The Sullivan Ballou awards carry on his spirit by honoring members of the community who devote heartfelt energy to those around them.(Click here for the full text of the Sullivan Ballou letter). You are a wonderful example of the kind of powerful spirit that animated Sullivan Ballou. You are the Director of the St. Jane Spirituality Center for the Visitation Sisters. Having worked for many years in corporate America at Target, you chose to retire in order to follow your heart’s desire to give yourself wholeheartedly and full-time in service on the Northside. The St. Jane Spirituality Center is a beautiful new home near Visitation Monastery which you had built to confirm your commitment to the Northside community. With great vibrancy, at St. Jane’s you provide many services to the community:
At the St. Jane House you personify the contemplative hospitality of the Sisters’ spirituality while welcoming all to ‘be who you are and be that well”! This ‘Place ofDelight and Rest’ has become an oasis of peace and welcome for hundreds! Your second initiative, Alafia Place, (deriving its name from an African greeting that conveys tranquility, calmness, wellness and all good things) is an inspiring, and affordable residential community for people who are dedicating their lives to making a difference in North Minneapolis. Residents call Alafia Place home while they work to establish innovative and transformative community initiatives in the neighborhood. In recognition of the phenomenal work you are doing in selfless service to the people ofNorth Minneapolis and beyond, it is a pleasure to present you this award. We thank you, Brian, and we congratulate you! We would be honored if in six months you let us know how you used the award and how it affected you.
Elissa Peterson
Bruce Peterson
Susan Thomson
Dean Thomson