Remembering Sister Sheila Megley, SFHS President 2004-08

Jamie Lavigueur
Sister Sheila Megley, who served as president of St. Francis High School from 2004-2008 and was an integral part of shaping the vision of the school during that time, has passed away.
 
During her time as president, she was instrumental in both physical and spiritual transformations at the school.
 
She was one of the first, if not the first, high school leaders to implement the President-Principal model, which is still in place at our school today. She was also paramount in negotiations with the Diocese of Joliet during a tumultuous financial era in the school’s history.

Sr. Sheila is remembered by those who knew her as intelligent, energetic, and full of creative ideas.

“There were many positive changes at the school during her four years, but where she was most influential was in a change in our mindset,” said Principal Raeann Huhn, who began her tenure as principal the same year Sr. Sheila was hired as president. “She influenced us to take the lead. Instead of ‘Why us?’ she taught us to ask, ‘Why not us?’ She encouraged us to think outside of the box and reminded us to have a sense of humor along the way.”
 
SFHS President Phil Kerr, who served on the school’s Board of Directors with Sr. Sheila, remembers her as “a pioneer in the Catholic education world.”

“When she exited a room, there was no doubt that she had been there,” he said. “Without her help, the school may not have elevated to enjoy its current outstanding reputation. She will be sorely missed here at SFHS.”
 
As a school community, we are grateful for the memories and legacy Sr. Shelia leaves with us. Her unwavering commitment to Catholic education and the well-being of our students remain a lasting inspiration.
 
Arrangements:
Prayer Service & Visitation: 4:00-7:00 p.m. Monday, June 3, Mercy Chapel, 10044 S. Central Park Avenue, Chicago.
Visitation and Mass of Christian Burial: 9:30-10:15 a.m. (Visitation) 10:30 a.m. (Mass) Tuesday, June 4. Interment: Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery.
    • Photo: Sr. Sheila's 2007-08 Yearbook Picture

St. Francis High School