ALLEGANY, N.Y. – Sister Mary Gurley, OSF, resigned from her position at St. Bonaventure University July 1 to accept the position of dean of the School of Education at Georgian Court University in Lakewood, N.J.
Sr. Mary has served the University in various capacities since September 1998, when she became associate professor of education. She held that position until January 2002 and was awarded tenure in September 2001.
She was coordinator of educational services for the Franciscan Institute and School of Franciscan Studies from January 2002 to August 2005, after which time she took a leave of absence to participate in a Congregational Renewal Program held by the Sisters of St. Francis.
“Sister Mary Gurley provided invaluable service as coordinator of educational services to Sister Margaret Carney, OSF, when she was dean of the school as well as to me both as interim and then full-time dean,” said Michael Cusato, OFM, director of the Franciscan Institute and dean of the School of Franciscan Studies. “Her background and degree in education served her well as she informed and guided our students – many of them international students during the regular academic year – through their programs of study here at the Institute. She demonstrated during her tenure with us a profound gift of compassion especially for those far from home, language, friends and culture.”
Sr. Mary’s faith guided her decision when she was offered the position at Georgian Court University, drawing her in both directions.
“It was a tough decision to leave Bonaventure because of the Franciscan spirit that I found at all levels – that sense of being brother and sister together. It’s a unique place that I am very sorry to leave,” Sr. Mary said. “But at the same time, this move will bring me closer to my religious community, which is in Philadelphia.”