The 50’s and 60" were the years I grew up. That seems like a long time ago to you, I am certain. It seems like a few years for me. The value system and the Catholic environment of St. John’s have stayed with me. Sister Alma taught us how to do math in our heads during the higher math classes and Sister Madeline taught fourth year Latin. The years of Latin have helped me in my profession and I have been able to assist others with finding meaning with words.

                                                                                                                                   Class of 1961

In 1965 I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mount St. Joseph’s in Cincinnati. Many questioned why I wanted to receive a degree in nursing; my life’s goal besides being a mother was to teach nursing. Later I received my Master’s Degree in Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing from The University of Virginia and have spent many years in my profession. The majority of them have been educating nursing students or nurses.

I am making plans to retire from working full time as an advanced practice nurse. However, I plan to share my knowledge with others. My daughter, Laura and I are starting a support group in the area for those with bipolar illness. I hope to continue working with the chronic mentally ill and to educate the public that these are illnesses of the brain.

St. John’s established an educational environment to learn for me and many others.

Virginia Osting MSN, RN