Sister Joan Marie Brandner celebrates her 70^th Jubilee

Sister Joan Marie Brandner grew up on a ranch near Herreid, SD, and graduated from Notre Dame High School in Mitchell. Inspired by her love of teaching and serving others, she attended Presentation Junior College, earned a Bachelor's from Northern State College (University), Aberdeen, SD; a Master's from St. Mary's College, Winona, MN; and a license in Personality and Human Relations (PRH) through an international program in Poitiers, France.

For 18 years, Sister Joan Marie shared her energy and enthusiasm with middle school students in Sioux Falls, Milbank, Mitchell, and Madison, SD. She later served in parish ministry in Willmar, MN, as Vocation Director for Presentation Convent, and on the Presentation Sisters' Leadership Council.

In 1985, Sister Joan Marie participated in the Personality and Human Relationships program, describing it as, "one of the most valuable gifts from God." A devoted PRH educator, she accompanied adults, families, and students in faith and personal growth. She spent 20 years in campus ministry at South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, sharing the joy, compassion, and love of Jesus. A true prairie woman, she continues to inspire others through her gratitude and generous spirit.

Sister Mary Fix celebrates her 70^th Jubilee

Sister Mary Fix was born in Onaka, SD, and graduated from Cresbard High School. During her childhood, the Presentation Sisters taught catechism in her hometown, and after attending a retreat at Presentation College, she felt called to religious life.

After earning a Bachelor's degree from Northern State College (University) in Aberdeen, SD, Sister Mary devoted herself to the ministry of education. With her welcoming smile and joyful spirit, she taught elementary students in Catholic schools for 24 years in Dell Rapids, Mitchell, and Aberdeen, South Dakota, as well as Mound, Willmar, and Glencoe, MN. She later spent 19 years as a preschool teacher at Sandcastle Child Care at St. James Parish in St. Paul, MN.

Always open to new ways of serving, Sister Mary embraced volunteer ministry and taught English as a Second Language to adults. Her compassionate heart and gift for listening, naturally led her into pastoral care ministry with nursing home residents, where she shared comfort, faith, and companionship.

Sister Mary remains deeply grateful for the faithful support and perseverance of her religious community. Now fully retired, she enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends.

Sister Phyllis Gill celebrates her 70^th Jubilee

Sister Phyllis Gill was born and raised in Timber Lake, SD. After graduating from high school, she followed God's call and entered Presentation Convent. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Education and Bachelor and Master degrees in Pastoral Studies and Social Work, preparing her for a lifetime of compassionate ministry.

Sister Phyllis's service to others began by teaching elementary students in Anoka, Mound, and Willmar, MN; Mitchell, SD; and Miles City, MT. Her ministry expanded to include service on the Crow Creek Reservation; parish ministry; Catholic Social Services in Mitchell and Aberdeen, SD; Presentation College; and caring for others at Berakhah House. She served on the Presentation Sisters' Leadership Team and as Congregational Vocation Director. She then ministered alongside other US Presentation Sisters at St. Joseph Rebuild Center, a homeless shelter in New Orleans, LA.

Although every ministry was different, she welcomed each person with genuine warmth and hospitality. She listened and accompanied people from diversified backgrounds through many stages and challenges of life, all the while leading with compassion, understanding, and hope.

Fully retired, Sister Phyllis enjoys reading, puzzles, and quietly resting in the awareness of God's loving presence.