Why We Give

THE McCRORY FAMILY

Lena Cabrera McCrory ’03 attended the Academy from grades 4-12, and she recalls her years at AHN as some of the most special and memorable of her life. From lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences, Lena remembers her time at the Academy with fondness and joy. Now, she and her husband, Dylan — an ’03 Jesuit graduate — are fortunate to have their five-year-old son, Davis, in pre-K at the same school she holds so near and dear to her heart. As an alumna and parents to Davis and two-year-old Rhett with a daughter on the way, Lena and Dylan prioritize giving back to the community and the school they love best.

What do you like best about being part of the Academy family?

The Academy family is such a wonderful community. These halls hold a special place in my heart, and it still feels like home when my husband and I walk them. From former teachers greeting me to reminiscing over fond moments, the Academy will always feel like family to me, and now, to our son Davis.

AHN also provides us with many ways to be engaged, both as parents and members of the larger community. As parents, we appreciate our many opportunities to admire our child’s growth and his teachers’ efforts. As part of the Academy community, we can volunteer and participate in various organizations led by parents just like us, right here on campus. The feeling of family is evident the moment you step on campus.

What’s your favorite Academy tradition?

The Academy does a wonderful job upholding many of its traditions. One of my favorite traditions is the 1st graders giving roses to the seniors during the high school graduation. As we eagerly await the arrival of our daughter, I look forward to seeing my daughter continue this beautiful tradition as an Academy Jaguar and future alumna.

Why is giving back important to your family?

There are many reasons giving back is important to our family. We are blessed and fortunate to be able to give to others. Giving back to those in need helps us strengthen our bonds in the community, both within the Academy walls and beyond. We want to instill this culture of giving in our children to help them be empathetic members of society and create their own sense of purpose.

What motivates you to give back to AHN?

The Academy has given me so much throughout my life, and it is an honor to support the institution that molded me into the person I am today. Our gifts to the Academy impact not only our children but future generations, who will benefit from the wonderful things the Academy offers. We are a part of something bigger when we support the Academy. The Academy molds and shapes children to be leaders in the community. There is no limit to where our children can go, and it’s an honor to be able to support that.

What would you say to someone who feels their gift may be too small to make an impact?

There is no such thing as a gift that is too small! Every dollar makes a difference in a student’s life at the Academy. I began giving as an alumna with great pride, and now, Dylan and I are blessed to be able to give back by supporting the Parents Annual Giving campaign. These gifts can support the financial aid awards for students and even something as small as purchasing a class book; both play an instrumental role. As the parent of a pre-K student learning to read, the value of a book is unparalleled. Every gift makes a tremendous impact, and seeing our dollars in action at the Academy gives us great joy.

... for God loves a cheerful giver and God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

- 2 Corinthians 9: 6-8

Please consider making your gift to the Academy of the Holy Names today! You may return the enclosed envelope, give online at holynamestpa.org/give, send through Venmo @holynamestpa, or use the QR code for quick access to our giving form. To make a gift of stock, please contact Director of Annual Fund Gigi Cooper ’01 at GCooper@holynamestpa.org or 813-839-5371, ext. 226.

I will be forever grateful for all of you and the gifts you have given this school.