Today, the University of Scranton recognized Margaret Ann O’Neill, S.C. with its Pedro Arrupe, S.J., Award for “Distinguished Contributions to Ignatian Mission and Ministry.” Margaret Ann O’Neill, S.C. is better known as Sr. Peggy. She is a familiar face to those who have traveled to El Salvador over the last three decades or who have recently attended the Ignatian Family Teach-In in Washington, D.C.
I recommended Sr. Peggy for the award probably two years ago but I can’t say that there is a direct connection between my recommendation and her having received the award today.
Sister O’Neill has lived in El Salvador for 25 years, most recently serving as director of Centro Arte para la Paz (Art Center for Peace), Suchitoto, El Salvador, a regional educational cultural center promoting peace through dance, art, and theological reflection. Programs offered through the Center include workshops and seminars, as well as a museum, art gallery and library. She began serving in the Dioceses of San Salvador in 1986, assisting refugees and accompanying them during the civil war that was raging in that country at that time. She first worked in Calle Real, alongside Jesuit Refuge Service Volunteers, a group founded by Father Pedro Arrupe.
A highly respected long-time peace activist, Sister O’Neill has received many honors and awards including the 2008 Peacemaker Award of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace and the 2008 Ciudadana Ilustre Award, which recognized her work on behalf of social and cultural development in Suchitoto.
A theology professor, Sister O’Neill served as assistant professor at Augsburg College’s Center for Global Education in El Salvador and at Santa Clara University’s Casa de la Solidaridad in El Salvador. Previously, she also served as an associate professor of Iona College.
Sister O’Neill earned her bachelor’s degree from St. Elizabeth College, her master’s degree from Marquette University and her Ed.D. from New York University.
Congrats Sr. Peggy!
