The Sisters of Notre Dame, a grant-making organization, has officially opened their foundation in Morehead. The SND Eastern Kentucky Foundation officially opened January 1 of this year, and appointed Mindy Highley as their first CEO.
Highley said the sisterhood has a long-standing connection to the region.
“Sisters of Notre Dame were a part of this, have been a part of this community for 61 years, as long as the hospital's been here. They were here from the beginning,” said Highley.
Since the University of Kentucky acquired St. Claire Medical Center, the Sisters of Notre Dame have limited direct support to the hospital. Officials said despite this, SND’s commitment to the region is strong.
Highley added the organization aims to help support the region in facing its challenges head on.
“Our three primary areas of focus in the short run, in our initial startup year, will be health and wellness, education and career development, and quality of life. So, those are the things that we'll be addressing and supporting grants that help the people of Eastern Kentucky,” said Highley.
Officials said the organization aims to start their first grant cycle on July 1 and will seek applications from nonprofits in Rowan and all neighboring counties. More information regarding the SND Eastern Kentucky Foundation is available online at the Sisters of Notre Dame Eastern Kentucky Foundation website.