September 21, 2013
Allison Evans ’11: A White Habit, A New Name
By Vicki-Ann Downing
When she completed her first year with the Nashville Dominicans in July, Allison Evans ’11 received a white habit and a new name: Sister Cecilia Marie.
It was a fitting choice. Saint Cecilia is the patroness of musicians. Sister Cecilia Marie studied music at PC and then was awarded a full scholarship to study for a master’s degree in music theory at the University of Connecticut.
Cecilia also was the name she chose for confirmation in Monson, Mass. The faith instilled by her parents grew at PC, where she was inspired by the “tangible joy” of the Dominican priests. She was involved with liturgical music and Campus Ministry, and attended an “Encounter with Christ” retreat her senior year.
“It was during a moment of profound peace on that retreat that I first heard the Lord’s call,” said Sister Cecilia Marie. “What started as a small stirring continued to grow while I was in graduate studies.”
She entered the Nashville Dominicans in August 2012.
“I am continually filled with awe and gratitude of the goodness of God in calling me to be His own,” Sister Cecilia Marie said. “Saying ‘yes’ has been the start of an amazing adventure.”
