Mother Veronica Ackerman

Prioress from 1898-1902

Born on June 18, 1857, Mary was the daughter of Simon and Elizabeth Ackerman of Jasper, Indiana. After preparing for a teaching profession, she taught in the public schools of Dubois County for several years and also conducted a night school over a two-year period. Sister Veronica taught in public schools of Dubois County before entering the convent. Sister Veronica entered the community on February 6, 1882. She started teaching in various schools as soon as she entered. She knew the Mother Foundress, Benedicta Berns, who was still with the Ferdinand Community until 1885. During her term as prioress, the tuberculosis epidemic was still rampant. She introduced to the community devotion to the Sacred Heart, especially that the Sisters would have the grace of a happy (and less tragic) death. She was concerned about the spiritual welfare of the Sisters, and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament began once a week on the Feast of the Purification in 1900.

A new slate roof was put on the monastery building, and landscaping improvements were made. Mother Veronica declined a second or any additional terms of office, declaring that “her health simply could not stand it.” After her term as prioress, Sister Veronica taught for 32 more years.