Letter from the President

Dear Parents, Alumni, and Friends of the Academy,

I am honored to present Light the Way 2023-2028, the next Strategic Plan for the Academy of the Holy Names. Our vision for the near and long-term future has been prayerfully and thoughtfully contemplated. The result is a five-year plan that preserves and builds on our legacy of excellence in education and our distinctive SNJM Catholic mission, while also presenting a comprehensive and bold vision for a future filled with great opportunity and promise.

This 12-month endeavor was led by board chair Mrs. Daphne McConnie, trustee Mrs. Paola Schifino, and me, along with the Strategic Planning Steering Committee comprised of SNJM sisters, trustees, administrators, parents, and alumni. Through much research and dialogue—and the leadership, wisdom, and creativity of so many within our AHN community—we have moved significantly forward in identifying the goals and objectives included in the plan that will best meet the needs of our students and school community today and in the future.

The name of the plan, Light the Way, is much more than a title; it is symbolic of the major themes woven throughout the plan. Blessed Marie Rose, a woman whose heart was on fire with God’s love, inspires us all to walk in the light of our Catholic faith, which anchors many of the goals and objectives listed herein. As a faith community, we are called to be a light for others, where the themes of service, partnership, growth, and the development and support for our students and teachers also prevail. Simply, the plan invites a joyful hope for the future as our community unites in solidarity of purpose and direction, lighting the way as we confidently explore opportunities to enhance the student experience and place our mission at the forefront of all we do.

The Academy of the Holy Names continues to be blessed by so many who give generously of themselves for the betterment of our community. It is my sincere hope that as you read Light the Way, you will identify areas where you might partner with us to help achieve each objective. Some initiatives are big, and some are small, but all will equally impact the education, formation, and experience of all our students.

As our faculty, staff, and administration work over the next five years to implement the plan, let us continue to pray for one another and all those within our AHN community whose efforts enable the Academy’s light to shine brighter than ever, for today’s students and the many generations to follow.

With gratitude, holynamestpa.org/light-the-way

Kevin P. Whitney President