3rd Annual St. Vincent's 1845 Foundation Nun Run 5K, Presented by Oliver Maner, Supports Historic Preservation

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Wednesday, February 19th, 2025

St. Vincent’s 1845 Foundation, in partnership with Oliver Maner, LLP, one of Savannah’s oldest law firms, proudly presents the 3rd Annual St. Vincent’s Academy Nun Run. This fun-filled 5K will kick off Women's History Month on Saturday, March 1st, at 8:00 a.m. winding through the majestic oaks of Daffin Park in Midtown Savannah. 

 Join us as we celebrate the legacy and contributions of the Sisters of Mercy and support the ongoing preservation and restoration of the historic 1845 Convent of St. Vincent de Paul, located on the St. Vincent's Academy campus. Marked on the National Register of Historic Places, the Convent of St. Vincent de Paul is one of Savannah's most historic and notable structures situated adjacent to the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. 

Oliver Maner is the Title Sponsor of the Nun Run for the third consecutive year. Partners Robert Schivera and George Major Jr. have once again demonstrated their personal commitment to the cause through individual gifts. "Oliver Maner is honored to continue our support of the Nun Run and contribute to the preservation of this iconic Savannah landmark," said Robert Schivera, a partner at Oliver Maner. "The 1845 Convent holds a special place in our city's history, and this event allows us to celebrate its legacy while supporting the continued education of young women."

Established in 1845 by the Sisters of Mercy, the convent served as a home and hub of activity for generations of Sisters. They played a pivotal role in establishing parochial schools throughout Georgia, staffing local institutions like Cathedral Day School, Nativity, and Blessed Sacrament Schools. Their contributions extended to healthcare, with the Sisters nursing wounded Civil War soldiers, staffing Forest City Marine Hospital, and founding St. Joseph's Hospital (now St. Joseph's/Candler) and St. Mary's Orphanage.

"We are delighted to partner once again with Oliver Maner to bring the Nun Run to life," said Sally Welsh, 1845 Foundation Board Chair. "This event is a joyous celebration of our heritage and a vital source of support for the preservation of this irreplaceable treasure. We invite the entire community to join us for a morning of fun, fitness, and philanthropy."

The Nun Run welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Participants are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the event by donning their most creative nun's habits, with prizes awarded for the best costumes. Registration is $40 and includes a unique Nun Run medallion and t-shirt designed by St. Vincent’s Academy and Savannah College of Art and Design alumna Jordan "Jay" Young. Individual placements will be awarded in this timed race. Race day registration is available. 

The 1845 Foundation expresses its sincere gratitude to all sponsors, including Title Sponsor Oliver Maner LLP and supporting sponsors Hancock Askew & Co. LLP, Maureen O'Connor Simmons/ReMax Savannah, John S. James Co., Southeastern Bank, Weiner Shearouse Weitz Greenberg + Shaw, NAI/Mopper Benton, Moon River Hypnosis, Sally Welsh, Savannah Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Jones Red and White, Driftwood Chiropractic, and Clean Eatz.

The Nun Run is expertly managed by seasoned race promoter Dan Pavlin of Endurance Race Services (ERS). For more information or to register for the Nun Run 5K, visit savannahraces.com or contact Diane Ciucevich Parker at 912-398-4906 or [email protected]. Follow on social media @TheNunRun and share your race day photos using #thenunrun.