Sister deMontfort Kinchellagh, OP

Celebrating 70 years as a Caldwell Dominican Sister, Sister deMontfort Kinchellagh, OP, has dedicated her life to education, leadership, and promoting justice. After entering the community on February 2, 1955, she pursued her studies at Caldwell University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in education. She later completed a Master of Arts in administration and supervision at Seton Hall University, further deepening her capacity for leadership.

Sister deMontfort’s educational ministry began with teaching roles at St. Mary School in Rahway, St. Brigid School in North Bergen, and St. Mary School in Rutherford. She also served at Lacordaire Academy in Upper Montclair, where she spent time as a community supervisor and teacher before returning as a teacher for an additional three years. Her leadership expanded when she became assistant supervisor for Hudson County schools with the Archdiocese of Newark for three years.

Sister deMontfort’s administrative talents were further recognized when she served as principal at St. Philip the Apostle School in Clifton. She also contributed to Lacordaire Academy as the dean of students, director of recruitment, and head of alumnae relations. Sister deMontfort then served as principal at Lacordaire for six years, where her leadership inspired students and staff alike. She also served as the director of alumnae relations for eleven years at Mount St. Dominic Academy in Caldwell.

In ministry within the congregation, Sister deMontfort was a leadership councilor for ministry for four years and contributed to the administrative work at St. Catherine Convent for twelve years. For thirteen years, Sister deMontfort chaired the Commission of Global Issues and served as justice promoter, advocating for the Dominican values of peace and justice. 

She was honored with the Dominican Peace Award in 2008 and Caldwell University’s Veritas Award in 2017, recognition of her unwavering commitment to justice, service, and leadership. Sister deMontfort’s legacy reflects her deep commitment to education, service, and justice, and her life continues to inspire all who have had the privilege to work alongside her.