The Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids is pleased to announce the hiring of our new director of Dominican Center Marywood at Aquinas College.
Mindy Hills is passionate about the ministry of Dominican Center and looks forward to helping it grow and developing new programming while maintaining the quality programs offered in person and virtually. She is dedicated to the process of discernment and following the promptings of the Holy Spirit, which help her to be a person of integrity and authenticity in her work ethic.
She is very familiar with the ministry of Dominican Center having gone through the spiritual directors’ formation program and serving as an apprentice in the retreat ministry of the Center. She became a Dominican Associate in 2019. We are grateful for the spirit of collaboration, creativity, and communication, organizational, and business skills that she brings to the position. We are also grateful for her compassion, empathy, and extraordinary listening skills.
Sr. Diane Zerfas, OP, Center for Spirituality Coordinator at DCM, says, “For many years, the Holy Spirit has been at work in the spirit of Mindy Hills. In our new location, with renewed energy and commitment, Mindy will provide leadership based in a firm foundation of Dominican life. Mindy already knows us and how we work to make the world a better place, especially helping seekers find their way deeper into the Holy. We look forward to seeing what’s in store under Mindy’s direction from the Spirit’s hand.”
“It is with a full and grateful heart I step into the role of Director of Dominican Center Marywood,” Mindy wrote upon accepting the position. “I am humbled by the gifts of your entrustment. With great enthusiasm and hope-filled hearts, we begin a new chapter together in our home on the campus of Aquinas College.
“I am confident the mission and values of the Dominican charisms will help guide us in relevant relationships that are steeped in prayer, service, study and faith-filled community enriching programs where ALL are encouraged to explore and grow their personal spirituality. I look forward to welcoming many others to our rich formation programs that allow for individual and community transformation, healing and wholeness.”
At this time, the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids also wish to acknowledge the leadership of Michael Wood, interim director of DCM since December, 2021. He has made great inroads in spreading the good news about DCM and widening the participant base for the spiritual direction formation program.
Reflecting on his time at DCM, Mike said, “My gratitude for the support and encouragement of the good Sisters, and the gift of the presence and inspiration of so many that have been touched and transformed by the ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids these many years. Your Legacy is amazing, and your selection of Dr. Mindy Hills is inspired and brilliant. Her knowledge of the Dominican Tradition and Pillars, and her awareness of the programs, retreats, and the talents of the many who aspire to be Dominican Associates will benefit by her leadership and example. Mindy’s authenticity is very transparent in her presence and manner, and she can bring many years of future service to the vital ministries of Dominican Center. I am confident Mindy will delight and amaze those blest by her leadership. Great Choice!”
