Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 8: Keeping in mind the purpose behind the establishment of St Ann’s College of Education in 1943, explicitly, to provide professional and job oriented educational training to women, with Mother Josephine as the superior general, the college annually organises an annual Mother Josephine lecture by eminent scholars/educationalists pertaining to issues of education, status of women and several others. On this occasion, the Alumnae Association ignites success by connecting alumni with each other, supporting student success, and advocating it with credible and collaborative accomplishments.
The Mother Josephine memorial lecture 2026 was held on June 6 in the college conference hall. Neeraja Ganesh, leadership trainer, mindset coach delivered the lecture on the topic ‘Before you say no to yourself’- The mindset shifts that help women recognize and overcome self-imposed limits.

The incredible speaker Neeraja Ganesh, delivered a powerful talk on overcoming self-imposed barriers and navigating career growth intentionally. Sharing her personal journey as an only child alongside the success stories of trailblazing leaders like Falguni Nayar (Founder & CEO of Nykaa), Neeraja shared an invaluable wisdom on how to truly own our professional paths.
Here are the core insights from her talk:
Dare to Dream
Don't Leave Before You Leave
Speak Up & Build Career Clarity
The Most Critical Career Choice
Live Guilt-Free
Neeraja beautifully concluded her talk with a powerful reminder: Let go, move forward, and live without regret.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, the institution proudly felicitated former alumna Vilma Lobo, graduate assistant, Ladyhill Composite College, Mangaluru for being recently bestowed with the prestigious best teacher award of Dakshina Kannada District. This recognition highlights her exceptional contribution to the field of education, her innovative teaching methodologies, and her unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.
Dr Sr Dorothy D’Souza AC, the president of Alumnae Association welcomed and introduced the chief guest. Sharil D’Silva, alumna, anchored the programme. The occasion was synchronized by Dr Laveena D’Sa, assistant professor and secretary of Alumnae Association rendered vote of thanks.
As the main event drew to an elegant close, the annual general meeting commenced. Attendees reviewed past minutes, recent activity reports were read, and approved the budget statement, while also brainstorming future initiatives and reflecting on the day's lecture. Transitioning from the lecture to bonding, Saimeen, an alumna led a series of delightful games. With over 150 attendees’ and Sr Marie Evelyn AC, joint secretary, St Ann’s Convent and superior, St Ann’s Institutions, former faculty and ex-officio of Alumnae Association, the day stood as a testament to the lasting bonds nurtured at St Ann’s College of Education.