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The Dominican Sisters of San Rafael pictured March 2 in city hall chambers after receiving the "Citizen of the Year" award from the City of San Rafael. The award recognized the congregation's longtime contributions to the community at large in the areas of education, social justice and health care. (Courtesy photo)
March 10, 2020
Christina Gray
Catholic San Francisco
San Rafael Mayor Gary Phillips bestowed the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael with the "Citizen of the Year" award in a city hall ceremony March 2.
A written proclamation signed by Phillips detailed the sisters' "unparalled impact on the community in the areas of education, social justice and health care" in the county for more than 100 years.
It noted the sisters' contributions in educational leadership in Marin County starting with the founding of Dominican University in 1890, and other local schools, and their continued generousity in sharing the campus and resources with the public at large.
The sisters' involvement in social justice issues from immigration to affordable housing to advocating on behalf of the most vulnerable in our community has been a "beacon of inspiration and hope for all," according to the proclamation.
In a particularly long passage it detailed how the sisters have been models of respectful leadership.
"In an age where incivility permeates all levels of society, the sisters have shown us what it means to be thoughtful, patient and understanding."
The sisters' "quiet determination" has improved individual lives and the community as a whole, it said.
"They are silent warriors who continue to perserve, selflessly pursuing their vision statement: 'We reverence and affirm the inherent dignity of each person. We will work for transformation of attitudes and systems that deprive any person of dignity.'"
“We are humbled by this honor," said Prioress General Sister Carla Kovack. "We share this recognition with all our community partners, and most certainly with those whose shoulders upon which we stand."
