Dear Alumnae of dear IND, 



I am writing with some news about the Institute of Notre Dame. Since its closing in 2020, SSNDs and you, the IND alumnae, never wavered in their belief that IND still had the potential to improve people’s lives. 

On December 6, 2024, the School Sisters of Notre Dame announced the sale of the IND property. From the very beginning of this process, the School Sisters wanted to be certain that the future of Caroline Center and the surrounding community would be taken into consideration when redeveloping this treasured building. With the professional assistance of Cushman and Wakefield, the development team of Severn Development Company and CAM Management were identified as the appropriate buyers who would preserve and respect the history of the School Sisters of Notre Dame and allow Caroline Center to remain in its location. 

Since that time, much work has been done to create a plan for over 100 affordable housing units for seniors (age 62+) while preserving the IND building and legacy. The units will be surrounded by IND’s iconic tin ceilings, wood floors and decorative trim restored to its full beauty and additional renovations to meet 21^st century building codes and mechanical systems. 

We believe Severn Development Company and CAM Management are the right partners to rejuvenate the beloved IND by providing affordable housing for seniors and the opportunity for Caroline Center to continue as a workforce development center for women. The dream that the Institute of Notre Dame embraced on Aisquith Street in 1847, to provide educational opportunities for people to reach the fullness of their potential, will continue with this affordable housing opportunity and the Caroline Center sponsored ministry. 

The closing of the sale will occur today, Tuesday, December 23, 2025—a date that will be remembered by many whose lives will improve because of this revitalized property.

Let us continue to pray for all involved in this project which will continue the spirit of Blessed Theresa and IND into the 21^st century.

Christmas Blessings!

Sister Nancy

Sister Nancy Gilchriest, SSND

Provincial Leader

School Sisters of Notre Dame

Atlantic-Midwest Province

Congrats, Sue!

We are thrilled to announce that Sue Petti '74 is this year's winner of the Distinguished Alumna Award!  Sue was nominated by a fellow alum who said she is "the very definition of the 'Spirit of IND' - a loyal, compassionate, and tireless advocate for her alma mater.  A proud legacy alumna, Sue often shares that the best days of her life were those she spent as a student at IND.  That deep love has translated into more than five decades of active service and heartfelt commitment to the school and its community."

Furthermore, Sue was instrumental during IND's most difficult chapter - it's closure.  She served as president of the INDAA during that time and helped shape our non profit into what it is today.  It's safe to say that without Sue's guidance, leadership, and commitment, the INDAA would not be in existence.

Lastly, Sue's peer said "Sue's life is a testament to service, leadership, and compassion.  Whether through faith, profession, or recreation, she brings energy, warmth, and excellence to every endeavor - truly embodying the IND values in every sphere of her life."

Congratulations, Sue - this award is tremendously well deserved!