Sister Denise Olshausky

Originally from New Castle, Pa., Sister Denise entered the School Sisters of St. Francis from St. Michael Church in 1964 and professed first vows in 1965.

It was during her teenage years at Shenango High School that she first became acquainted with the School Sisters who served in her parish. “They had something ‘more,’” she recalls. “I wanted to be part of that.”

Over more than two decades as an educator, Sister Denise served as a teacher and principal, including 14 years at the former St. Francis Academy in San Antonio, Texas. Her work also took her to ministry assignments in Mexico and Chile.

Sister’s most fulfilling ministry experience was the 25 years she served at an HIV care center in Barberton, South Africa., where, as a companion to both adults and children on their end-of-life journeys, she helped many to die with dignity.

She says the ministry certainly taught her to enjoy each day. “My favorite saying is, ‘Life is too short to waste being unhappy.’ I try to enjoy the ‘gift’ and make each day the best I can.”

Today, Sister Denise ministers as a part-time receptionist at Mt. Assisi Place personal care home in Ross Township and serves her community as needed. Her outlook remains a positive one. “Life has its ups and downs,” she says. “But no matter what, there is a reason for what is happening, and something good comes out of it all.”