(KAIR)--In a move marking the end of more than a century of formal governance, the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica announced January 23 that they will step back from active sponsorship of Benedictine College. The Benedictine community, founded in 1863, cited evolving priorities and a growing focus on ministries such as the Keeler Women’s Center, Sophia Spirituality Center, and care for the sick and elderly.

The Sisters emphasized their continued support of the college through hospitality at the monastery, collaboration on programs and activities, and ongoing relationships with students, faculty, and alumni. They acknowledged their role as co-founders and expressed gratitude for the college’s continued success while listening to God’s call in their new ministries.

A statement from St. Benedict’s Abbey and Benedictine College, released on the same date, expressed appreciation for the Sisters’ long history of guidance and support. The college noted that the Mount has shaped generations of alumni, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Wangari Maathai, as well as leaders in education, music, and service.

While the formal sponsorship relationship will end, the college said the close relationship and friendship with the Sisters will continue. The statement thanked the Sisters for their inspiration and partnership through more than a century of challenges, including wars, pandemics, and economic and cultural changes, and wished them well in this next chapter.