Mother Clarissa Riehl

Prioress from 1949-1961

Mother Clarissa was the principal of the Academy from 1926 to 1943. During her time as principal, she began construction the Grotto with the Lourdes shrine, Stations of the Cross and Rosary steps. She served as sub-prioress until 1949 when she was elected prioress. She served again as sub-prioress under Mother Julia for one year. She was the Mother President of St. Gertrude’s Congregation from 1955 to 1961 and was the director of Ladies Retreat from 1937 to 1975. She resided in the Infirmary from 1972 where she carried on her own particular apostolate of prayer and keeping in touch with Academy alumnae, lady retreatants, and her other friends.