Tribute to IND

ONE MIND. ONE HEART. Class of '21 IND transfer students pictured with IND Head of School, Ms. Christine Szala, at our Catholic High graduation.

A Tribute to IND

May of 2020 came as a shock for all of Baltimore when the 173-yearold high school announced that the Institute of Notre Dame was officially closing its doors on June 30, 2020.

Many students were left scrambling to find new schools for the following school year. In the Fall of 2020, Catholic High welcomed 25 students from IND with open arms — 15 of the students of whom were rising Seniors.

On our annual Hello Day, current Catholic High students welcomed the IND transfer students with baskets filled with goodies, just as if they were walking into our community as Freshmen. Seniors were given blue Senior Bows to represent their past and connect with their new home away from home.

At Catholic High's Junior Ring Liturgy, three Juniors from IND received the traditional IND class ring. Their faces filled with joy as they were able to have receive one last memento of their beloved school.

In a sit-down interview conducted for Catholic High's 5-year Strategic Plan, Senior IND transfer student, Carlene Phillander '21, shared how Catholic High's welcoming community helped her transition to a new school environment. As she reflected on Catholic High's Franciscan values, she shared, "I want students who come after me to experience the same amazing culture and friendships!"

The end of the school year was an emotional time for the IND Seniors, as they realized they would not be graduating from the school they chose their 8th grade year. Students learning in-person were able to wear their IND uniform on the final day of school for the very last time.

On May 25, 2020, fifteen students from the Institute of Notre Dame graduated from the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen as alumnae of The Catholic High School of Baltimore. During the Commencement Ceremony, Catholic High President, Dr. Nazelrod '68, asked all students, parents, family members, and friends with a connection to IND to stand to join in singing the IND Alma Mater. This came as a surprise for many. The kind gesture and tribute to the long-lasting history of the school brought tears to the congregation's eyes.

Catholic High looks forward to watching the remaining IND transfer students continue their high school journey as Cubs. But together, we are always "One Mind. One Heart."