In a room filled with some of the Milwaukee area’s highest ranking
business executives, educational leaders and community leaders, Sister
M. Camille Kliebhan, O.S.F., chancellor, was lauded for significant
contributions to her profession as a teacher, leader and administrator
for the College. She received the Vocational Recognition Award by the
Rotary Club of Milwaukee, Inc., before a group of 200 Rotarians on April
8. Roger Dirksen, Co-Chair, Vocational Recognition Committee, made the
presentation.
In receiving this award, Sister Camille was praised for her extensive
legacy bestowed upon Cardinal Stritch College during her 42 years of
service. Her historical boundary-shattering abilities as the first
female president of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee were highlighted as
well as the substantial contributions she made in that capacity. The
award also recognized her important community leadership activities in
the advancement of ideas and services throughout her career, having
served on many boards as director. Sister Camille further received
recognition for her calling in life as a Sister belonging to the Order
of St. Francis of Assisi.
Rotarian Rick Luedke, in introducing Sister Camille, said, “Her
quiet, yet firm demeanor and strength in leadership have been obvious
with all the projects she has undertaken. Sister Camille is a visionary
who thinks outside the box when asked to bring solutions to any number
of problems.”
After synopsis of her contributions as a volunteer and board member
of many civic and religious organizations, a videotape was shown
featuring an interview with Sister Camille and scenes profiling the
diverse opportunities available to Stritch students.
In accepting the award, Sister Camille thanked the committee members.
She said, “As a woman who responded to a religious vocation many years
ago, I venture to say I have probably enjoyed a wider variety of
experiences than many other women. Who would have predicted I would have
the privilege of awarding an honorary doctorate to Barbara Bush…or have
my picture taken with Bill Cosby…or be featured on a Harley to promote
the Health Education Center? I am deeply grateful for having had many
diverse opportunities to serve others as a woman of the Church – both in
the Church and in the world – a satisfying and rewarding mission and
ministry indeed. Now in partial retirement, it continues to be my
pleasure and privilege to serve on a number of boards where one’s
personal and professional experience is welcomed and respected.”