A wistful Deborah (shown here in her graduation photo) later enjoyed a career in the justice system.

First of all I thank my parents for valuing education and giving me an opportunity for a very good education.  And thank you for all the good Sisters who taught me - Sr. Raymond Theresa, Sr. Catherine Marie, Sr. Damian and Sr. Roberta Julie.  I didn't just learn facts and figures but processes, caring and joy. 

After graduation from California State University at Chico, I became a probation officer.  For years I dealt with troubled youth and their families and addicted young adults.  I met some wonderful people whom I think I had some impact on. I also met some people whom the best I could do for them was to recomend that they be kept away from society and innocent people!

I never married and, in retrospect, I think God had other plans for my life.  In 1984, my younger sister died leaving three children.  So at age 37 I became the mother of three, ages 12, 9 and 8. 

What a life adjustment! What I didn't know about school conferences, nutrition, soccer, Boy Scouts...But today they are all young adults and I have five "grandchildren."

I am retired now and enjoy volunteering and traveling and hope to continue to put my life to use.