Press Room Archives

November 2022

AHA Middle School Releases Q1 Dean’s List & Honor Roll

Demarest, NJ: Traci Koval, dean of the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School, congratulated multiple students who achieved Dean’s List and Honor Roll status for maintaining excellent grade point averages through the first quarter of the 2022-23 academic year.  Read more»

Holy Angels Students Complete First Quarter with Honors 

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels recently honored multiple upper school students who achieved excellent grade point averages during the first quarter of the 2022-23 academic year. Angels are named to the Principal’s List for maintaining a GPA of 95 or higher, or receive Honor Roll recognition for posting an average of 90 through 94. Read more»

Five Teens Chosen to Represent Holy Angels at HOBY Conference

Demarest, NJ: A select group of Holy Angels sophomores will represent the Academy at the 2023 Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar. AHA’s delegates are Cara Boyce of Old Tappan; Margaret “Molly” Doherty of New City, New York; Isabella Kim of Cresskill; Xenaya Medina of Clifton; and Gina Certo of Wyckoff (alternate). Read more»

Giving Thanks: AHA Teens Carry on S. Catherine’s Legacy of Kindness 

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels students Camila Reynoso, Taylor Glynn, Trinity Savage, and Breanna Hetzer have received the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award in appreciation of their inspirational attitudes. These teens, who were honored during the November 21 Thanksgiving Prayer Service, exemplify the kindness for which S. Catherine was known. Read more»

AHA Senior Is Harvard BOLD Ambassador; Eleven Angels Were Guests

Demarest, NJ: Several aspiring business leaders from the Academy of the Holy Angels spent the weekend of November 12 and 13 at the Harvard Undergraduate Women in Business BOLD Conference. BOLD, or Business Oriented Leadership Development, is an annual, two-day event where high school women explore the business world and sharpen their organizational and communication skills. This expo of business opportunities includes panels and workshops with women leaders and entrepreneurs. Read more»

AHA Donates 65 Turkeys to Community FoodBank of NJ

Demarest, NJ: Students and staff from the Academy of the Holy Angels actively respond to the School Sisters of Notre Dame call to serve others. As Thanksgiving approached, the Academy collaborated to donate dozens of frozen turkeys to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey in Hillside. Read more»

Rho Kappa Welcomes 52 Angels, Top Tally in AHA Chapter’s History 

Demarest, NJ: The Alice Paul Chapter of Rho Kappa reached a high water mark on November 15, as the Academy of the Holy Angels inducted 52 outstanding social studies students, the top number of inductees in chapter history.  Read more»

Future Angels Enjoy Classes & Camaraderie at Showcase Day   

Demarest, NJ: Future Holy Angels students from near and far enjoyed upper school classes and camaraderie during Angel Showcase Day (November 10, 2022). The AHA Admissions Team organized the full-day event so incoming ninth graders could explore their interests with current upper school students, meet faculty members, and develop new friendships.  Read more»

Angels for Veterans Fundraiser Will Help Train Service Dogs

Demarest, NJ: In honor of Veterans Day 2022, the Academy of the Holy Angels raised over $2,500 to help bring a trained service dog to a military veteran. This timely event was hosted November 9 by AHA Upper School’s Angels for Veterans organization and the students at AHA Middle School. Students, faculty, and staff (50 in all) received donations for completing laps around the Academy’s track. Funds benefit American Humane’s Pups4Patriots™.  Read more»

Angels to Sing at Carnegie Hall; One Will Also Appear in Sydney

Demarest, NJ: Three outstanding vocalists from the Academy of the Holy Angels have been named to the 2023 Carnegie Hall Honors Performance Series. AHA’s nominees are Caroline Ko of Hoboken, Victoria Velasco of Woodcliff Lake, and Isabella Wisniewski of Paramus. Read more»

AHA Facilities Manager Bob Shanney to Retire; Luis Mendoza Will Be Successor

Demarest, NJ: Facilities Manager Robert Shanney, who has been keeping the Academy of the Holy Angels campus safe and clean since 1973, will be retiring at the end of the 2022-23 academic year. This month, following an extensive search and interview process, current AHA Maintenance Department Supervisor Luis Mendoza-Milian was officially named Shanney’s successor. In early November, Shanney and Mendoza began working side-by-side to ensure all of Shanney’s institutional knowledge is passed on to Mendoza. Read more»

Connect with Holy Angels During ‘Discover Catholic Schools Week’

Demarest, NJ: Connect with the Academy of the Holy Angels as the National Catholic Educational Association (ncea.com) hosts Discover Catholic Schools Week: November 13-19, 2022. Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, Holy Angels is Bergen County, New Jersey’s oldest private all-girl school. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many backgrounds. A high percentage of Angels earn acceptance into their first-choice colleges and universities. As a class, AHA seniors receive millions of dollars in scholarships to fund their undergraduate studies. Read more»

September 2022

AHA Golf & Tennis Outing: A Celebration of Athletes and Angels

Demarest, NJ: Eighty-eight sportspersons and 165 dinner guests attended the inaugural Academy of the Holy Angels Golf & Tennis Outing on September 26. The autumn day was so spectacular that even a passing sprinkle brought a rainbow to those gathered at the Hackensack Golf Club in Oradell. The AHA Parents’ Athletic Association hosted an activity-packed day that concluded with AHA Athletic Hall of Fame inductions for softball/basketball star Dawn Pikarsky Gillies (AHA ‘92) and lacrosse standout Melanie Welch (AHA ’17).  Read more»

AHA Varsity Tennis Players Prove They Are Champions in Any Bracket

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels Varsity Tennis Team closed out the month of September by winning the Bergen County Championship and accomplishing a clean sweep of the singles and doubles titles.  Read more»

AHA’s Celine Hong Is National Merit® Semifinalist; 23 More Earn Honors

Demarest, NJ: Celine Hong, a senior at the Academy of the Holy Angels, has qualified as a 2023 National Merit® Scholarship Program Semifinalist based on her excellent performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test. Read more»

Vocal Workshop Cements Teen’s Interest in Opera as a Career

Demarest, NJ: Vocalist Ellie Sawyer of Weehawken recently made an exciting decision. She completed Westminster Choir College’s Solo Vocal Artist Program with a strengthened determination to pursue a career in classical performance.  Read more»

AHA Violinist Performs in Hawaii, Earns Lead Role in NY Youth Symphony

Demarest, NJ: Faith Youn’s expert musicianship and abiding love for playing her violin regularly earn her invitations to perform in thrilling venues. This summer, she traveled to Hawaii to take part in the Pacific Music Institute run by the Hawaii Youth Symphony and National Orchestral Institute + Festival. Read more»

AHA’s Environmental Science Class Saves Mini-ecosystem 

Demarest, NJ:  At first glance, it looked like something that should be scrubbed from the handrail on the walkway to the school gym, but Patricia Prucnel and her students saw much more. The Academy of the Holy Angels’ environmental science teacher and her class recognized the greenish gray growth as a form of lichen known as British Soldier. Read more»

Interim Dean, New Leaders & Faculty Aboard as AHA Starts New Year

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels began the 2022-23 academic year with a new interim dean, four new department chairs, and several incoming faculty members. New this year are AHA Interim Dean of Students Jessica Hogan; English teachers Betsy Barbour and Maria Zaorski; French teacher Leila Ben Kilani; religious studies teacher George Maize; track coach Darcy Ottomanelli (AHA ’17); and music teacher Brian Kirk. Returning faculty members include religious studies teacher Sarah Allen and English teacher Bridget Ryan. Read more»

Largest Dance Team in AHA’s History Earns National & International Honors

Demarest, NJ: Jenny Sweet, head coach of the Academy of the Holy Angels’ acclaimed dance team, is preparing for the new season with energy, optimism, and 41 members. This is the Academy’s largest team since the dance program was organized 12 years ago with Sweet at the helm. Her first team had just 14 dancers. Read more»

Summer 2022

AHA’s Model UN Delegates Excel in Harvard China Competition 

Demarest, NJ: Delegates from the Academy of the Holy Angels convened with competitors from around the world at the 12th Harvard China Model United Nations Conference. By the end of the four-day Zoom event held August 17-21, AHA’s trio had turned in three notable performances and garnered two medals. Read more»

Holy Angels Expresses Appreciation for Retiring Faculty Members

Demarest, NJ: The 2021-22 academic year ended with a fond sendoff for five Holy Angels faculty members, including three department heads, who opted to leave their full-time posts. AHA Religious Studies Department Chair Carol Fay, AHA World Language Department Chair Samira Mady, AHA English Department Chair Nancy Schneberger, basketball/softball coach Susan Liddy, and long-time French and Spanish teacher Marisel LeGoff were honored at a staff luncheon held at Bacari Grill. Read more»

AHA Middle School Hosts Commencement for First Graduates

Demarest, NJ: The inaugural eighth grade class from the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School celebrated their commencement in a sea of pale blue caps and gowns. The June 10, 2022, baccalaureate Mass and graduation were held at Saint Therese of Lisieux Church in Cresskill with Father Samuel Citero, O. Carm, presiding. Read more»

Danahy Receives 2022 Angel Award as AHA Athletes Earn Honors 

Demarest, NJ: Varsity lacrosse and basketball player Emily Danahy of Oradell received the Academy of the Holy Angels’ prestigious Angel Award in recognition of her exceptional spirit, dedication, and leadership. Danahy was one of six 2022 AHA graduates who were honored at the June 13 Parents’ Athletic Association Spring Sports Awards Dinner at Seasons in Washington Township. Read more»

Bergen Teens Receive AHA’s Kindness Award

Demarest, NJ: Burdens seem lighter when friends listen with care and share their warmth and wit. For these reasons, and many more, Reilly Guy of Fair Lawn, Emma Spadora of Ridgewood, and Milena Hiza of Franklin Lakes received the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award from the Academy of the Holy Angels. Recipients of this award reflect the inspirational kindness displayed by S. Catherine, SSND, a beloved member of the AHA Religious Studies Department from 1982 to 2014. Read more»

AHA Grads Ella Cho, Nicole Romano Sign with Collegiate Dance Teams

Demarest, NJ: Two of the Academy of the Holy Angels’ newest alumnae have committed to continue their dance careers at the college level. Ella Cho of Alpine signed with the Villanova Dance Team, and Nicole Romano of Old Tappan signed with the Penn State Dance Team. AHA Head Dance Coach Jenny Sweet organized a ceremony for both Angels on June 8. Read more»

Holy Angels Honors Academy’s 142nd Graduating Class 

Demarest, NJ: On June 3, 104 esteemed members of the Class of 2022 turned the tassels on their caps from left to right, signifying their graduation from the Academy of the Holy Angels. The Academy’s 142nd graduating class assembled for the last time at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. The Baccalaureate Mass was celebrated by The Most Reverend Michael A. Saporito, Titular Bishop of Luperciana and Auxiliary Bishop of Newark - Episcopal Vicar for Bergen County, with assistance from Deacon John L. Sylvester. Read more»

Chloe Ibrahim Wins Rising Star Award for Student Direction of AHA Musical

Demarest, NJ: The past few days have been packed with excitement for Chloe Ibrahim. On June 6, just three days after her graduation from the Academy of the Holy Angels, this Blauvelt, New York, resident received a Rising Star Award from the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey. She was recognized for outstanding student achievement for her role as student director of Holy Angels’ spring 2022 production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Read more»

