It is with great sadness that the Immaculata community has learned of the passing of Sister Mary Birster, IHM.
Sr. Mary served Immaculata High School as its principal for 16 years from 1992–2006, the longest tenure of any principal in the school’s history. Under Sr. Mary’s inspired leadership, Immaculata earned Blue Ribbon status, expanded the campus from one to three buildings with major additions to the science labs, music rooms, and athletic facilities, personally helping with the needed ambitious fundraising. The school’s vibrant Campus Ministry program was created under her guidance and the school’s technology and athletic programs flourished during her time here.
Sr. Mary, who even while a Principal still taught one Spanish class a year, had an uncanny ability to relate to teenagers and hire teachers who reflected her loving nature, faith, and dedication to academics. Her vision, kindness, and positive energy endeared her to all Immaculata students, parents, alumni, benefactors, as well as her staff.
While Sr. Mary was a humble and prayerful woman, she did allow herself to be honored only on behalf of her students and IHM community. She was inducted into the Immaculata Hall of Fame in 2016, received the Diocese of Harrisburg’s Fred Krohl Award, and was recognized by the National Catholic Education Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Services for Sr. Mary Birster are as follows: All services will be held at Camilla Hall, 100 Maxis Drive, Malvern, PA 19355. The viewing will be held on Monday, May 6, 2019 from 2:00–6:00 PM. A funeral Mass on Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at 10:30 AM.
We are better Spartans, because Sr. Mary graced us with her service. If you would like to remember Sister Mary in a Spartan way, please consider our
Guardian Angel Scholarship.