The Frances Murphy Rumely Award is presented annually by the Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Alumni Association to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to and leadership within civic, religious or educational organizations. The award is given in memory of Frances Murphy Rumely, class of 1935, whose life was a celebration of the education she received at her beloved Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. In her lifetime, Frances volunteered thousands of hours to her college and community.
Much like Frances, Anne Longtine, class of 1964, has dedicated countless hours to the advancement of her alma mater. Through a quarter century of service as the class secretary, Anne continues to keep her classmates connected with one another and The Woods. She has been described as the class’ selfless cheerleader whose passion motivates others.
As if that was not enough, Anne was called on to serve the Alumni Association as a member of the Board of Directors. Her terms provided the College with stability and growth in the Class Secretary and Class Agent programs, as well as a sustained increase to the Woods Fund. Anne’s efforts to encourage her classmates and fellow Woodsies to provide philanthropic support to SMWC contributed greatly to the Woods Fund exceeding $1 million in 2015-2016 and to its continued success.
Anne’s leadership goes beyond her ties to The Woods. She is a teacher with the heart of a servant leader. Throughout her 46-year teaching career, Anne always made time for her students. She volunteered for the extras beyond classroom hours. She helped many students experience Academic Super Bowl competitions where they learned from Anne the same values she was able to hone at SMWC—perseverance, determination and hard work.
Her service to Leo Jr/Sr High School near Fort Wayne, Indiana left an indelible mark on the lives of many of her students. She is bonded with these women and men. They have remained close with her. They share their successes, life’s milestones, and seek continued council from their trusted teacher and friend.
Anne attributes Saint Mary-of-the-Woods as playing an integral role in her formation as an educator not only due to her experiences as a student but also for her seven years in community with the Sisters of Providence. She credits her growth to the significant influence of the people at The Woods, particularly Sisters Alexa Suelzer, Cecilia Ann Miller and Mary Gregory.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is grateful to be a primary benefactor of Anne’s generous love and devotion. Her lifetime of service is an example to all alums of unwavering love for one’s alma mater.