SSJ Named Woman of the Year

Sister Diana Dolce was named Woman of the Year by the Sons and Daughters of Italy Vincent Lombardi Lodge #2270. Sister Diana received the award during the Order’s annual Christopher Columbus Italian American Heritage Dinner Dance on October 27. The award honors “Italian Americans who are true role models and who exemplify the traditions and values of the Italian and Italian American heritage.” Additionally, the award recognizes “Italian Americans who have made a significant contribution to their profession and to our community.”

Currently the Executive Director of Hope Hall School in Gates, Sister Diana has been an educator for over 50 years. She founded Hope Hall in 1994. The school provides a multi-sensory learning approach for students who are determined “unteachable” in a traditional classroom environment.

“Growing up in an Italian family, I learned how important family was, and I learned that welcoming and treating others as family was a high value,” said Sister Diana during her acceptance speech. “My Dad taught us to ‘always side with the underdog.’”

Sister Diana thanked the Order for the honor, as well as the many members who have supported Hope Hall over the past 29 years. “Thank you for taking the children of Hope Hall into your hearts and embracing them as family.”