News Post

On Friday, October 3, author Joseph Mannard, PhD spoke about his recently published book The Two Worlds of Ann Gertrude Wightt, which tells the fascinating story of a Visitation sister who left the monastery in 1831 and went on to become a leading socialite in Washington, D.C. He shared his research and writing process during two sessions: first with an audience of alumnae and parents, and later with Visitation Sisters, students, faculty, and staff. The talk was hosted by the St. Jane de Chantal Salesian Center.

Mannard described the “detective work” behind The Two Worlds of Ann Gertrude Wightt, noting that with few resources available, the monastery archives proved essential. He traced Wightt’s remarkable path as an early innovator in female education, the first “runaway nun” of her era, and later a Washington socialite active in “parlor politics” before the Civil War.

During his talk, Mannard highlighted Wightt’s role as a pioneer in female education. He explained that she was influential in shaping a rigorous curriculum at Visitation, including the purchase of scientific instruments from abroad in 1828—a sizable expense that demonstrated the community’s commitment to academic excellence. Director of the St. Jane de Chantal Salesian Center Kati Hylden Krueger ‘99 reflected on this aspect of Wightt’s story: “I learned a lot about Visitation in the 1830s. I was particularly interested in hearing about Wightt’s involvement in purchasing the science equipment in a time when many colleges, including Georgetown, didn’t yet have this type of equipment.”

Mannard shared that when the Archbishop learned of the purchase of the scientific instruments, he was not pleased, reportedly viewing it as a costly and unnecessary expense. He suggested that this reprimand could have contributed to Wightt’s decision to leave the convent, highlighting the pressures she faced even as she sought to advance educational innovation. Reflecting on this, Mrs. Krueger said, “It was interesting to hear about how this put the school into debt and the tension that followed. It reminds us of how important it is to continue to be good stewards of our resources even to this day.”

Mannard emphasized that Ann Gertrude Wightt is an important yet mysterious figure in American history and culture. He noted that after leaving the convent, she went on to become friends with Dolley Madison and several U.S. presidents, illustrating the remarkable reach of her social and political influence during her lifetime.

Isabella R. ‘26 said, “It was really cool because it’s interesting to learn about the connections between Visitation and Washington society. I didn’t realize how important Visitation was in the early City of Washington and in politics.”

The talk left attendees inspired by Wightt’s remarkable story and Mannard’s engaging presentation. Those in attendance appreciated the insights into both historical research and the two acts of Ann Gertrude Wightt’s life. Sr. Anne Madeline, VHM, said, “It was exciting and informative.”

The St. Jane de Chantal Salesian Center hopes to host more author talks in the future, continuing to foster dialogue between writers and the Visitation community.