A graduate of Xavier University (New Orleans, LA) and a native of New Orleans. Mother Mary of Good Counsel was elected the thirteenth Superior General at a time of great changes, in the late 60s when Vatican II began to have an impact upon religious life, dress and Constitutions.

Mother Baptiste's background as a dedicated principal of St. Frances Academy for 25 years served her well for her appointment as President of Mount Providence Junior College. In 1963, she reached out to inner city women, won a charter for the two-year institution and led the congregation into higher education; the better to serve the underprivileged with dignity and dedication.

During her leadership, the Community reached an all-time high of nearly forty missions in the United States and Costa Rica. Mother is also remembered for her unique talent of fund-raising. Unceasingly, she motivated the Sisters to clear the debt on the new Motherhouse by their contributions of time, effort and personal donations. She gave the example.

In her last year it took tremendous courage for Mother to get up each morning. She put in hours each day stitching apron after apron (for sale in fund-raising) in spite of poor eyesight and a weakened heart. She never faltered, never stopped. Mother was willing to undergo risky laser surgery in the hope of improving sight in an eye that was legally blind. She wanted to be as useful as possible until the end. This was Mother Mary of Good Counsel - simple, straightforward, total in her offering.