Gloria DeGaetano, founder and CEO of the Parent Coaching Institute (PCI), has been awarded a one-month writers' residency by the Benedictine Sisters of Erie, Pennsylvania. The residency, which emphasizes themes of justice and compassion, is part of the sisters' commitment to supporting writers and aligns with the advocacy work of Sister Joan Chittister, a prominent voice for justice, peace, and equality.
DeGaetano expressed surprise and honor at the selection. "I was thrilled and a little bit in shock," she said. "I'm working on a book about technology and families that has a different slant from my previous books. When I read about the competition, I decided to send in a proposal. I have the utmost respect and admiration for Sister Joan. She is one of the most influential religious and social leaders of our time. It is truly an honor to be selected."
The residency includes room and board at the Benedictine monastery, providing a secluded environment surrounded by nature. DeGaetano chose March 2026 for her stay. "I am looking forward to this type of disruption," she added. "It's a good disruption of 30 days away from the PCI office, even my home, to concentrate on my next book. On good days I can write 1,000-2,000 words. My goal is to write a majority of the first draft of the book while there. If all works as I am hoping it will, I should have between 30,000 and 50,000 words—hopefully most of them useful."
The Benedictine Sisters of Erie trace their origins to St. Walburg Abbey in Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1035. Sisters first came to St. Mary's, Pennsylvania, in 1852 to educate children of German immigrants. Their ministries include the Inner City Neighborhood Art House, which provides arts classes to at-risk children; Benetwood Apartments for low-income elderly and handicapped persons; and Monasteries of the Heart, an online community. The writers' residency is one of many initiatives supporting social justice.
The Parent Coaching Institute, founded in 2000, is recognized as an innovative leader for parent coach training. Its year-long Parent Coach Certification® program, offered in affiliation with Southern New Hampshire University, enrolls family support experts through an application process. Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Spring Term, with a $500 tuition discount for applications received before Dec. 31, 2025. The application deadline is Feb. 1, 2026.
