Sister Martina Hughes was the renowned head of the College's music department from 1931 to 1954, when she then became Mother Martina Hughes, serving as prioress from 1954 to 1958 and 1966 to 1972. During her first term, as both prioress of the Monastery and president of the College, she decided to separate the positions because she believed that each deserved full-time attention. (Her second term as prioress was distinguished by her navigation through the after-effects of Vatican II.) A distinguished musician and composer, she created a rich tradition of music that served as the foundation for the musical diversity students now experience on campus.