Who we are
The Peace Circle is a nonprofit organization created to honor and continue the legacy of Sr. Beth Dowd—musician, mentor, and visionary.
For over 40 years, Sr. Beth’s summer camp welcomed children into a world where music, kindness, and community were not just taught, but lived. With every morning prayer, choral rehearsal, shared meal, and nightly circle of reflection, she cultivated something rare and sacred: a place where young people could grow in voice, in character, and in belonging.
After Sr. Beth’s passing, her former campers, staff, and family—many now adults raising children of their own—came together to protect and preserve the spirit of her mission. The Peace Circle was born out of deep conviction: that the values she lived are more needed than ever.
Our programs carry forward the traditions she began, with music at the center and peace as the purpose. We believe that every child has a voice, every voice has power, and every song shared brings us one step closer to harmony.
We have a song to sing—and we invite you to join us.
Our Founding Spirit
Sr. Beth Dowd, OSU
Founder, Musician, Mentor, Visionary
Sister Beth Dowd, O.S.U. (1934–2020), was a dedicated music educator and Ursuline Sister whose life's work was rooted in the belief that peace is attainable and that every individual deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of music. Born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, she pursued her education at the College of New Rochelle and later earned two master's degrees in music and education from The Catholic University of America. In 1956, she entered the Ursuline novitiate and professed her vows in 1959. Her teaching career spanned various locations, including Bethesda, Maryland; Springfield, Massachusetts; and the Bronx, New York. In 1976, she began teaching music at Blessed Sacrament Elementary School, where she initiated a school choir that eventually evolved into a longstanding annual summer Choir Camp, continuing for over forty-five years.
Building upon her passion for music and education, Sister Beth founded an after school music program in 1994, a nonprofit organization dedicated to "Reaching for Peace Through Music." Under her leadership, the program developed a range of programs, including Choir Camp, after-school music instruction, early childhood music classes, and mentorship training, serving the New Rochelle and Southern Westchester communities. Her commitment to making music accessible to all, regardless of financial means, led to the organization providing musical instruction to over 6,000 young people.
Sister Beth's impact extended beyond her teaching; she remains a beloved figure who inspired many of her students to pursue careers in music, education, and service-oriented fields. Her dedication was recognized through numerous awards, including the Community Service Award from Arts Westchester, the Woman of Excellence Award from the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, and the National Guild for Community Arts Education's Milestone Award. Sister Beth Dowd passed away on December 11, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, peace, education, and a belief in the transformative power of music.
A Promise Renewed
In 1993, when Sr. Beth no longer had a school choir to rely on, the campers and counselors of Choir Camp sign their commitment to ensuring the legacy of camp continues . . . under the watch of Sr. Beth’s favorite: Kermit!
“To remember in this moment of friendship, love, and joy
That music made together may one day heal mankind.””