May 2022

AHA Pays Tribute to Sister Sharon Slear, Diane Oakley at Angelic Evening

Demarest, NJ:  The extended Academy of the Holy Angels community assembled to enjoy Angelic Evening 2022, a festive night of dinner, dancing, and accolades for two women who exemplify enduring commitment to AHA. Sister Sharon Slear, SSND, received the Legacy Award, and Diane Oakley (AHA ’71) received the Distinguished Alumna Award at the gala held at River Vale’s Edgewood Country Club.Read more»

AHA Extends Warm & Informative Welcome to Prospective Families

Demarest, NJ: Spring Open House attracted a notable turnout of prospective families to the Academy of the Holy Angels. Visitors enjoyed a warm welcome from the Angel Ambassadors and robotics team members, who showcased one of their recent creations. Read more»

AHA Golfers Earn Rare Triple Crown, Finish Second in State

Demarest, NJ: The varsity golfers from the Academy of the Holy Angels just completed a lights-out, first-ever undefeated season (14-0 in overall league play) that included an elusive triple crown. The Angels are now league champions, Big North champions, and AHA’s first Bergen County AND State Sectional champions. On May 16, the Angels finished second in the state, and Angelina Kim of Tenafly finished third in the state as an individual. The team includes Kim, ’25; Sharanya Agarwal of West New York, ’25; Sidney Chung of Cresskill, ’24; Inha Jun of Edgewater, ’25; and Amelia Shen of Demarest, ‘23. Read more»

AHA’s Upper & Middle School Scientists Try a Chem Lab Collaboration

Demarest, NJ: Students from Sharon Jureller’s Advanced Placement Chemistry class at the Academy of the Holy Angels recently spent time working on double-replacement reaction activities with Linda Payonzeck’s seventh grade science students from AHA Middle School. Both classes met in the upper school’s chemistry lab, where middle schoolers discovered how positive and negative ions from two ionic compounds trade places and form new compounds. Read more»

Families Enjoy First Grandparents’ Day at AHA Middle School

Demarest, NJ:  It was a morning to remember. On May 17, students in Grades 6-8 observed the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School’s very first Grandparents’ Day. AHA President Melinda Hanlon welcomed everyone to the event, which organized by Middle School Dean Traci Koval, and included an Easter Liturgy coordinated by Campus Ministry Director Kathleen Sylvester, Campus Minister Maryanne Miloscia, and Performing Arts Director Dan Mahoney.  Read more»

National Business Honor Society Welcomes Students from AHA

Demarest, NJ: Holy Angels juniors and seniors who excel in the Academy’s business education program have been inducted into the National Business Honor Society. AHA’s business and technology teacher Krystal Reilly led the May 16 induction ceremony for upperclassmen who have maintained an average of 3.5 or higher in their business courses.  Read more»

AHA’s Hoover & Sirico to Continue Athletic Careers at College

Demarest, NJ:  Academy of the Holy Angels seniors Eliza Hoover and Julianna Sirico have signed letters of intent to continue their athletic careers during their college years. Hoover, a varsity track star, will run for Gettysburg College as she pursues her degree in business, management, and organizations. Sirico, a soccer standout, will play for Franklin and Marshall College while she studies applied mathematics. Read more»

AHA’s First International DECA Competitors Excel in Atlanta

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels’ first DECA International Career Development Conference qualifiers wowed the judges, and finished at the top of nearly 18,000 peers from high schools in multiple nations. This year’s conference took place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, from April 23 through 26. Read more»

Holy Angels Hosts Easter Liturgy/Grandparents’ Day

Demarest, NJ: The Class of 2022 observed their final Grandparents’ Day (Friday, April 29) at Holy Angels with visits from cherished relatives from near and far. The day began with breakfast in the Student Commons organized by the AHA Advancement Team, followed by a combination Easter and Grandparents’ Day Mass organized by AHA Campus Ministry. Read more»

April 2022

Angels Earn Principal’s List, Honor Roll Recognition

Demarest, NJ: This spring, Holy Angels’ high school students who achieve excellent grade point averages were honored for their work through the third quarter of the 2021-22 academic year. Those who maintain an average of 95 or higher are named to the Principal’s List. Students with averages of 90 through 94 are named to the Honor Roll. Read more»

AHA Middle School Students Earn Dean’s List Honors

Demarest, NJ: Fifty-five students from the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School were named to the Dean’s List for maintaining grade point averages of 95-100. Dean Traci Koval reported that the following students in Grades 6-8 were honored at end of the third quarter. Read more»

Oxford University Hosts Bespoke Course for Holy Angels’ Scholars

Demarest, NJ: This study abroad opportunity is personal -- in the best possible way. Several intellectually curious scholars from the Academy of the Holy Angels just ventured across the Atlantic, and immersed themselves in a bespoke critical thinking course at Oxford University’s Pembroke College. While tailor-made classes are usually reserved for college students, AHA English Department Chair Nancy Schneberger developed this challenging course especially for the young women from Holy Angels. The curriculum she prepared incorporates growth mindset concepts and links into the Academy’s philosophy of transforming individuals through education. Read more»

AHA Social Studies Teacher Jennifer Cucchisi Receives Keats Grant

Demarest, NJ: Jennifer Cucchisi, a social studies teacher at the Academy of the Holy Angels, has received a Joan Lavine Keats Social Justice Institute Teacher’s Grant. This $400 award is presented by The Julius and Dorothy Koppelman Holocaust/Genocide Resource Center of the Center for Diversity and Inclusion at Rider University. Read more»

AHA Middle School Athletic Coordinator & Student Athletes Earn Awards

Demarest, NJ: Eighth grade athletes Alessandra Cardamone and Gemma Siliciano, both of whom are members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School’s first volleyball and basketball teams, have earned the Archdiocese of Newark’s Sportsmanship Award. AHA Middle School Athletic Coordinator Sarah Chalmers, who organized these inaugural middle school sports programs, received the Discipleship Award. Read more»

Empowered with Kindness: Academy Honors Inspirational Students 

Demarest, NJ: Ria Jani, Annalise Olsen, Karina Small, and Gina Certo are empowered, not only with strength and confidence, but with the gift of inspirational kindness. This month, all four students received AHA’s Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award for exhibiting the warmth, kindness, and nurturing spirit for which AHA educator S. Catherine was known. Read more»

AHA Senior Gian Lee Wins National Gold Medal for Art

Demarest, NJ: Gian Lee, a senior at the Academy of the Holy Angels, earned a National Gold Medal in the 2022 Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. She was recognized for her painting, “Photosynthesis,” which depicts the artist’s shadow cast onto lush foliage. Read more»

Cardiologist Brings College-level Case Study to AHA Students

Demarest, NJ:  Dr. Alan Shah, a cardiologist and clinical assistant professor from New York University’s Langone Medical Center, recently challenged Academy of the Holy Angels students to diagnose and remedy cardiac issues. Dr. Shah worked with AHA Science Department Chair Patricia Prucnel’s honors anatomy and physiology class, and later spoke with a group of high school Angels from multiple grades. Read more»

AHA Begins ‘Connecting Body, Mind, and Spirit’ on Awareness Day

Demarest, NJ:  “The best version of the world starts with the best version of me,” psychologist Dr. Linda Terry told the Academy of the Holy Angels on Awareness Day (March 30). Her keynote speech, “Me vs. My Anxiety,” was a highlight of this year’s exploration of multidimensional wellness. Read more»

AHA’s Best Scientists & Mathematicians Join National Honor Societies 

Demarest, NJ: Multiple Holy Angels students who excel in science and math have been inducted into the Academy’s chapters of the Science National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. The joint ceremony took place on March 31. Read more»

March 2022

Ghost Day Speaker: Seek Help to Break Free from Addiction

Demarest, NJ: The Students Against Destructive Decisions group from the Academy of the Holy Angels hosted Ghost Day on March 29. Several SADD members dressed in black and remained silent for the day to honor those lost to destructive decisions. Read more»

AHA Students Bring Zing to Music in Our Schools Month®

Demarest, NJ: Music in Our Schools Month® is here again, and the halls of Holy Angels are alive with pop-up performances by the Academy’s vocalists and instrumental musicians. Read more»

AHA’s All-Girl Robotics Teams Help Close STEM Gender Gap

Demarest, NJ: When someone says “robotics,” do you picture a girl building her own creation and programming it to perform specific tasks? You should. The young women from the Academy of the Holy Angels regularly construct robots and test them in competition. Together, they are preparing to close the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and math careers. Read more»

International Week Brings Holy Angels Community Together

Demarest, NJ:  International Week returned to the Holy Angels campus February 28-March 4, with glimpses into the many nations and cultures represented within the Academy’s community. Formerly a one-day event, students from the AHA Diversity Council recently developed International Night into a multi-day world “tour.” Read more»

AHA Excels at States; Several Are First Angels to Qualify for Nationals 

Demarest, NJ: Sharanya Agarwal, Lily Cossio, Brooke Hess, Jaclyn Larraz, and Shivani Sahu just became the first students from the Academy of the Holy Angels Distributive Education Clubs of America Team to qualify for the National DECA Competition. This event will be held in Atlanta, Georgia, in April 2022. Read more»

Women’s History Month: Sister Henrice Eckert ‘Remembers When’

Demarest, NJ: Sister Henrice Eckert, SSND, has witnessed a good deal of history before and after her 1941 graduation from the Academy of the Holy Angels. This June, she will celebrate her 99th birthday and the 81st anniversary of her graduation from AHA. She has been a School Sister of Notre Dame for 77 years, and retired at age 88. She recently shared her recollections about AHA and some personal details just in time for Women’s History Month. Read more»

AHA Students Pray for Peace in Ukraine, Raise Awareness of Crisis

Demarest, NJ: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is affecting citizens in many nations, including two Academy of the Holy Angels students who recognize that peace cannot wait. Nicole Yakubov and Alexis Mysliwiec, founders of AHA’s Slavic-Baltic Cultural Society, stepped up during International Week (February 28 through March 4), leading the school community in moving prayers for peace that were delivered in Ukrainian and English. Read more»

World Language Scholars Enter Honor Societies; Moran Award Recipients Announced 

Demarest, NJ: During International Week, the Academy of the Holy Angels welcomed exceptional world language scholars to the French, Italian, Latin, and Spanish national honor societies. Read more»

Holy Angels Dancers Sweep State Competition 

Demarest, NJ: It’s a clean sweep for the Academy of the Holy Angels dancers! All three AHA teams brought home state titles at the New Jersey Cheer and Dance State Championships. This February 27 event was hosted by Brookdale Community College in Lincroft. Read more»

February 2022

‘Self Care Fair’ at AHA Takes the Sting out of Stress

Demarest, NJ: Stress can pull the joy out life, so students from the Academy of the Holy Angels developed a Self Care Fair. Held on the morning of February 16, this student-led event included multiple positive strategies for coping with stress. Read more»

Dr. Melba Pattillo Beals Addresses AHA Via Virtual Visit

Demarest, NJ: Dr. Melba Pattillo Beals, a noted journalist and educator, addressed the Academy of the Holy Angels on February 9. Sixty-five years ago, Beals gained worldwide attention as one of the Little Rock Nine, the nine black teenagers who were chosen to integrate Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1957. Read more»

Discover the Path to Success at AHA’s Spring Open House

Demarest, NJ: Behind every successful Angel is her growth mindset education. Plan to attend the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Spring Open House on Tuesday, May 17, and discover how this prestigious, all-girls school empowers young women through a nationally acclaimed STREAM education. Angels learn to lead in an uplifting atmosphere, where they are encouraged to surmount temporary obstacles, and encounter success throughout their lives. Read more»

AHA Dancers Score Medals, Top Ten Finishes at Nationals

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels dancers fuse grace and grit to consistently power to the top of the Universal Dance Association High School National Championship. This year, the varsity dancers earned a silver medal in small varsity hip-hop, finishing second in a field of 37 of the nation’s best teams. Varsity also earned a bronze for finishing third out of 57 teams in small varsity pom. Read more»

AHA Takes First at SSND Trivia Night; Donates Prize to Caroline House

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels trivia masters Jaqueline Arbogast, Ava Santoro, Maia German, and Alexis Mysliwiec brought home the top prize in the Second Annual SSND Trivia Night. This Catholic Schools Week contest is hosted by the North America Vocation Team of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, and includes SSND trivia and general knowledge. Read more»

Students with Top GPAs Named to Principal’s List, Honor Roll

Demarest, NJ: Several Holy Angels students who maintain excellent grade point averages were honored for their work through the second quarter of the 2021-22 academic year. Those who maintain an average of 95 or higher are named to the Principal’s List. Students with averages of 90 through 94 are named to the Honor Roll. Read more»

CSW Liturgies Remind Angels: Bring Light to a Dark World 

Demarest, NJ: Catholic Schools Week is a perennially bright time at the Academy of the Holy Angels. This year, students and faculty from the new middle school joined in their first dedicated CSW Mass at AHA. The high school liturgy was held the following day. Read more»

Angels’ Early Acceptances Include Ivy League, International Institutions

Demarest, NJ: Seniors at the Academy of the Holy Angels have gained early acceptance to an impressive array of colleges and universities, including international and Ivy League institutions. The AHA Office of Academic and College Counseling reports that 72 percent of this year’s graduating class earned admission to their first-choice schools, including The American University of Paris, Baylor, Bucknell, Dartmouth, Princeton, Villanova, and Yale. Read more»

‘Blueprint,’ AHA’s Literary Magazine, Receives National Recognition

Demarest, NJ: The creative crew that produces “Blueprint,” the Academy of the Holy Angels’ literary magazine, recently received national recognition. Their 2021 publication received the rank of Merit from Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines, a program run by the National Council of Teachers of English. AHA was one of 209 schools from across America to submit a publication for adjudication by the national panel. Read more»

Students Recognized for Kindness

Demarest, NJ: Four Holy Angels students who demonstrate exemplary care and compassion have earned the Academy’s Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award. Myra Bocage, Sydney Ponti, Alexandra Valdez, and Sophia Karamanoukian were honored during the celebration of Catholic Schools Week (January 31 – February 4). Read more»

AHA Students Earn Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

Demarest, NJ: Nineteen students from the Academy of the Holy Angels received recognition in the regional leg of the 2022 Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. Together, AHA’s artists and writers earned nine Gold Keys, 10 Silver Keys, and 30 Honorable Mentions. The five students who won Gold Keys will now continue to the national competition. Read more»

January 2022

Elise Tao Earns Best Delegate at Yale Model UN Event

Demarest, NJ:  The Academy of the Holy Angels Model United Nations team is thriving in the realm of virtual competitions. Most recently, AHA sophomore Elise Tao earned Best Delegate (first place) honors at the Yale MUN Conference for her work as a member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization committee. Over 2,000 delegates from 200 schools around the globe participated in the four-day Yale event. Tao placed first out of more than 30 delegates in her committee. Read more»

Chelsie Lim Is Candidate for US Presidential Scholar in the Arts Program

Demarest, NJ: Chelsie Lim, a senior at the Academy of the Holy Angels, is a candidate for the U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts program. Lim received her invitation from the National YoungArts Foundation after becoming a 2021 YoungArts Finalist in Classical Music, the highest honor the foundation can confer. Read more»

Ten of AHA’s Finest Musicians Inducted into Tri-M Honor Society

Demarest, NJ: A select group of the Academy of the Holy Angels’ fine vocal and instrumental musicians recently earned membership in Tri-M, the Modern Music Masters Honor Society. AHA Tri-M Chapter 2150 welcomed 10 Angels who exemplify musical accomplishment, scholarship, character, leadership, and service. Read more»

You’re Welcome! Holy Angels Hosts Reception for Class of 2026

Demarest, NJ: You’re welcome at Holy Angels! This positive message permeated every aspect of the Academy’s COVID-conscious Admitted Students Reception for the Class of 2026. AHA Admissions Director Michèle McGovern and Assistant Director Jennifer Bullis agree that the energy and excitement were palpable at the Sunday, January 23, event. Turnout was excellent, and, for the first time, included eighth graders from the new AHA Middle School. Read more»

Sister Sharon Slear, Diane Oakley to Be Honored at Angelic Evening

Demarest, NJ: Spend May 12 at Angelic Evening, a sparkling night of well-deserved accolades for two women who exemplify enduring commitment to the Academy of the Holy Angels. Sister Sharon Slear, SSND, will bring home the Legacy Award for contributions that reflect the charism of the School Sisters of Notre Dame and make a lasting impact on the Academy and the people it serves. Diane Oakley (AHA ’71) will receive the Distinguished Alumna Award for her extraordinary loyalty, commitment, dedication, and service to the advancement of AHA. Read more»

AHA Violinist Natalie Yoo to Play for Region 1 Orchestra

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels sophomore Natalie Yoo will be playing violin for the North Jersey School Music Association’s Region I Orchestra. Yoo quickly rose to the top as she participated in the rigorous audition process. Read more»

AHA Vocalist Named to Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall

Demarest, NJ: The new year brought exciting news for vocalist Deanna Frassa. The New Milford resident has been accepted to the highly selective High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall. Frassa, a member of the Class of 2022 at the Academy of the Holy Angels, will be singing with other talented teens in early February. Read more»

Goyal Sets Sights on Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology

Demarest, NJ: Ava Goyal was leading her middle school STEM team into national competition when she realized how the sciences yield positive solutions to global issues. Today, this aspiring clinical neuropsychologist is the Academy of the Holy Angels’ candidate for the New Jersey Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology. Goyal, a junior from Montclair, received her nomination prior to the holiday break. She is now applying to the multi-week immersion program that will be held at Rutgers University this summer. Read more»

December 2021

AHA Junior Rachel Mina Is Candidate for Governor’s School in the Sciences

Demarest, NJ: Rachel Mina, a junior at the Academy of the Holy Angels and future psychiatrist, is a candidate for the prestigious New Jersey Governor’s School in the Sciences. The AHA Office of Academic & College Counseling announced Mina’s candidacy on December 14. She will now apply for the three-week residential immersion program that will be held at Drew University in July 2022. Participants will engage in college-level research and scientific collaboration. Read more»

It’s Your Turn: Discover AHA Middle School at January 30 Open House

Demarest, NJ:  It’s your turn to experience the Academy of the Holy Angels’ exceptional world of exploration. Visit the Sunday, January 30, AHA Middle School Open House from 2 to 4 p.m.  Read more»

First Dean’s List & Honor Roll Released by AHA Middle School

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School, which opened in September 2021, has released its first Dean’s List and Honor Roll. Traci Koval, dean of AHA Middle School, explained that students are recognized based on their overall grade point average. No honoree may have any grade below an 85 on her report card. In order to make the Honor Roll, a student must post a GPA of 90 to 94. The Dean’s List is reserved for students with GPAs of 95 or higher. Read more»

Angels Send Christmas Cheer to Students at Saint Peter the Apostle

Demarest, NJ: The Saint Nicholas Day celebration shared by the Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest and Saint Peter the Apostle School in Philadelphia fosters memories that last a lifetime. This year, the AHA Student Council extended the COVID-safe “event” they launched in 2020, when they were first unable to visit Philadelphia in person. Read more»

‘A Place at the Table’ Brings Hunger Issues to the Fore

Demarest, NJ: It’s a season of celebrations, but many New Jersey families are struggling to provide their families with the most basic foods. The sophomore class at the Academy of the Holy Angels spent their retreat getting to the heart of hunger issues in the local community. Read more»

Socks for Soldiers Benefits Adopt-a-Soldier Platoon & Beyond Borders

Demarest, NJ: The savvy students from Angels for Veterans and the Academy of the Holy Angels Basketball Team used a dress down opportunity to raise funds for Adopt-a-Soldier Platoon, Inc. and Beyond Borders. The two groups developed and cohosted Socks for Soldiers, which allowed students to wear “crazy socks” to school in exchange for a $2 donation. Read more»

Andrew Monticello Joins AHA’s Performing Arts Staff

Demarest, NJ: Andrew Monticello recently became the newest member of the Academy of the Holy Angels Performing Arts Department. The Academy’s new music teacher and orchestra conductor stepped in for Mariann Annecchino, who retired in October. Read more»

Anna Jang Is AHA’s New Jersey Scholars Program Nominee

Demarest, NJ: Anna Jang has been chosen to represent the Academy of the Holy Angels at the 2022 New Jersey Scholars Program. The junior from Tenafly accepted her nomination from AHA, and will now submit her application to the five-week residential program. Read more»

Holy Angels Recognizes High School Students with Stellar GPAs

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels paused to recognize students who have maintained excellent grade point averages through the first quarter of the 2021-22 academic year. Angels who maintain an average of 95 or higher are named to the Principal’s List. Students with averages of 90 through 94 are named to the Honor Roll. Read more»

Teen Tennis Phenom Is USTA National Girls’ 16 Indoor Singles Champ

Demarest, NJ: Erin Ha, a teen tennis phenomenon from Tenafly, recently won the USTA National Girls’ 16 Indoor Singles Championship. Ha recently transferred to the Academy of the Holy Angels, where she is a junior. Read more»

November 2021

AHA Community Presents Community FoodBank of NJ with 88 Turkeys

Demarest, NJ: Eighty-eight families who currently face food insecurity have received Thanksgiving turkeys from the Academy of the Holy Angels. Each year, AHA hosts a Thanksgiving Turkey Drive to benefit Community FoodBank of New Jersey in Hillside.    Read more»

AHA Volunteers Help Make ‘Lamp for Haiti’ Gala a Success 

Demarest, NJ: Julia Swearer realized the 15th Annual Lamp for Haiti Gala would need volunteers and took the lead by recruiting friends from the Academy of the Holy Angels. Swearer, an AHA senior from Upper Montclair, received assistance from Leah Bresnan, Olivia Costa, Alexandra Darmanin, Ava Goyal, Demitra Karlis, Scarlett Mazzola, and Natalia Ruiz. Read more»

Holy Angels Seniors Enter Rho Kappa Honor Society 

Demarest, NJ: Forty-three Academy of the Holy Angels seniors are now members of the Alice Paul Chapter of the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society. Inductees were honored at the Tenth Annual Rho Kappa ceremony which took place on November 16. Read more»

Holy Angels Announces 2022 HOBY Representatives, Alternate 

Demarest, NJ: Kate Hynes of Park Ridge and Elise Tao of Upper Saddle River will represent the Academy of the Holy Angels at the 2022 Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference. Sarah David of Cresskill was named an alternate. Read more»

Kindness Award Winners Embody AHA’s Compassion & Inclusion

Demarest, NJ: Five young women who are living examples of compassion, inclusion, and honesty have earned the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award. The Academy of the Holy Angels honored Katherine Merriam, Vanessa Medina, Daniella Demaras, Juliet Gelineau, and Alessandra Boncaldo on November 11. Read more»

Three AHA Athletes Ratify Contracts on National Signing Day 

Demarest, NJ: Lacrosse luminary Emily Danahy, tennis star Brooke Hess, and soccer standout Caelan McHugh inked letters of intent with Siena College, Dartmouth, and the University of Rhode Island on National Signing Day. The Academy of the Holy Angels hosted a November 10 ceremony in honor of these three top-flight senior athletes. Read more»

Angel Showcase Day Was Active, Engaging AHA Experience

Demarest, NJ: Nearly 160 eighth grade applicants to the Academy of the Holy Angels eagerly participated in Angel Showcase Day (November 4). The AHA Admissions Team organized the event so future ninth graders could spend a day exploring their individual interests at the Academy in a COVID-safe environment. Read more»

AHA Remembers Sister Genevieve Marie Kelleher, SSND

Demarest, NJ: Sister Genevieve Marie Kelleher, SSND, passed away on October 24, 2021, the 188th anniversary of the founding of her congregation, the School Sisters of Notre Dame. S. Genevieve was 97. Read more»

Indulge in AHA’s Production of ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’

Demarest, NJ: Indulge in a bit of macabre comedy as the award-winning Academy of the Holy Angels Theater Department presents “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Shows will be Friday and Saturday, November 12 and 13, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 14, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 each and must be purchased ahead of time online at aha.booktix.com» Tickets will not be sold at the door. Patrons must wear masks. Socially distant seating will be observed. Read more»

Clothing Drive at AHA to Benefit Angels in the Arts

Demarest, NJ: Clean out your closets and donate your new or used wearable items to the Angels in the Arts Clothing Drive. This drive will benefit students at the Academy of the Holy Angels and Strengthen Our Sisters. Clothing Donation Services will be on campus on Sunday, November 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. CDS employees will accept bagged items directly from people’s vehicles to ensure that this event is contactless and COVID safe. All CDS employees will be wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and following all COVID-19 protocols. Read more»

October 2021

AHA Community Looks Back, Then Moves Forward on Foundation Day

Demarest, NJ: On October 22, the Holy Angels community joyfully recalled the 188th anniversary of the establishment of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, the Academy’s foundresses and sponsors. The Foundation Day Prayer Service allowed the AHA community to look back to 1833, and resolve to move forward by living the SSND charism. Read more»

Sister Nonna Dunphy Scholarship Finalists & Semifinalists Recognized

Demarest, NJ: The 2021-22 Sister Nonna Dunphy Scholarship finalists and semifinalists were announced at Academy of the Holy Angels’ October 22 Foundation Day ceremony. Read more»

Holy Angels Recognizes National Merit® Honorees

Demarest, NJ:  The Academy of the Holy Angels recently paused to recognize this year’s National Merit® Scholarship Program honorees, including National Merit® Scholarship Semifinalist Ria Jani, several Commended Students, and the outstanding Angels who were named to the National African-American Recognition Program and the National Hispanic Recognition Program. Each student’s achievement was based on her excellent performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test. Read more»

Surrealist Finishes First in Congressional Art Awards & American Art Awards

Demarest, NJ: Surrealist Gian Lee of Englewood Cliffs is building an impressive collection of awards for her art, including first place accolades in both the American Art Awards and the Congressional Art Awards in District 9. Read more»

Mariann Annecchino Retires as AHA’s Instrumental Music Director

Demarest, NJ: Mariann Annecchino has retired from her post as instrumental music director at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Her 21-year career at the Academy officially came to a close on October 15, and included a final “pop up” concert in the Student Commons. Read more»

Teen Knits Blankets for Facility That Cared for Her Grandmother

Demarest, NJ: Knitting aficionado Katelyn Freeburn just donated five of her handcrafted lap blankets to patients at the Woodcliff Lake Health & Rehabilitation Center. The Academy of the Holy Angels sophomore (Class of ‘24) specifically chose this facility because the center’s staff recently cared for her grandmother. Read more»

AHA Shows Care for All by Helping Outreach Organizations Fill Shelves

Demarest, NJ: Hundreds of local families are now benefitting from a Diaper and Toiletry Drive sponsored by the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Campus Ministry Department. This effort is particularly important since diapers and toiletries are essential items that are not covered by state or federal assistance programs. Read more»

Future Angels Appreciate AHA’s Personal Approach to Open House 

Demarest, NJ: Prospective Angels and their families gave the Academy of the Holy Angels excellent ratings for the October 3 Fall Open House. Survey respondents said they appreciated the personal approach, which included tours led by Angel Ambassadors, current students who provide firsthand knowledge of life at the Academy. Read more»

Bishop Saporito Commissions Eucharistic Ministers, Blesses New Middle School as AHA Commemorates Feast Day

Demarest, NJ: The Holy Angels community hosted a memorable Feast Day celebration in honor of the Academy’s 142nd anniversary. Bishop Michael Saporito presided at the October 1 Liturgy, where he commissioned several new Eucharistic Ministers. He also provided a special blessing for the new AHA Middle School, which opened to Grades 6-8 on September 10. Read more»

September 2021

Aspiring Civil Rights Attorney Attends ACLU Advocacy Institute

Demarest, NJ: Erin Pav of Westwood recently attended the 2021 American Civil Liberties Union Advocacy Institute, a week-long virtual event held over the summer. The Academy of the Holy Angels junior was an ideal candidate: Pav is an aspiring civil rights attorney who sees herself working for the ACLU. Read more»

AHA’s Ellie Sawyer Is Working to ‘Reclam’ Barnegat Bay

Demarest, NJ: Teen environmentalist Ellie Sawyer is doing her part to restore New Jersey’s Barnegat Bay. In 2015, this Weehawken resident got involved with Reclam the Bay at the suggestion of her aunt and a family friend. Sawyer’s continuing involvement is a positive indicator of a perfect fit. Read more»

AHA Senior Learns Benefits of Blending Service & Recycling

Demarest, NJ: Holly Foothorap has a new appreciation for the value of a plastic bottle. During a 10-day service trip to the Dominican Republic, this Academy of the Holy Angels senior repurposed these ubiquitous recyclables to construct a durable home for a local family. Read more»

Holy Angels Opens Middle School as New Academic Year Begins

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels ushered in the 2021-22 academic year by welcoming the new AHA Middle School’s first students, 133 incoming freshmen, and returning high school students. Read more»

Register Now for AHA’s October 3 Open House

Demarest, NJ:  Register today for the Academy of the Holy Angels’ High School Fall Open House, and prepare to discover a world of innovation, aspiration, and exploration. This premier event of the season is set for Sunday, October 3, 2021. Read more»

AHA Cellist Earns Seat in the 2021-22 All-State Orchestra

Demarest, NJ:  Music is a vital part of life for cellist Cecilia Yun, who recently earned a seat in the 2021-22 All-State Orchestra. Read more»

Summer 2021

Dance Camp Jump-starts the Season for Holy Angels Teams

Demarest, NJ:  This summer, dancers from the Academy of the Holy Angels jump-started their season by participating in the Universal Dance Association Camp in Pennsylvania. This was the first event for the brand new AHA Middle School Dance Team, who attended with the varsity team, winners of five national championships; and the JV team, which earned its first national title this year. Read more»

Skill & Sportsmanship Spell Success at Harvard China Model UN

Demarest, NJ: Skill and sportsmanship fueled the Academy of the Holy Angels’ success at this summer’s virtual Harvard China Model United Nations Conference. The Academy’s delegates to this international event drew several honors and demonstrated leadership, mentorship, expertise, and diplomacy. Read more»

Bergen Teen Donates Handmade Hats to Valley Hospital’s NICU

Demarest, NJ: Moved by the loss of her infant sister, Erin Choi decided to use her knitting skills to craft hats for babies who require a stay in intensive care. This summer, the 2021 Academy of the Holy Angels graduate presented the Valley Hospital with 40 hats made by Choi and her club, Knitting for a Kause. Read more»

Holy Angels Students Attain Principal’s List & Honor Roll Recognition

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels concluded the 2020-21 academic year by recognizing the students who maintained excellent averages through the fourth quarter. Angels with averages of 95 or higher are named to the Principal’s List. Those with averages of 90 through 94 are named to the Honor Roll. The following students were honored for their academic achievements. Read more»

June 2021

Starting Strong: AHA Middle School Welcomes Faculty & Staff

Demarest, NJ: This September, when the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School opens its doors for the very first time, several core faculty and staff members will be ready to greet, teach, and guide the students in Grades 6-8. Meet the dedicated professionals who will be working with our incoming Angels. Read more»

Multi-sport Standout Allison Bart Receives 2021 Angel Award

Demarest, NJ: The Class of 2021 gathered on the school field, sitting with their families to observe health and safety protocols. As a class, the new graduates dedicated 16,646 service hours outside of AHA, and amassed more than $11.5 million in scholarships. Read more»

AHA’s 141st Class Will Continue Studies at Bard, Yale, & Beyond

Demarest, NJ: The Class of 2021 gathered on the school field, sitting with their families to observe health and safety protocols. As a class, the new graduates dedicated 16,646 service hours outside of AHA, and amassed more than $11.5 million in scholarships. Read more»

Kindness Award Winners Are Examples to Entire AHA Community

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels students Jacqueline Arbogast, Grace Koustas, and Anissa Lena recently received the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award. Read more»

Angels for Veterans Volunteers Place Flags for Memorial Day

Demarest, NJ: Angels for Veterans Moderator Angela Kunz and group member Reilly Guy ensured that veterans who are interred at the Fair Lawn Memorial Cemetery & Mausoleum would be remembered on Memorial Day. These Academy of the Holy Angels volunteers worked with the Fair Lawn Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to place an American flag on every veteran’s grave. Read more»

AHA Thespian Recognized for Starring Role in ‘Sister Act’

Demarest, NJ: Valeria Gonzalez, star of the Academy of the Holy Angels’ virtual production of “Sister Act,” earned an Honorable Mention in the 2021 Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards. The AHA senior was recognized in the Outstanding Solo Performance by an Actress category. Read more»

May 2021

Carmen Quiñones Named AHA’s Academic Dean; Francesca Tambone-Puzio, Who Defined the Role, Will Retire Next Month

Demarest, NJ: Carmen Quiñones, a Spanish language teacher at the Academy of the Holy Angels, has been named academic dean. On July 1, Quiñones will take the reins from Francesca Tambone-Puzio, who recently announced that she would be retiring at the end of June. Tambone-Puzio became AHA’s first academic dean in September 2016. Read more»

AHA Honors Sister Mary Maher, Luckow Family at Angelic Evening

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels recognized Sister Mary Maher, SSND (AHA ’68), and the Luckow family at this year’s Angelic Evening Gala. The May 26 event, which had been on pause since last year, was held at the Edgewood Country Club in River Vale, New Jersey. Read more»

AHA’s Varsity Dancers Sign with Top Collegiate Teams

Demarest, NJ: Just weeks after reclaiming their national title, four varsity dancers from the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Class of 2021 became members of some the nation’s best collegiate dance teams. This year’s recruits are Carmela Alessio of Belleville, University of Central Florida; Tamara Kim of Demarest, Vanderbilt; Giselle Martin of Bergenfield, Rutgers University; and Valeria Pernicone of New Milford, Villanova. A signing ceremony was held at AHA on May 26. Read more»

Spring Open House Provides Close-up of Holy Angels

Demarest, NJ: On May 12, Angel Ambassadors, administrators, faculty, and staff teamed up to provide an exciting close-up of life at the Academy of the Holy Angels. This hybrid Spring Open House included in-person tours in the afternoon and an online presentation during the evening. Read more»

AHA Team Helps Hackensack Riverkeeper Tidy Local Park

Demarest, NJ: A team of students and teachers from the Academy of the Holy Angels spent a beautiful May Saturday helping Hackensack Riverkeeper tidy Kenneth B. George Park in River Edge. Read more»

AHA Shares Love, Faith, & Hope on Service Day

Demarest, NJ: Members of the Holy Angels community expressed the Academy’s 2020-21 theme by “Sharing Our Love, Faith, and Hope” on Service Day (May 19). Read more»

Eighty-four Angels Enter Regina Angelorum Chapter of NHS

Demarest, NJ: This spring, the Regina Angelorum Chapter of the National Honor Society welcomed 84 of the Academy of the Holy Angels’ top scholars from the junior and senior classes. NHS Moderator and AHA science teacher Sharon Jureller organized the May 20 induction ceremony, which was led by NHS Chapter President Valentina Zazzali and Vice President JaeMin Chu. Read more»

AHA Students Present and Attend the Community FoodBank of NJ’s Global Youth Service Day & Teen Hunger Forum

Demarest, NJ: Students from the Academy of the Holy Angels volunteered their time to help the Community FoodBank of New Jersey present this spring’s Global Youth Service Day and Teen Hunger Forum. Teens from across New Jersey, including several Angels, attended both virtual events, which included discussions of hunger in our communities and ways to help. AHA’s participation was coordinated by Campus Minister Maryanne Miloscia. Read more»

AHA’s Tri-M Chapter Shows Support for the Paterson Music Project

Demarest, NJ: Holy Angels’ Tri-M Music Honor Society is encouraging the City of Paterson’s youngest residents to pursue instrumental music. This spring, Tri-M Chapter 2150 donated $500 to the Paterson Music Project, a tuition-free, after school program run through the nonprofit Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts. Read more»

National Art Honor Society Accepts Selected AHA Juniors & Seniors

Demarest, NJ: Twenty-one fine artists from the Academy of the Holy Angels have been inducted into the National Art Honor Society. AHA art teacher Kathryn Biskup organized the COVID-conscious induction ceremony, which was held in the school library and accessible online. Read more»

AHA Musicians Earn Grand Prizes in Competition

Demarest, NJ: Violinist Nayoun Kim and cellist Chelsie Lim recently secured Grand Prize wins in competition. Kim earned a first place finish in the Camerata Artists International Competition. Lim played her way to the top spot in the Semi-Annual Philadelphia International Music Festival Virtual Concerto Competition. Read more»

Carole Tabano Marks 60 Years as School Sister of Notre Dame

Demarest, NJ: Carole Tabano, SSND, celebrated her 60th Jubilee as a School Sister of Notre Dame on May 1. The Zoom/live stream event reached viewers in Italy, England, Canada, and the United States. S. Carole was honored to give the opening address. Read more»

Adventures in Ink Delivers 700 Books to SSND School in Philadelphia

Demarest, NJ: Saint Peter the Apostle School in Philadelphia recently received a delivery of over 700 books courtesy of Adventures in Ink. Academy of the Holy Angels junior Isabella Dail of Saddle River initiated this non-profit child literacy and educational equity program in 2018. These days, she is expanding her effort with the help of new team members. Read more»

April 2021

Teens Sending Relief to COVID-19 Patients in India

Demarest, NJ: Natasha Dhanrajani leaped into action when she realized she could bring relief to COVID-19 patients in India. The Academy of the Holy Angels junior contacted three friends and established a GoFundMe page https://gofund.me/5ec36ddc to raise money for the purchase of oxygen concentrators. Read more»

Holy Angels Students Honored for Exemplary Kindness

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels students Hailey Filera, Hannah Kim, Gianna Rodriguez, and Kristina Migliaccio have received the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award. This award provides recognition for each recipient and recalls S. Catherine, a School Sister of Notre Dame who taught religious studies at AHA from 1982 to 2014. Read more»

Inaugural AHA Middle School Open House Earns Top Ratings

Demarest, NJ: Sixty-four families attended the inaugural Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School Open House, and reacted by giving AHA excellent survey ratings. The April 21 event included in-person campus tours in the afternoon followed by an online information session. Read more»

National Victories: AHA’s Varsity Dancers Earn Fifth Hip-Hop Title; JV Wins First UDA Championship

Demarest, NJ: Holy Angels’ quest for a fifth national title in small varsity hip-hop concluded this month in Orlando, as the dominant dancers reclaimed the number one spot they held in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. The Academy’s junior varsity team also topped the Universal Dance Association’s leader board, executing a pom routine that earned that squad its first national title. Read more»

Social Outreach Is Key Element of Teen’s Custom Clothing Venture

Demarest, NJ: In June 2020, Academy of the Holy Angels junior Hannah Kim established 5/15 Collection, a custom clothing business with a social conscience. The Cresskill teen uses her venture to raise awareness for various causes, and donates a portion of her proceeds to support positive change. Read more»

AHA’s Dartmouth Delegation Earns Honors at Model UN Conference

Demarest, NJ: The Holy Angels Model United Nations Team is rising to the top of the Ivy League competitions. In early April, 10 Holy Angels delegates participated in the virtual Dartmouth Model UN Conference, and four received top awards. Read more»

AHA Dancers Make Clean Sweep in State Competition

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels’ dance teams are taking on their own version of spring cleaning: They just completed a sweep of first place awards in state competition. AHA earned state titles in varsity pom and hip-hop and JV pom and hip-hop. Read more»

March 2021

AHA Sets May 12 Open House for Prospective High School Students

Demarest, NJ: Get ready for an experience you’ll always remember: The Academy of the Holy Angels’ Wednesday, May 12, Spring Open House. Prospective high school students who will be entering Grades 9 and 10 this September are invited to this hybrid event. Read more»

AHA’s Parents’ Athletic Association to Host Virtual 5K

Demarest, NJ: Start training now! The Academy of the Holy Angels Parents’ Athletic Association will host its first Virtual 5K the weekend of May 7-9, 2021. Participants are invited to run or walk at a time of their choice, and may post progress reports with photos on social media. Read more»

AHA Sophomore Wins National Gold Medal for Film & Animation

Demarest, NJ: A teen artist who takes her cue from societal issues has become a national gold medalist in the Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. Academy of the Holy Angels sophomore Stella Ouyang was recognized for “Connecting Through Boundaries,” a video the artist says concerns the struggle against racism. She was honored for her exceptional work in film and animation through a blind adjudication process. Read more»

Outstanding Math & Science Students Enter Honor Societies

Demarest, NJ: On March 25, Academy of the Holy Angels students who demonstrate outstanding work in mathematics and the sciences were welcomed into Mu Alpha Theta and the Science National Honor Society. Inductees are examples of Angels who take full advantage of AHA’s award-winning, nationally recognized STREAM curriculum, which emphasizes science, technology, religion, engineering, art, and math. Read more»

AHA Examines ‘Care for Our Common Home’ on Awareness Day

Demarest, NJ: On Awareness Day 2021, members of the Academy of the Holy Angels community paused to consider “Care for Our Common Home.” AHA Director of Mission and Ministry Joan Connelly selected the theme for this webinar from Pope Francis’ 2015 letter to the world. His message underscores the reality that the earth’s gifts belong to everyone. Read more»

AHA’s Outstanding World Language Students Join Honor Societies

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels students who are mastering four world languages have gained entry to the French, Italian, Latin, and Spanish national honor societies. Read more»

AHA’s First Dance Invitational Was Unique Opportunity

Demarest, NJ: Selected dance teams from across the State of New Jersey executed their routines for a distinguished panel of judges at the first-ever Academy of the Holy Angels Dance Invitational. In addition to being the first event of this kind hosted by AHA, the March 14 invitational was the only opportunity for in-person dance competition during the 2020-21 season. COVID-19 safety was a priority. Read more»

Holy Angels Students Enter National Business Honor Society

Demarest, NJ: Holy Angels students who excel in the Academy’s business education program were inducted into the National Business Honor Society on March 19. Eligible students are required to maintain an average of 3.5 or higher in their business courses. Read more»

Registration Underway for Inaugural AHA Middle School Open House

Demarest, NJ: Registration for the Inaugural Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School Open House is underway. Students who plan to attend Grade 6, 7, or 8 at AHA should visit www.holyangels.org today. Read more»

AHA’s DECA Team Earns Honors in Statewide Competition

Demarest, NJ: Emerging business leaders from the Academy of the Holy Angels earned some impressive honors at the all-virtual 2021 DECA State Championship. Read more»

AHA’s International Week Includes Cultural Exploration & Appreciation

Demarest, NJ: Meaningful relationships start when people take time to understand each other. During the first week of March, the Academy of the Holy Angels hosted International Week to foster a greater appreciation of the many cultures within the school community. Read more»

Sound On: Music in Our Schools Month® Is Back at Holy Angels

Demarest, NJ: Can you hear the Angels sing? You will, if you’re fortunate enough to work or study at Holy Angels during March, better known as Music in Our Schools Month®. Read more»

Interest in AHA Surges; HS Students May Apply for Wait Pool

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels is enjoying a strong surge of interest from tristate area families. Registrations for the Class of 2025 reached capacity in February 2021, and prospective high school students are now being invited to apply for the wait pool. Read more»

February 2021

Holy Angels Scholars Named to Principal’s List & Honor Roll

Demarest, NJ: Numerous Academy of the Holy Angels students were named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll at the close of the second quarter of the 2020-2021 academic year. Angels who maintain an average of 95 or higher are named to the Principal’s List. Those with averages of 90 through 94 are named to the Honor Roll. AHA congratulates the recent honorees, who include the students listed here. Read more»

AHA Athletes & Coaches Show Their Spirit

Demarest, NJ: Coaches and athletes from the Academy of the Holy Angels are showcasing their skills and showing school spirit as they compete, despite pandemic related restrictions. Notably, the Academy’s varsity bowling team brought an undefeated record into late February, when they faced off against Westwood’s super strong squad. Read more»

AHA Teens Honored for Carrying on SSND’s Legacy of Kindness

Demarest, NJ: Holy Angels students who carry on School Sister of Notre Dame Catherine Green’s legacy of kindness regularly receive the award named for this veteran educator. S. Catherine was a member of the AHA Religious Studies Department from 1982 to 2014. She is warmly remembered for her ready smile, her willingness to listen, and her words of support and encouragement. Read more»

Academy’s Long-term Faculty & Staff Members Honored at Liturgy

Demarest, NJ: Catholic Schools Week officially came to a close at a February 10 liturgy that was livestreamed from the Kelleher Hall Chapel. Father Anthony Armstrong from Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Tenafly celebrated the Mass, which included recognition of long-term faculty and staff members. Read more»

Multiple AHA Musicians Enter Tri-M Honor Society

Demarest, NJ: Several fine Academy of the Holy Angels musicians who exhibit scholarship, character, leadership, and service, are now members of the Modern Music Masters Honor Society. Tri-M Chapter 2150 opened its doors to 12 Angels at a virtual induction ceremony presented on February 9. Read more»

AHA Students Receive Honors at Harvard Model UN: Virtual Edition

Demarest, NJ: Patricia “Patsy” Coleman of New City, New York, and Marie Howard of Ridgewood distinguished themselves by earning Diplomatic Commendations at this year’s virtual Harvard Model United Nations Conference. These members of the Class of 2022 represented Mali with most of their teammates from the Academy of the Holy Angels. Read more»

AHA Recognizes Sister Nonna Dunphy Scholarship Finalists, Semifinalists

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels is pleased to announce the 2020-2021 Sister Nonna Dunphy Scholarship finalists and semifinalists. AHA President Melinda Hanlon shared the news at the Catholic Schools Week closing assembly. Read more»

AHA’s Brigid Miller Is Candidate in U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

Demarest, NJ: Brigid Miller of Pearl River, New York, has been invited to apply to the 2021 United States Presidential Scholars Program. Miller, a senior at the Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest, New Jersey, is one of 4,500 nominees chosen from the nation high school seniors. Read more»

AHA Artists Earn Recognition in Prestigious Competition

Demarest, NJ: Several fine artists who attend the Academy of the Holy Angels have received recognition in the regional Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. Two Angels earned Gold Keys, which unlock their opportunity to compete in the national event. Another Angel received a Silver Key, and multiple students took home Honorable Mentions. Read more»

AHA Earns AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels has received the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science A. AHA is one of just 232 schools that were recognized in the AP Computer Science A category. Honorees are closing the gender gap in AP Computer Science courses. Read more»

Diaper Drive Benefits Office of Concern Food Pantry’s Clients

Demarest, NJ: Families who face financial hurdles constantly make difficult decisions, including whether to buy basics such as diapers for their children. With an eye toward this forgotten need, the Academy of the Holy Angels hosted a Diaper Drive that netted nearly 4,000 diapers, 4,400 baby wipes, and a $100 donation for the Office of Concern. Read more»

AHA Writers Excel in Regional Competition; Tao Goes to Nationals

Demarest, NJ: Five wordsmiths from the Academy of the Holy Angels achieved accolades in the regional Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. AHA’s honorees include Gold Key winner Elise Tao and Silver Key winners Caitlin Brannigan and Natasha Dhanrajani. Isabella Dail, Gian Lee, Brannigan, and Tao also earned Honorable Mentions. Read more»

January 2021

Holy Angels Welcomes New Technology Director

Demarest, NJ: Nadeem Akhter, an experienced information technology specialist, has joined the Academy of the Holy Angels as director of technology. Akhter succeeds Theresa Young, who held the post since January 2019. Read more»

AHA Hosts ‘Drive-Thru’ Celebration for the Class of 2025

Demarest, NJ: A special drive-thru celebration allowed members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Class of 2025 to enjoy a warm welcome to the school on a frosty January day. AHA Admissions Director Michèle McGovern and Assistant Director Jennifer Bullis organized the COVID conscious event so future Angels and their families could drive up to the front of the school and leave with greetings and gifts. Read more»

Musical AHA Alumna Sings with Penn State’s ‘None of the Above’

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels alumna Leah Sanchez (AHA ’20) recently landed a role with None of the Above, an a cappella ensemble at Penn State University. Read more»

Danielle Holmes Is AHA’s first Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Demarest, NJ: Danielle Holmes has been named the Academy of the Holy Angels’ first director of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Holmes, a member of AHA’s Class of 2003, will return to her alma mater on Monday, February 1, 2021. Read more»

AHA Students Join Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society

Demarest, NJ: Thirty-nine members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Class of 2021 have been inducted into the Alice Paul Chapter of the Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society. Rho Kappa refers to head and hand, a reminder that knowledge must be accompanied by service. In fact, inductees must demonstrate excellence in social studies and a commitment to serving others. Read more»

AHA Freshman & Friends Craft Over 400 Masks for Hospital Staff

Demarest, NJ: Prior to the pandemic, few people would have mentioned sewing as a key life-saving skill, but times have changed. Just ask Academy of the Holy Angels freshman Georgette “Gigi” Ochs and her childhood friends, sisters Paloma and Giuliana Di Geronimo, all of whom spent the last year sewing over 400 protective face masks for staff at Lenox Hill Hospital. Read more»

Holy Angels Musicians Release 2021 Epiphany Concert

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels released its first Epiphany Concert video on January 6, 2021. Members of the public are invited to enjoy the concert, which AHA President Melinda Hanlon described as “a beautiful and collaborative effort.” Read more»

Entomologist Discovered Her Interest in Insects at AHA

Demarest, NJ: Sabrina Celis has an insatiable interest in insects that she uncovered in her honors biology course at the Academy of the Holy Angels.  Read more»

Get to Know AHA Middle School Dean Traci Koval

Demarest, NJ: Dean Traci Koval will take the helm of the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School this September, as AHA renews its tradition of serving students in Grades 6-8. In a recent interview, Koval, an experienced Catholic and charter school educator, provided a preview of the benefits AHA Middle School will offer young women. Read more»

Coming This September: Prep for Success at AHA Middle School

Demarest, NJ: Starting in September 2021, young women in Grades 6, 7, and 8 will prep for success at the Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School. The middle school, which renews AHA’s tradition of educating young girls, will be located on the first floor of Kelleher Hall. Read more»

December 2020

AHA’s Christmas Music Video Highlights the Best of Tri-M & JOY

Demarest, NJ: Students from the Academy of the Holy Angels have released a Christmas music video. Members of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and Joining Old & Young produced the virtual concert for local senior citizens and the School Sisters of Notre Dame, AHA’s foundresses and sponsors. Read more»

AHA Students Attend Virtual Teen Hunger Summit

Demarest, NJ: Those who attended the 2020 Virtual Teen Hunger Summit walked away with a better understanding of food insecurity, and ideas to effect meaningful social change. This annual conference is a collaboration between the Community FoodBank of New Jersey and Seton Hall Prep. Read more»

Vocalists Share Their Talents & Joy in ‘Mary Did You Know?’ Video

Demarest, NJ: One warm afternoon in October, several members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Vocal Ensemble seized the opportunity to make a video of themselves singing “Mary Did You Know?” The vocalists wore protective masks and practiced social distancing as they harmonized outdoors. Choir Managers Nora Jacobi and Julia Fernandez edited the piece and released the video this month as a tribute. Read more»

AHA Students Share the Spirit of Saint Nicholas

Demarest, NJ: When the Holy Angels Student Council realized their Saint Nicholas Day visit to Saint Peter the Apostle School had been canceled, these innovative teens developed COVID-safe ways to celebrate the season. AHA students produced videos of themselves reading Christmas stories, and sent them to the Philadelphia school with a digital Advent calendar that plays a brief video every day leading up to Christmas. Read more»

AHA’s Chelsie Lim Earns YoungArts Foundation’s Highest Honor

Demarest, NJ: Chelsie Lim’s commitment to mastering the cello has earned her the top award from the National YoungArts Foundation. Read more»

Chang & Noble Are AHA’s NJ Scholars Program Nominees

Demarest, NJ: Cara Chang of Fort Lee and Josephine Noble of Demarest have been named the Academy of the Holy Angels’ nominees to the 2021 New Jersey Scholars Program. The nominees, both of whom are members of the Class of 2022, will now complete their NJSP applications, which include a series of essays, a research paper, a summary of their achievements, and personal recommendations. Read more»

AHA Alumna Shares an Insider’s View of Georgetown

Demarest, NJ: In-person college tours may be on pause during the pandemic, but prospective students can still get a feel for their target schools by speaking with a knowledgeable insider. This month, Academy of the Holy Angels alumna Kirsten Garino (AHA ’19) offered a student’s view of Georgetown for a dozen current Angels. The virtual meeting was organized by AHA Office of Academic and College Counseling Director Rachel Jackiewicz. Read more»

AHA Tennis Standout Brooke Hess Wins First Team All-State & First Team All-Non-Public Honors

Demarest, NJ: Varsity tennis player Brooke Hess has been named First Team All-State and First Team All-Non-Public. Hess, who resides in Cedar Grove, is a member of the Class of 2022 at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Read more»

Angels on the Move Virtual 5K Unites School Community

Demarest, NJ: Hosting community events is a challenge these days, so the Academy of the Holy Angels brought everyone together with a virtual 5K. AHA Physical Education and Health Department Chair Tara Nordsvan developed the fitness and unity initiative that became Angels on the Move. Read more»

AHA Students Named to Principal’s List & Honor Roll

Demarest, NJ: Multiple students from the Academy of the Holy Angels have been named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll for maintaining excellent grade point averages through the first quarter of the 2020-21 academic year. Students who attain an average of 95 or higher are named to the Principal’s List. Those with an average of 90 to 94 are named to the Honor Roll. Read more»

November 2020

Master Gardener Shares Composting Tips with AHA Green Action Team

Demarest, NJ: Master Gardener Jane Egan recently shared her extensive knowledge of composting with the Green Action Team from the Academy of the Holy Angels. Egan manages two Passaic County community gardens, and heads local composting and sustainability initiatives as a leader of her hometown’s Green Team.. Read more»

AHA Senior Enhances Children’s STEM Engagement via ‘Robotic Seeds’

Demarest, NJ: Life’s most difficult moments can give rise to inspired innovations like Robotic Seeds. Founder Emily Nam, a senior at the Academy of the Holy Angels, uses her nonprofit to provide underprivileged elementary school students with access to do-it-yourself robotics sets. In less than one year, this Cresskill teen raised $4,661 to enrich science education at Henderson Mill Elementary School, a Title 1 STEM-certified school in Atlanta, Georgia. Read more»

AHA Sophomores Take Closer Look at the Face of Hunger

Demarest, NJ: The Class of 2023 at the Academy of the Holy Angels took an in-depth look at the face of hunger during this fall’s sophomore retreat. Read more»

Costanza & Goyal Named AHA’s HOBY Reps; McMahon Is Alternate

Demarest, NJ: Ava Goyal of Montclair and Grace Costanza of Clifton have been chosen to represent the Academy of the Holy Angels at the 2021 Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference. Isabella McMahon of West Orange is this year’s alternate. Read more»

AHA Theater Department to Present Live Radio Dramas Via Zoom

Demarest, NJ: Listen carefully this weekend as the award-winning Academy of the Holy Angels Theater Department presents three classic radio dramas live via Zoom. Each 90-minute show will include Candy Matson, P.I. -- “The Cable Car Murder,” The Shadow – “The Face of Death,” The Adventures of Superman – “The Silver Clipper,” and two commercial breaks. Tune in at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, November 13 and 14, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 15. Read more»

AHA Chemistry Teacher Receives STEM Grant to Enhance Her Students’ Classroom Experience

Demarest, NJ: Chemistry students at the Academy of the Holy Angels will be tracking their acid/base titration experiments in real time thanks to a $1,000 STEM grant from Orange & Rockland Utilities. Chemistry teacher Sharon Jureller wrote the successful grant proposal, which will cover the cost of pH meters and computer interfaces. Read more»

October 2020

AHA Presents ‘Parenting During a Pandemic’ with Diane Lang

Demarest, NJ: Spend an evening with certified life coach, therapist, and author Diane Lang as she presents her timely webinar, “Parenting During a Pandemic,” Monday, November 16 at 7 p.m. This special session is being hosted by the Academy of the Holy Angels Parents’ Guild. Read more»

AHA Announces National Merit® Semifinalist, Commended Students

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels is pleased to announce that nine members of the Class of 2021 have received national recognition in the 65th Annual National Merit® Scholarship Program. Students are honored for their performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test. Read more»

AHA Soccer Team Hosts ‘A Cure Worth Shooting For’

Demarest, NJ: Every October, the Academy of the Holy Angels Varsity Soccer Team hosts a special match in memory of beloved business and technology teacher Karen Sullivan Camporeale. The game is held during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to honor Camporeale’s valiant battle with the disease. At the time of her passing in May 2018, Camporeale (AHA ’88) was president of the AHA Alumnae Association. Read more»

AHA Violinist Performs ‘Dream Piece’ at Philadelphia International Music Festival’s Virtual Master Class

Demarest, NJ: Nayoun Kim realized a childhood dream when she performed Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D major at The Philadelphia International Music Festival’s October virtual master class. Read more»

AHA Commemorates 187th Anniversary of the School Sisters of Notre Dame

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels recently commemorated the 187th anniversary of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, AHA’s foundresses and sponsors. The Academy hosted a morning prayer service that included the traditional renewal of vows by several SSNDs. Read more»

Virtual Art Auction to Benefit Academic Programs at AHA

Demarest, NJ: Experience an evening of excitement right from home: On Saturday, November 7, the Academy of the Holy Angels will host its first-ever Virtual Art Auction. Guests who are age 18 and up may log in at 7 p.m. for the opportunity to bid on a variety of artworks at all price points offered by Marlin Art. Proceeds will benefit AHA’s academic programs. Read more»

World Smile Day Event Raises Awareness for Operation Smile

Demarest, NJ: At the Academy of the Holy Angels, World Smile Day is not just about that iconic yellow smiley face. Each year, students from the Academy use the first Friday in October to promote Operation Smile, a global non-profit that provides free corrective surgeries for individuals with cleft lip and palate. Read more»

Teen Uses Gayageum to Bring Clean Water to African Communities

Demarest, NJ: Gayageum player Erin Choi is doing her part to bring clean water to communities in Africa. Choi and her ensemble, GEMiNY (Gayageum Ensemble Music in New York) recently played at a benefit concert in College Point, New York, that raised over $5,000 for Good Neighbors USA. Read more»

On-campus Tours of AHA Deliver Authentic Experience

Demarest, NJ: When choosing a school, online research is valuable, but in-person tours are invaluable. With this in mind, the Academy of the Holy Angels Admissions Team has added an on-campus tour option for Wednesday, October 28. Please note: Tours of the 25-acre campus at 315 Hillside Avenue in Demarest will be offered to students who now attend eighth grade. Read more»

AHA Senior Publishes ‘Lost Words,’ a Volume of Her Original Poetry

Demarest, NJ: Kaya Simmons just published her first book, “Lost Words,” a collection of her original poems, some of which she wrote before entering her senior year at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Read more»

Families Appreciate Virtual & In-person Elements of AHA’s Open House

Demarest, NJ: Each school has a distinct personality that is easily sensed during an in-person campus visit. With this in mind, the Academy of the Holy Angels organized COVID-safe walking tours as part of a “hybrid” Fall Open House on Sunday, October 4. The day also included a series of online presentations. Read more»

September 2020

Holy Angels Students Teach American Sign Language, Deaf Culture

Demarest, NJ: Two Academy of the Holy Angels students who connected over their lifelong interest in American Sign Language recently established “Sign with Gabi and Shiv.” Sophomores Gabriella Callaghan of Nanuet, New York, and Shivani Sahu of Paramus founded their non-profit as platform to educate people about ASL and deaf culture. Together, the students launched an Instagram account (@sign_with_gabi_and_shiv) where they post tutorials, current events in the deaf community, and fun facts. They plan to expand by offering ASL livestreams. Read more»

Teen Launches Scripts of Love to Assist Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Demarest, NJ: When Isabela Presti saw that a relative became distressed after receiving a prescription for a new, life-changing Cystic Fibrosis medication, she asked why. She learned that only a fraction of CF patients around the world would have access to the new treatment, and founded Scripts of Love to help improve these individuals’ lives. Read more»

Students Found Synthesis Publications as a Voice of Their Generation

Demarest, NJ: Every generation has a unique perspective, and the talented teens who drive Synthesis Publications are bringing their fresh, young voices to a global audience. Enter Synthesis Publications Editor-in-Chief Elise Tao, an Academy of the Holy Angels freshman from Upper Saddle River, and SP Art Director Lily Gee, an AHA freshman from Englewood. Read more»

Bergen Violinist Accepted to New York Youth Symphony

Demarest, NJ: Violinist Faith Youn experienced a split second of disbelief when she learned she had been accepted to the New York Youth Symphony, but no one who has heard her expressive music would have doubted her success. Once this Academy of the Holy Angels sophomore processed the news, she was overwhelmed with happiness. Read more»

Student with Family from Beirut Establishes ‘Painting for Lebanon’

Demarest, NJ: Teen artist Natalia Antaki has family in Beirut, so she was moved to action when a series of warehouse explosions rocked Lebanon’s capital city on August 4. The Academy of the Holy Angels sophomore established paintingforlebanon and began to promote her project on Instagram. Read more»

AHA Welcomes New Faculty; Acknowledges Retirements

Demarest, NJ: This September, the Academy of the Holy Angels recognized the retirements of Sister Kathleen Dunham, SSND, and Sister Diane Driscoll, SSJ. Both women have spent the past five decades as educators. At the same time, the Academy’s administration welcomed Donna Ryan, AnneMarie Ryan, Brianne Wolman, Frank Hunter, Andréa Palacio, and Jessica Santulli.. Read more»

Enjoy Coffee & Conversation with the AHA Admissions Team

Demarest, NJ: Enjoy an online Coffee & Conversation session with the Academy of the Holy Angels Admissions Team. Admissions Director Michèle McGovern and Admissions Associate Jennifer Bullis will spill the (coffee) beans on selected Thursday mornings from September 24 through November 19. Read more»

AHA Works to Bolster Cultural Proficiency; Self-study Launched

Demarest, NJ: The Holy Angels community is working to improve cultural proficiency, and has launched a related Middle States-approved self-study. The ability to respect and honor the cultural, economic, religious, racial, and gender identification of others aligns with the Academy’s mission to educate young women who recognize the dignity of all persons and promote justice and peace. Read more»

AHA Takes Hybrid Approach to October 4 Virtual Open House

Demarest, NJ: Open House, the Academy of the Holy Angels’ premier fall event, is scheduled for Sunday, October 4. Prospective Angels in all grades and their families are invited to the AHA Virtual Open House. The AHA Admissions Team’s information-packed program will begin at 4 p.m., and includes “Virtually Everything You Need to Know about AHA.” Read more»

Summer 2020

Holy Angels Reopens with Hybrid Instructional Model

Demarest, NJ: After many months of collaboration with a special task force, the Academy of the Holy Angels’ administration opted to reopen the campus on September 9. The Academy’s new hybrid instructional model blends in school and at-home learning to emphasize COVID-19 health and safety measures and maximize student engagement. Read more»

Three AHA Seniors Audition for Collegiate Dance Teams

Demarest, NJ: Recruiters who seek exceptional dancers for collegiate teams have their eye on the Academy of the Holy Angels, winner of four consecutive national titles. This summer, AHA seniors Carmela Alessio of Belleville, Kaitlyn Grifonetti of Old Tappan, and Natasha Vafiadis of Englewood showcased their talents by participating in the virtual 2020 College Dance Team Combine. Read more»

Rising Junior Welcomed into National Society of High School Scholars

Demarest, NJ: Natasha Dhanrajani, a rising junior at the Academy of the Holy Angels, has earned lifetime membership in the National Society of High School Scholars. This Bardonia, New York, resident joins approximately 1,500,000 NSHSS members who reside in over 170 countries worldwide (source: www.nshss.org). "I am honored to have been selected to join this prestigious society, and I am excited to participate in the various activities offered alongside other members nationwide," said Dhanrajani. Read more»

Holy Angels Hosts Summer Ceremony for 140th Graduating Class

Demarest, NJ: On the sultry, sunny morning of July 28, the Academy of the Holy Angels hosted an in-person graduation for the 124 members of the Class of 2020. The Academy’s 140th graduation exercises, held on the Demarest campus, were the realization of many months of cautious planning set in motion by the COVID-19 pandemic. Those in attendance were reminded to wear their masks and adhere to prescribed social distancing measures. Read more»

June 2020

AHA Vocalists Record Hymn Sending Message of Hope & Harmony

Demarest, NJ: Several members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Vocal Ensemble are striking a chord for social justice, hope, and harmony with their rendition of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” AHA Choral Director Lisa Marciano and her a cappella group had been practicing this hymn in preparation for the Academy’s spring concert. This event, like many others, was canceled when the campus was closed due to COVID-19 health concerns. Read more»

Holy Angels Students Bring Music & Meals to Senior Residences

Demarest, NJ: Over the past few months, Academy of the Holy Angels students who reside in Rockland County, New York, have been providing hearty meals and sweet music to local senior citizens and health care workers. Just before Saint Patrick’s Day, Holy Angels sophomore Patricia “Patsy” Coleman arranged to send a video of herself singing “Too Ra Loo Ra Loo Ral” to the seniors at Tappan Zee Manor assisted living facility in Nyack. Read more»

Traci Koval Named Interim Dean of Students at Holy Angels

Demarest, NJ: Educator Traci Koval has been named interim dean of students at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Koval will step in for Dean Andréa Beyer, who will be on leave beginning July 1, 2020. “Traci brings many years of experience in Catholic and charter schools as a dean. I hope you will join me in welcoming her to the AHA community,” AHA President Melinda Hanlon said in an official statement.  Read more»

Cooper Earns Angel Award as AHA Recognizes Top Athletes

Demarest, NJ: In a year when several Holy Angels seniors could have received the prestigious Angel Award in athletics, varsity athlete Baylee-Rose Cooper of Saddle Brook walked away with the win. Cooper was honored for her notable contributions to the varsity volleyball, bowling, and lacrosse programs, and for her exceptional spirit. Read more»

Angels Who Excel on Stage & Behind Scenes Join Thespian Honor Society

Demarest, NJ: Multiple students who give their all to the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Theater Department are now members of the Thespian Honor Society. Inductees include Angels who appear on stage and those who handle a number of responsibilities behind the scenes. Read more»

‘Angel Aid’ Auction to Benefit AHA Tuition Assistance Fund

Demarest, NJ: Power the flight of an Angel by participating in this month’s Angel Aid online auction! Proceeds from this age 21+ event will benefit the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Tuition Assistance Fund, which was established to aid AHA families who are facing health issues, job loss, and economic difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more»

Bergen Writer Finishes First in Statewide Competition

Demarest, NJ: Caitlin Brannigan of Hillsdale has earned the New Jersey Governor's Award in Arts Education for her short story, "Calamity of Freedom." She advanced to the Governor’s competition after finishing in first place in the contest sponsored by the New Jersey Council of Teachers of English. Read more»

April 2020

Knitters’ Outreach Includes Handmade Hearts for Health Care Workers

Demarest, NJ: A few months ago, four friends who like to knit founded Knitting for Life and began to contribute their handmade baby hats and booties to the neonatal intensive care unit at a Bergen County hospital. While this outreach project had to be shelved during the COVID-19 outbreak, the teens continue to bring cheer to others by delivering handmade hearts and handwritten letters of gratitude to dedicated health care workers. Read more»

National Art Honor Society Inductees Welcomed at Virtual Ceremony

Demarest, NJ: Outstanding student artists from the Academy of the Holy Angels were inducted into the National Art Honor Society at a virtual ceremony held on April 23. AHA art teacher Kathryn Biskup created a PowerPoint presentation to facilitate the online event.  Read more»

Saint Elizabeth Church Hosts Virtual Grandparents’ Day for AHA

Demarest, NJ: COVID-19 necessitated a virtual version of the Academy of the Holy Angels’ traditional Grandparents’ Day Mass, and Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Wyckoff graciously agreed to host the event. Mass was organized by AHA Campus Ministry and was livestreamed on Wednesday, April 22, 2020.  Read more»

