For more than 40 years, Sister Dorothea Sondgeroth, O.P., associate executive director for St. Dominic’s Foundation, has been a cornerstone of St. Dominic’s.
Beginning her journey as a dietitian and later teaching in the school of nursing while serving as director of dietetics, her commitment to this ministry has been nothing short of extraordinary. Sr. Dorothea served as president of St. Dominic Health Services for 17 years before she retired from that position in 2011.
Now, as St. Dominic Health, the ministry is strengthened by its alignment with the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System. While the name and logo have evolved, the mission remains the same: to bring hope and healing to all.
“It’s a privilege to serve in this Christian healing ministry with the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady,” Sr. Dorothea says.
A History of Justice and Change
When Sister Dorothea arrived, St. Dominic’s was still a segregated facility.
“We were trailblazers,” she recalls. “We were the first hospital to integrate our board, medical staff, employees and nursing school. It wasn’t easy, but it was the right thing to do.”
This groundbreaking work laid the foundation for a culture of inclusivity and service that remains today.
Her time at St. Dominic’s has given her a front-row seat to stories of resilience and transformation. Sister Dorothea fondly recalls a young man who worked as a dishwasher to put himself through college. That same man is now a federal judge, a testament to how the ministry changes lives and builds up team members.
A Future with Strength and Unity
Sister Dorothea is filled with hope for what comes next for St. Dominic’s.
On July 1, 2019, St. Dominic’s became part of the health system through a transition of sponsorship from the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Ill., who founded St. Dominic-Jackson Memorial Hospital in 1946. This change was more than administrative — it ensured that the healing ministry would continue to flourish for generations to come.
“It was providential,” she says. “Without this transition, we may not have had the strength to face challenges like the pandemic.”
A Message to Mississippi
“We’ve been here for over 75 years, and we’re here to stay,” Sister Dorothea says. “This rebranding symbolizes strength, unity and hope for the future. Together, we’ll remain a vibrant Christian healing ministry for all people in Mississippi.”
For St. Dominic’s, the transformation to St. Dominic Health is more than a symbol. It’s our commitment. Learn more.
