Is a distant relative of director Jack Gattanella on his father's mother's side.
Was the inspiration for the character of Sister James (played by Amy Adams)in the film Doubt (2008). While working at St. Anthony's School in the Bronx, New York, USA, she was a teacher for the play's/film's screenwriter and director John Patrick Shanley.
Principal of St. Barnabas High School in the Bronx for 8 years (1989-1997).
Entered the Sisters of Charity of New York at Mount Saint Vincent-on-Hudson, September 8, 1953, and received the religious name of Sister Marita James.