Sister Ruth Ellen James was a Fairview High School graduate who joined the Catholic Church at age 22. She was a former licensed practical nurse at OLBH and a member of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor. When one thinks of Sister Ruth Ellen, there are just a few, but very powerful words that come to mind. Humble. Simple. Quiet presence. She always accepted people as they were and that acceptance worked miracles. To continue her legacy, the endowment was created as part of the Franciscan Fellows program to assist with women’s health issues in the community with a particular focus on cancer-related needs.