In Memoriam

Ann J. Panlener

Ann J. Panlener, Alpha Sigma Nu Executive Director from 1987-2004, died April 18, 2017 at the age of 90.   Ann earned her B.A. from Benedictine College and her M.A. in journalism from Marquette University.  Anyone familiar with the history of Alpha Sigma Nu will immediately recognize the names of Ann and her husband Richard Panlener who served as the first and second Executive Directors of the Jesuit Honor Society.  Both served Alpha Sigma Nu with great distinction.  Their tireless effort on behalf of our Society became the foundation and cornerstone of our present strength. “Without Ann Panlener and her husband, Dick, ASN as an organization might not exist,” states Peg Fennig, ASN Executive Director Emeritus.  “When they began their work, the Honor Society had little central organization - -some typewritten lists, a constitution and by laws and little else. With painstaking effort, they organized, networked, and developed the framework for the Society that would help it endure and thrive.” Ann led ASN’s 75th Anniversary celebration as well as three Triennial Conferences.  It was during Ann’s tenure that the Alpha Sigma Nu Chapter scholarships were founded and ASN’s first database and member directory were created. “At the Central Office, we staff often remark with thanks on Ann’s organizational and structural skills and legacy.  We are in her debt,” reflects Kate Gaertner, ASN’s current Executive Director.    

Ann is survived by nine children, 27 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren.