A Message from the Head of School isterhood is a term we often use here at Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart. New students are invited to the SHA Sisterhood, and our commencement speakers often refer to the bond of sisterhood in their remarks. Sisterhood has become a stand in for lifelong friendships, a support network that is there when needed most, and an atmosphere of collaboration and camaraderie that is signature to SHA. Interestingly, buildings designed by the same architect are sometimes referred to as “sister buildings.” The concept is that they come into existence from the same creator and often bear many similar characteristics. Like SHA’s main campus at 3860 Main Street, our new building (learn more about this purchase on pages 12-13 of this issue) was designed by prolific and renowned Buffalo architect, Duane Lyman. Therefore, it is fitting that we will refer to our new building as SHA’s “sister building.” At the core of a sisterhood is girl-centeredness, which factors prominently in our strategic plan. From how to attract ambitious young women, to a curriculum that is uniquely girl-focused, to athletic and performance spaces that support the whole young woman, to a wellness plan that strengthens each young woman on her journey to adulthood, sisterhood is a theme that runs through nearly every goal and objective in our strategic plan. I hope you enjoy learning more about our 2023-2028 strategic plan in this issue. I think of our SHA Sisterhood as our own take on St. Francis’ fraternitas - a way of being at peace and in community with his brothers and the world. Inspired by Francis, we experience the beautiful example of the Sisters of St. Francis living in peace and harmony with one another and our world. Pope Francis has expanded the concept of fraternitas to one of family. While we often reference our sisterhood, Sacred Heart Academy is, in fact, a family, and this issue also recognizes some of the strategic planning team members who are fathers of SHA students and alumnae. We are grateful for their contributions and that of many other men who have dedicated themselves to SHA over the years. Finally, this summer we have had four legendary Sacred Heart men leave this earth. In gratitude for their contributions to SHA, we acknowledge each of them and their lives well lived. First, we remember Michael Sullivan, husband of Kathy Laurich Sullivan ’83 and father of Abigail Sullivan Vallone ’14. Michael contributed his expertise in facilities to SHA for decades and most recently served as the co-chair of our Facilities Domain in strategic planning. Michael ministered to the Diocese of Buffalo for 38 years overseeing the upkeep of a myriad of Diocesan properties. His presence and warmth will be missed throughout the WNY community. We also remember Bob Freeland, beloved husband to the late Mary Deane Freeland (beloved former SHA religion teacher), who upon Mary’s untimely death, set up a scholarship and a garden on campus to keep her beautiful spirit deeply embedded in the SHA community. Bob, an artist, educator and advocate, had been involved with Sacred Heart for decades. It is appropriate that Bob be remembered in this issue where we introduce our new strategic plan as he was a member of our first formal strategic planning team back in the 1990s. George Wopperer, husband to the late and great Jackie Shea Wopperer ’52, father to four SHA alumnae and grandfather to three more SHA graduates, entered into eternal rest this summer. George was a constant at the trifecta of SHA events: the Christus Super Omnia (CSO) Scholarship and Awards Dinner (Jackie was named a distinguished alumna in 2003); Sandstone; and the Sr. Maria Pares Golf Tournament. George was always the life of the party. We will be sure to raise a glass to you, George, at our upcoming CSO Dinner this fall. Finally, Dr. Bryan Krull, a beloved social studies teacher, passed away suddenly while on vacation in Colombia with his family. Bryan has been a vital part of our school family since 2013. His passion for teaching and commitment to excellence has left an indelible impact on the lives of countless young scholars. Page 3 contains a sample of the tributes that poured in for Bryan who demonstrated for each of us that life is to be embraced and lived to the fullest. Thank you, Michael, Bob, George and Bryan, for being integral members of the SHA family. Rest in peace, gentlemen. 2 CORDECHO SPIRIT. MIND. BODY. ONTHECOVER This edition of the Cordecho magazine brings big news of the expansion to Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart’s campus. The acquisition of the former Eggertsville Hose building at 3826 Main Street brings lots of opportunity and some very familiar architectural features. Can you identify which of the cover images were taken at our original campus and which were taken at the new property? Check your answers and learn more about our expansion on pages 12-13. SPIRIT. MIND. BODY.
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