February 13, 2024 — Marist is restoring a piece of its history and renaming it in honor of an extraordinary and compassionate leader. The College will rename the historic St. Ann’s Hermitage on the north end of campus to Sammon House in tribute to the late Brother Seán Sammon. 

Brother Seán, FMS '70, was a member of the Marist Board of Trustees, longtime Scholar in Residence, and former Superior General of the Marist Brothers. 

Following the completion of a restoration project now underway, Sammon House will soon serve a dual purpose: a second-floor apartment for the Marist president and family, providing easy access for the president to all that is happening on campus, and a first-floor space to host community gatherings of all kinds, including celebrations, meetings, lectures, and events.

The newly imagined space for gatherings is a fitting tribute to Brother Seán, who passed away in 2022. He was a leader renowned for his unique ability to connect with others and unite the campus community. 

"Brother Sean was well known as a scholar, remarkable teacher, and outstanding leader, but most of all he was truly a man for all people and for all seasons," said Marist Trustee, Brother John Klein FMS '70. "He possessed the unique ability to make each person he met feel important and they left him a better person for knowing him."

"Brother Seán had a unique ability to connect with others and bring those on our campus together," said Ross Mauri, Chair of the Board of Trustees. "This name is fitting, not only in its celebration of an important figure in Marist’s history, but because the space will be utilized in manners that evoke Brother Sean’s spirit and the enduring values of Marist College."

The Marist Board of Trustees unanimously approved the renaming to Sammon House at their Feb. 3 meeting.

Rendering courtesy of John Milner Architects, Inc.

A facility for the enjoyment of all
Set alongside the scenic Fern Tor Nature Preserve, the new Sammon House’s surroundings will provide a tranquil and inspirational setting for the Marist community used as a space for connection, celebration, and thoughtful conversations across our entire community. 

President Weinman and future Marist presidents will open the doors to Sammon House for a variety of gatherings and conversations. The residence also gives the College President easy access to all that’s happening around campus, deepening engagement and support of our students, faculty, and staff.

The residence portion is expected to be fully funded by donor support and College assets. Restoration work is scheduled to be completed late in the fall semester of 2024. 

"While this facility is built for the generations, I know Kevin and Beth are particularly excited to live on campus and expand opportunities to be present and engaged with the Marist community, something they have become known for already in their early years here," said Mauri.

In 1997, the College purchased the building, which had most recently been a private residence, and renamed it St. Ann's in memory of the building that previously served the Marist Brothers for over 50 years.