Sister Laura Lampe, known in her earlier days at Alverno College as Sister M. Laudesia, was a true inspiration and patron of the arts. She joined the Alverno College of Music faculty in 1941 as a voice instructor. During her tenure at Alverno, she founded and conducted the Alverno College Chorus, the Society Singers, and the Alverno College Madrigal Singers. Her singing groups performed locally, nationally and internationally.
Sister Laura with others also founded Alverno’s Society of Fine Arts (S.O.F.A.), later known as Alverno Presents. The fine arts group was formed in 1960 as a vehicle for bringing quality fine arts programming to a smaller Milwaukee venue and was in existence for more than 50 years before closing its doors in April 2016.
Sister Laura Lampe contributed to Alverno College’s fine arts program and the fine arts community at large for 55 years from 1941-1996 and her contributions were immeasurable. To honor her legacy, the Alphonsa Hall recital hall was renamed the Lampe Recital Hall.
Sister Laura Lampe (July 12, 1899 - December 11, 1996)
"Sister Laura Lampe, S.S.S.F. Fine Arts Coordinator 1960-1990. Founder of The Society of Fine Arts, The Madrigal Singers, Alverno Chorus, Society Singers, and The Parent Association at Alverno College. Accomplished Concert Presenter, Music Educator, and Conductor. An Inspiration and Dear Friend to Us All. Presented by Society of Fine Arts, May 21, 1993."