In celebration of Women’s month, I’d like to recognize and honor some of the great women who influenced and contributed to my successes in both my personal and professional life. I grew up in a Matriarchal family with very strong assertive women, most of whom were in leadership roles or positions of authority. From left to right in this picture, Sister Shirley Nugent, known to me as Aunt Shirley, was one of the most memorable people in my life.
Sister Shirley was a Nun who entered the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in 1950. Shirley earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, a Master of Science Degree in Counseling, and a Master of Divinity Degree from Pope John XXIII Seminary in Boston. She was both an educator and an administrator. She became the Principal at St. Vincent de Paul School in Mt. Vernon, Ohio. Shirley held numerous leadership positions throughout her career and was a very respected member of the Catholic community throughout the United States. The link below provides a great overview of her career. My most memorable experience with Aunt Shirley was when I spend two weeks with her in the Convent in Boston as a child. Her warmth, kindness and interesting stories will forever be forged into my soul. I couldn’t have been any closer to God when I was with her.
My cousin, Nicole Aiello, more of a sister than a cousin, Nicole also has been both an educator and administrator in the public-school systems of New York City and Providence Rhode Island. An ardent Progressive Liberal, Nicole and I have been in some very contentious debates across almost all issues. As an Independent Moderate, I have always come to listen, learn and be empathetic to her points of view. She has made me think critically and has broadened my perspective. Nicole has never shied away from a debate, and she always holds her ground, a testament to our common upbringing. Over the last 35+ year we have challenged, aggravated and in some cases walked away over differences in opinion; but at the end of the day, we have great respect and love each other. Political differences should not be the cause of an un-mendable rift between family or anyone else for that matter.
My Aunt Kathy (Kathleen Nugent) an Ursuline and Katharine Gibbs graduate who worked for Gillette for 30+ years supporting C-Level Executives. You will not find a stronger willed, assertive, and organized woman then Kathy. She may have defined the phrase, “Lean-in”. For anyone who knows about the position of managing and supporting some of the most “Type-A”, alpha leaders in the country, you know it takes a person with an equal persona and skill set to do so. Kathy was the aunt I never questioned growing up. When she took care of us and told us to do something, it was never up for debate. Kathy has always been a revered member of our family.
Last but far from being least is my mother, Sue Anne (Nugent) Brogan. A geriatric nurse by trade and a true humanitarian. My mother by far has had the most influence on my life. My Father, a merchant Marine Captain, was out to sea on a two-week-on-two-week off schedule and my mother ensured our family ran like a well-oiled machine. With 3 boys in toe, she was working and volunteering in nursing homes while ensuring the three of us were prepared for school, scheduled sports, and everything in-between. She always challenged us and pushed us to do our best and she never, ever put up with any disrespect or dissent. She, without question, has instilled in me the qualities of an empathetic leader and caretaker. My mother has stood by the side and cared for many of her friends who have passed on and she still, to this day, helps those families who have been left behind. She has traveled to Tanzania, Africa on several humanitarian trips to work in the villages, providing medical advice and education. On her last trip she had the honor of delivering twin babies for a mother living in the village where she was working. She is truly an amazing woman and would give Mother Teresa a run for her money.
These are but a few of the strong women in my life who have, in large part, made me who I am today.