My Manor Story: Dr. Anne DeSantis ’87
Dr. Anne DeSantis talks about her own experience with Manor.
My name is Dr. Anne DeSantis, and I am proud to be a 1987 graduate of Manor College. I earned an Associate of Science degree in Business through the Medical Secretarial Program, a program that no longer exists but had a profound impact in shaping my life. Here is my “Manor Story,” a journey I am delighted to share.
I graduated from high school in 1983, not far from Manor. Back then, in the early 1980s, pursuing higher education wasn’t emphasized as strongly as it is today. My guidance counselor at the time suggested I consider entering the workforce immediately, as my high school grades were average at best. She proposed clerical work or community college as options. After some reflection, I chose the latter and spent two years at my local community college.
However, I struggled to find clarity in my path. I changed majors, wrestled with uncertainty, and considered stepping away from college entirely. At a crossroads, I sought advice from my mother, who encouraged me to apply to what was then Manor Junior College. I followed her advice and enrolled in the Medical Secretarial Program, a decision that aligned with my interest in working in a medical office setting.
From the moment I stepped onto Manor’s campus, I was struck by the warmth and kindness of the staff, instructors, and the Sisters. It truly felt like home. As a commuter balancing a part-time job, I appreciated how manageable the schedule was, and I found myself enjoying school in a way I hadn’t before. I became involved with the Student Activities Club, led by Sister Frances, and organized student events, which gave me the chance to connect with classmates and cultivate a sense of community.
Manor not only prepared me academically but also instilled in me the confidence to pursue further education. Upon graduating, the college awarded me a scholarship to continue my studies, which enabled me to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education at a four-year institution. With that degree, I became a Business Education teacher at St. Basil Academy in the early 1990s, a role that felt like an extension of the Manor family due to the shared connection with the Sisters of St. Basil. During that time, I also taught evening courses at Manor, a full-circle moment that deepened my gratitude for the institution.
Life took me on a beautiful journey as my husband and I raised our children. I took a break from teaching to homeschool our kids, an experience enriched by the skills I had developed both at Manor and in my teaching career. Once my children graduated, I returned to school to earn a Master of Arts in Theology, which opened the door to a new chapter of service. I became the Director, and later Executive Director, of the St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation, a Catholic nonprofit dedicated to supporting families in crisis.
The foundational skills I gained at Manor—time management, effective communication, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic—have been invaluable throughout my professional journey. They helped me navigate the challenges of leadership in a nonprofit organization and manage the intricate administrative tasks that come with it.
In 2024, I achieved a milestone that seemed almost unimaginable when I first began my academic journey: I earned a Doctorate in Theology (ThD). This accomplishment is a testament to the power of perseverance and God’s grace. It all began with the encouragement and nurturing environment I found at Manor College.
Today, in addition to my role in the nonprofit sector, I am an author and speaker, using my gifts to inspire and serve others. The combination of education, service, and communication allows me to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I owe much of this to that pivotal decision to attend Manor College so many years ago.
To the past, present, and future of Manor College, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Attending your events and staying connected with the college community means the world to me. I am honored to promote Manor and its mission, which continues to transform lives. My journey reminds me that, with God, all things are possible. Thank you, Manor, for being the cornerstone of my academic and spiritual journey. The education you provide truly sets the stage for a lifetime of growth and purpose.
Sincerely,
Dr. Anne DeSantis
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