Lasallian Women: Pathways on the Vocational Journey Towards Association | AXIS: Journal of Lasallian Higher Education

Heather Malia Ruple Gilson, M.Ed.

Abstract

This study examines the experience of five women leaders in the Lasallian Family and their journey of association for mission. Utilizing the Five Elements of Association—mission, community, dynamic journey, vocation, and free commitment—the paper highlights how these elements can shape and support the vocational experiences of women who now comprise well over half of lay Lasallians engaged in the mission. Using insights from five Lasallian women who served on the International Council for Lasallian Association and the Educational Mission (CIAMEL), this research reveals patterns of mentorship, formation, and the alignment of personal purpose with the Lasallian mission as critical components of vocation. As women become increasingly recognized as leaders within the Lasallian family, their vocational narratives illuminate pathways for commitment and stability for the Lasallian mission. The study offers observations and recommendations to support women in the Lasallian family moving forward. This article originally appeared in Revista Digital de Investigación Lasaliana – Revue numérique de Recherche lasallienne – Digital Journal of Lasallian Research in 2019.

Full Text

Lasallian Women: Pathways on the Vocational Journey Towards Association

Keywords

Lasallian women, association, leadership, vocation

See Full Issue: Vol 15, No 2 (2024)

About the Author

Heather Ruple Gilson, M.Ed. served as Co-Secretary of Association in the Secretariat of Association and Mission for the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools from 2018-2023. She currently is the President of the Institute Commission on Association and serves as Coordinator Lasallian Vocations for the District of Ireland, Great Britain and Malta. Heather is a graduate of Saint Mary’s College of California, a Lasallian Volunteer alumna, and has been working in the Lasallian Family for over 20 years in various capacities. Heather is an experienced Lasallian Formator and has a passion for Lasallian Vocation Ministry, Association for Mission and advocating for the voice and role of women and girls in the Lasallian Family. She currently lives in Oxfordshire, UK with her family.