Sister JoAnne Goecke, Daughter of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, was filled with joy and gratitude on being missioned by her religious community to serve as principal; of Mother Seton School in Emmitsburg.

In coming to Emmitsburg, she is returning to her spiritual roots as a Daughter of Charity and her academic roots, having earned her undergraduate degree at St. Joseph College and student taught at Mother Seton School.

Sister JoAnne has served as teacher and principal in Catholic schools staffed by Daughters of Charity of the Southeast Province located in Wheaton, Oak Hill, W.Va.; Youngstown, Ohio; Washington, Richmond, Va.; Fayetteville, NC; and Macon, Georgia.  For the past two years, she coordinated a pilot project to establish a Medication Assistance Program for the uninsured in Aiken county, S.C.

When she reflects upon what is truly important to her, as an educator, Sister JoAnne recalls prayer.  She hopes to instill in her students the seeds of faith and with that the ability to pray.  "No matter where they are - they can always pray," she said.  "Teach the children beautiful hymns, beautiful poetry and beautiful prayer."