The Sister Michelle Carroll Society

When the Sisters of Mercy selected Sr. M. Michelle Carroll, RSM as the founding principal for the new Mercy High School, they saw a visionary leader. A bold spirit. A formidable intellect. A gentle presence.

Born in Florida on Christmas Day 1921, Sr. Michelle earned her bachelor of science degree in chemistry in 1944 from Florida State University. A research chemist during World War II, she helped develop Vitamin C supplements for U.S. soldiers. As a young Sister of Mercy, Sr. Michelle taught at Mount Saint Agnes High School and College, and later served as a teacher and principal at St. Vincent’s Academy in Savannah. In 1958, Sr. Michelle earned a master’s degree in education from what is now Loyola University Maryland, with certifications in biology and chemistry.

As Mercy’s founding principal, Sr. Michelle guided the inaugural faculty and designed an innovative curriculum that transformed Mercy students into thinkers, learners and leaders. Her unshakeable confidence in the potential of a Mercy Girl continues as a hallmark of a Mercy education today. the Sr. Michelle Carroll Society

The prestigious Sr. Michelle Carroll Society honors the pioneering vision of Mercy High School’s founding principal, Sr. M. Michelle Carroll, RSM, and recognizes Mercy’s most generous benefactors. As donors who give $1,000 or more each year, Sr. Michelle Carroll Society members form the foundation for all annual giving to Mercy. They are our strongest supporters and closest friends who have chosen to make Mercy High School a philanthropic priority. Members who joined in the 2014-15 academic year were designated as “founding members” of the Society in much the same way that Sr. Michelle is recognized as the founding principal of Mercy High School.

Sr. Michelle Carroll Society membership is based on an individual’s cumulative giving in a single fiscal year—July 1 through June 30.

"Sr. Michelle imbued a new school with a new spirit. When many schools were characterized by a lock-step approach to students and to discipline, she reverenced the unique gifts and needs of each girl. Her vision lives on at Mercy High School today."
– Sr. Patricia Smith, RSM, Chair, Board of Trustees

Sr. Michelle Carroll Society Membership Benefits

Members of the Sr. Michelle Carroll Society are recognized in a number of ways for their extraordinary support of Mercy High School. Throughout the academic year, members are invited to plays, concerts, and dance troupe performances, all presented in the state-of-the-art Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Auditorium. Members are invited to an annual gathering hosted by the president. At that time, the president will offer a “state-of-the-school” presentation, detailing the critical role that Sr. Michelle Carroll Society members play in ensuring that Mercy remains strong and vibrant. Sr. Michelle Carroll Society members will be acknowledged for their leadership giving in Mercy’s annual honor roll of donors posted online at mercyhighschool.com.

How To Join

For more information, please contact the Development Office at 410-433-8880, ext. 227.