Sr. Madeline LeCompte, OSBS was named St. Joseph’s Indian School’s First Distinguished Alumna in May 2006.

Alumna Sr. Madeleine LeCompte and Fr. Stephen

The award recognizes former students who have contributed to their community or culture by participating in activities that have a positive impact on the well-being of others. Nominations were made by St. Joseph’s staff and other alumni.

Sr. Madeleine attended St. Joseph’s Indian School from 1929-1937 along with her siblings. Sr. Madeline graduated eighth grade in 1938. She finished high school at St. Francis Mission School in May 1941 and entered the Oblate Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Sylvester’s Convent in Marty, South Dakota.

In a 2006 interview, Sr. Madeleine recalled St. Joseph’s fondly:

“St. Joseph’s provided for all our needs. The sisters encouraged each of us to use the talents we were given. I was good at music, and I remember helping the sisters teach songs to the entire group of students. I’m very grateful for those years.”

She served in Marty, Rapid City and on the Cheyenne River Reservation in South Dakota. She also served four terms on St. Joseph’s Board of Directors, from May 1997 to January 2009. Sr. Madeline passed away in December 2012.