USA
James Sullivan
Profiled in articleHESA Liaison, Marywood University - USA
