Meet the DHM

Ann Rowland having degrees in both education and nursing worked as a teacher and nurse in the school system She taught several years in the Catholic School System as well as interim principal. She served over 25 years in the New Jersey public School System working as a Nurse and educator in Special Education for the behavioral continuum.

After retiring from the School system she moved to Florida where she now serves the Sisters of the Diocese of Orlando as President of their Council as well as the Bereavement ministry in her Parish. The great gift of ministry as a Daughter of the Heart of Mary allows us to serve in every milieu to bring Christ into the world.

Patty Prendergast founded Adelaide's Place, a safe, daytime respite house in Atlantic City for women who are experiencing homelessness. They can have a drink/snack, do their laundry, rest, create art, watch a movie or play a game -- all in a setting that builds camaraderie that she likens to family. Patty said she recognized the need for Adelaide's Place and took the idea to her religious order, the Daughters of the Heart of Mary, who approved. Adelaide’s Place opened in 2002.

Early in her career, Patty earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Masters degree in Theology and Ministry. She is a Certified Social Worker and a Disaster Response Crisis Counselor. Sister Patty was born and raised in Atlantic County.