A Message from the Head of School remember many years ago, a much younger and greener version of myself, more than a little nervous, walking into The Protocol banquet facilities on Transit Road. I had just been appointed head of school, and I was attending a 50-year reunion to start to get to know some of the Academy’s alumnae. I walked in and before I had a chance to introduce myself, the SHA alumna working the reservation table kindly told me “The baby shower was across the hall.” I smiled on the outside, but on the inside, my imposter syndrome was telling me I had more business attending a shower for someone I didn’t know than I did leading a school. Just as this internal conversation was playing out, I experienced the first of many gracious moments of unwavering support, love and hospitality from a Sister of St. Francis. Sr. Paula Fox, also a guest at the reunion, swept in and introduced me to the alumna working the desk and many others in the room as the new head of school. Her graciousness, hospitality and generosity in her introductions helped to quiet the insecurity I was feeling in an instant and transform an awkward moment into a memory I treasure and cherish. Such is the presence of the Sisters of St. Francis. I am certain many of you hold your own personal, vivid memories of a Sister’s kindness, guidance, warmth, welcome, or brilliance that impacted your life for the better. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity’s arrival in the United States, I wish to express my profound gratitude for their leadership and legacy. From the first four Sisters who bravely left their home to come to do God’s work in a far-off land, to the Sisters who continue to support Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart in presence, prayer, and service, the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity’s unwavering dedication to education and the Franciscan values of compassion, humility, and service have shaped not only our Academy but also the lives of countless young women. The forward-thinking, balanced, challenging, faith-based educational environment the Sisters founded so many years ago is alive and well at SHA and continues through the principles reflected in our International Baccalaureate World School affiliation. Both frameworks emphasize a holistic approach to learning, fostering not just academic excellence but also development as a servant leader and global citizen. This alignment strengthens our commitment to graduating young women who are equipped to face the challenges of our world. Today, as we honor the Sisters, we also celebrate their upcoming Living the Spirit Award—a testament to their lifelong service and unwavering support for the Academy. Their guidance, good counsel, and steadfast prayers have illuminated our paths, reminding us of the power of community and faith. We also celebrate our other award recipients who reflect the Franciscan Charism and their own unique contributions to the Western New York community and beyond. As we reflect on contributions in our SHA community, I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to Eileen Scannell for her strong and joy-filled stewardship as president of the Board of Directors. Her leadership during our accreditation process to become an IB World School, the challenging COVID-19 years, and throughout our strategic planning process has been invaluable. She will be missed. We are fortunate to welcome Christine Licata ‘63, Vice Provost for Rochester Institute of Technology, as our incoming board president. Her depth of knowledge, experience, commitment, and enthusiasm will serve us well as the Academy continues to implement its vision statement inspired by our Sisters’ legacy to “empower young women through excellence in education.” Congratulations to the Sisters on this remarkable milestone. Thank you for your leadership, dedication, friendship, and the profound influence you have had on our lives. Together, let us continue to honor your legacy and leadership as we dedicate this edition to the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity and their 150 years of ministry in the United States. With heartfelt gratitude, 2 CORDECHO SPIRIT. MIND. BODY. ONTHECOVER Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart’s Feast of St. Francis celebration is one of our most beloved traditions. Each year, on October 4, Mass is celebrated with the full school community including the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity and their Franciscan Associates. After Mass, SHA students give each Sister and Associate a rose as a token of appreciation. The Sisters then sing their special blessing over the students and faculty. SPIRIT. MIND. BODY.
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