"No work can be more productive or good to society than the careful education of women."
--Catherine McAuley

The Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community has a long and rich history in the ministry of education. Its roots are in Dublin, Ireland, in the ministry of Catherine McAuley, the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy and her co-workers. Sisters of Mercy, in partnership with lay co-ministers, carry on this tradition in schools and educational programs faithful to the Mercy charism, values and tradition. 

The Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community sponsors five all-girl secondary schools, co-sponsors a co-ed secondary school, and sponsors two educational centers. In addition, Sisters of Mercy and co-ministers serve in a variety of elementary educational settings, parish schools, (arch) diocesan offices and programs, adult programs and literacy programs. They also provide individualized programs for students in need and more. Mercy Housing, a sponsored work of the West Midwest community, also has a variety of educational programs within its housing sites. 

The Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas assumed sponsorship for Mercy colleges and universities in 2002. Each of the four associated with the West Midwest Community retains relationships, support and the presence of Sisters of Mercy and co-ministers in a variety of ministerial roles.