Last modified: 1/25/2016 6:02:06 PM
At age 17, Joan “Joni” O’Donnell joined the Sisters of Mercy convent in Manchester, but something wasn’t quite right. It was a feeling she’d continue to experience even after leaving for a short time and returning to her vows for another 13 years. Today, the Jaffrey resident continues her journey with the order as an associate, having long since found her niche working with youth in the ConVal School District. “I’m passionate about young people. I think they are God’s greatest gift,” said O’Donnell, 73, who is now retired from teaching. “I have always been on the receiving end with kids.”