Marathon Women: AHA Athletes Have What it Takes to Hit 26.2 Miles

Demarest, NJ: Three seasoned runners from the Academy of the Holy Angels have finished a total of 16 marathons. They are not students. The women in question, and the number of marathons they have run, are AHA Social Worker S. Mary Foley, SSND, two; AHA track coach Megan Dippolito, six; and AHA business teacher Krystal Hermanns, eight.  Read more»

Holy Angels Student Contributes to Study of Changing Sea Levels

Demarest, NJ: Liliette Quintana is getting an early start on her college science courses by serving as an intern at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Science Observatory. This member of the Academy of the Holy Angels Class of 2020 has been working with a team that is studying a 12,000-year-old, sand-covered peat bog in the Atlantic Ocean, off Long Island’s coast. The team is researching sediment cores to determine previous sea levels and climate conditions. Read more»

AHA’s First Online Information Session Draws Engaged Participants

Demarest, NJ: Sixty-one guests participated in the Academy of the Holy Angels’ first webinar, “Virtually Everything You Need to Know about AHA.” Prospective Angels and their families learned how AHA educates women who are ready to lead and succeed in today’s global economy, and had many of their questions answered – all from the comfort of their own homes.. Read more»

Students Celebrate International Week with AHA Spirit

Demarest, NJ: Student leaders from the Academy of the Holy Angels collaborated to ensure that everyone would enjoy International Week (March 30 through April 3) as distance learning continued. Each day, members of the Academy’s various cultural societies contributed to school-wide emails that contained cultural trivia questions, playlists, and recipes. Read more»

All-County Athletes Receive Video Tribute from Coaches Association

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels’ senior track stars Maris Rodriguez and Nicole Barbaro were recognized in a video tribute organized by the Bergen County Women Coaches Association. The video was produced in lieu of the annual awards dinner, which cannot be held while COVID-19 social distancing and self-quarantine measures remain in place. Read more»

AHA Sets Information Session: ‘Virtually Everything You Need to Know’

Demarest, NJ: Prospective Angels and their families are invited to the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Online Information Session: “Virtually Everything You Need to Know.” Guests will log in this Wednesday, April 8, from 7 to 8 p.m. Register in advance for this webinar at: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3n4HjXgjQQyi5hm_ajgGmw Read more»

AHA Launches ‘Virtual Food Drive’ to Continue Outreach Efforts

Demarest, NJ: Serving others is a challenge while social distancing and self-quarantine against COVID-19 are in effect, so the Academy of the Holy Angels initiated a virtual food drive. If distance learning could succeed, why not a virtual service project? Read more»

March 2020

AHA Maintains Community & Continuity as Distance Learning Begins

Demarest, NJ: Growth mindset is a lifestyle at Holy Angels, where the Academy’s community of active problem-solvers quickly smoothed the transition from classrooms to distance learning. While the world self-quarantines to halt COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), AHA’s teachers, students, and technology team are sharing tips for success, and getting creative as they maintain educational continuity. Many activities are still taking place, albeit in new ways. Read more»

Teens Experiment with Medical & Engineering Careers

Demarest, NJ: Selected female high school students recently spent a day at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, where they experimented with careers in medicine and engineering. Academy of the Holy Angels juniors who were invited to attended the Perry Outreach Program include Ariana Layne of Upper Saddle River; Brigid Miller and Dylan Vonderhorst of Pearl River, New York; Alana Pomponio of Nutley; and Emma DeMarco of South Nyack, New York. Read more»

Grant Funds Enrichment Opportunity for Holy Angels Students

Demarest, NJ: World language students from the Academy of the Holy Angels spent an enriching day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art thanks to the Latin Resource Grant secured by Mrs. Lilah Katz. Katz, who teaches Latin at AHA, obtained the $600 award from the Classical Association of the Atlantic States, Inc. Funds covered transportation and museum admission. Read more»

Holy Angels Community Considers ‘Who Is My Neighbor?’

Demarest, NJ: On Awareness Day 2020, the Holy Angels community took time to examine immigration by considering “Who Is My Neighbor?” AHA Director of Mission and Ministry Joan Connelly organized this look at Catholic social teaching. Alumnae, faculty, students, and guests presented a host of workshops that promoted greater understanding of complex immigration issues and the concept of global community. Read more»

DECA Gains Ground in State; Shea Invited to Compete at Nationals

Demarest, NJ: Business-minded teens from the Academy of the Holy Angels recently competed at the DECA State Championship in Atlantic City, where team members earned multiple awards. The top honor went to Catherine Shea, who became AHA’s first DECA member to qualify for the national event in Nashville, Tennessee. Read more»

Music in Our Schools Month® Celebration Underway at AHA

Demarest, NJ: It’s Music in Our Schools Month® at the Academy of the Holy Angels! AHA’s gifted student musicians started their serendipitous serenades on March 2, and will continue their random acts of music through the final day of the month. Read more»

Science & Math Scholars Welcomed into National Honor Societies

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels scholars who display outstanding work in mathematics and the sciences have been invited to join Mu Alpha Theta and the Science National Honor Society. In fact, several students are now members of both organizations. All of these young women demonstrate the positive results of AHA’s award-winning STREAM curriculum, which emphasizes science, technology, religion, engineering art, and math. Read more»

AHA’s Inaugural ‘Leadership as Gift’ Seminar Draws to a Close

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels’ inaugural “Invitation to Leadership as Gift” seminar drew to a close this month. During the final session, Sister Kathleen Cornell, SSND, asked her students to reflect on their personal leadership styles. Read more»

Open House: See How AHA Has Empowered Women for 140 Years

Demarest, NJ: Spend an evening at Holy Angels’ March 31st Open House and discover how this esteemed Catholic girls’ high school founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame has been empowering women leaders for 140 years. Prospective students and their families are welcome to arrive on campus, 315 Hillside Avenue in Demarest, at 6:00 p.m. The evening will include guided tours, demos, and more. Please visit https://www.holyangels.org/admissions/open-house to register. Read more»

Debutante Jasmin Prophete Envisions Future as Global Leader

Demarest, NJ: Holy Angels senior and budding activist Jasmin Prophete has officially been introduced to society at the Emerald & Ivory Cotillion, the culmination of the Debutante Leadership Program. Sponsored by the Essex County Chapter of The Links, Inc., this program welcomes outstanding high school juniors and seniors who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to service. Read more»

February 2020

Students Come Face to Face with Life at the Arizona Border

Demarest, NJ: Life-altering awakenings occur each time Holy Angels students participate in the Mission Awareness Process journey to Arizona and Mexico. During winter break, Religious Studies Department Chair Carol Fay, Spanish language teacher Carmen Quiñones, Laura Carbo, Valeria Gonzalez, and Julia Swearer made the trip to learn about the realities of life at the border and the support offered by the School Sisters of Notre Dame. Read more»

Capital Campaign Supports Leadership Opportunities for Angels

Demarest, NJ: Over the past 140 years, the Academy of the Holy Angels has forged a sterling reputation for educating and empowering women leaders. The Academy’s consistently strong enrollment remains Holy Angels’ most noticeable endorsement. This year, AHA will move forward with Phase II of its Capital Campaign, a $3.5 million plan that will focus on the school auditorium and music wing. Read more»

Just for Seventh Graders: ‘Angel for the Day Junior’ Introduced

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels has launched “Angel for the Day Junior,” a mini-program expressly designed for seventh graders. AFD Junior visitors attend a class with a current Angel, participate in “ice breaker” activities, and enjoy lunch prepared by AHA’s chef. Our Angels recommend the freshly-baked cookies for dessert. Read more»

Holy Angels Students Named to Principal’s List, Honor Roll

Demarest, NJ: Multiple students from the Academy of the Holy Angels have been named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll for maintaining excellent grade point averages through the second quarter of the 2019-20 academic year. AHA Principal Jean Miller extended her congratulations to all students who achieved personal academic goals during the quarter, including those who may have missed the Honor Roll by a slim margin. Read more»

Three AHA Writers Earn Recognition, Publication

Demarest, NJ: Writers Isabella Dail of Saddle River, Natasha Dhanrajani of Bardonia (NY), and Gian Lee of Englewood Cliffs have garnered regional accolades in the 2020 Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. These members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Class of 2022 received attention for poetry, essays, and a script. In addition, Dhanrajani just had her fourth piece published in “Scrawl,” a compilation of juried submissions from Rockland County residents. Read more»

NJ Regiment Sends Signed 50-Star Field to Supporters at AHA

Demarest, NJ: A simple care package can mean the world to a soldier serving far from home. Members of the 114th Infantry of the New Jersey Army National Guard were so grateful for the support they received from the Academy of the Holy Angels that they responded by sending a 50-star field panel made by Annin Flagmakers. The field was signed by the regiment while they were serving in Qatar in 2019. Read more»

AHA Students Gain Early Acceptances, $10.3 Million in Scholarships

Demarest, NJ: Early acceptances and scholarship offers have begun to arrive for the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Class of 2020. To date, 68 percent of Academy’s seniors have been accepted to their first-choice colleges and universities. In addition, these Angels have earned an aggregate of $10.3 million in scholarships in recognition of their achievements in academics, service, and athletics. Read more»  

AHA’s Model UN Group Earns Honors at Harvard

Demarest, NJ: In a year when competition at the Harvard Model UN was at its most intense, the members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Model UN team showed their strength, and brought home two well-deserved awards. Katherine Gazzini of Ridgewood earned Honorable Mention in her committee, and Shannon Dobres of Bergenfield won the Diplomatic Commendation Award. Both students are Holy Angels seniors who were making their final trip to the Boston-based event. Read more» 

AHA Welcomes the Class of 2024 to Accepted Students Night

Demarest, NJ: The Class of 2024 is ready to fly! Well over 200 future freshmen were invited to this month’s Accepted Students Night at the Academy of the Holy Angels. This well-attended event included dinner for students and their families, community-building activities for the students, and important information about life at Holy Angels. Read more» 

Teen Music Masters Enter AHA’s Tri-M Chapter

Demarest, NJ: Membership in Tri-M, the Modern Music Masters Honor Society, is rapidly increasing at the Academy of the Holy Angels. This month, AHA Tri-M Chapter 2150 inducted multiple Angels in recognition of their musical accomplishments, scholarship, character, leadership, and service. The 2020 honorees include vocalists, and instrumental musicians who have dedicated themselves to musical instruments that range from the handbells, piano, viola, and bass to bassoon, alto saxophone, violin, and piano. Read more» 

AHA Academic Dean Francesca Tambone-Puzio to Be Inducted into Bergen Catholic Hall of Fame

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels is delighted to announce that AHA Academic Dean Francesca Tambone-Puzio will be inducted into the Bergen Catholic High School Hall of Fame. The 5:30 p.m. ceremony will be held at Seasons in Washington Township on Sunday, March 29. Visit bergencatholic.org for tickets and event details. Read more» 

January 2020

AHA Students Have Kindness in Common

Demarest, NJ: Julia Farah, Julia Fernandez, Hannah Glaser, and Jennifer Haemmerle have something very special in common. They just received the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award from the Academy of the Holy Angels. Read more» 

AHA Artists Earn Regional Honors; Two Move on to National Event

Demarest, NJ: Fifteen Academy of the Holy Angels artists have earned recognition in the regional level of the 2020 Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. Read more»

AHA Surgical Research Students Visit Premier Lab at Columbia

Demarest, NJ: When you meet a high school senior, you might not think she has experience in microsurgery, unless she attends the Academy of the Holy Angels. This month, AHA seniors Shannon Dobres of Bergenfield, Isabella Cardamone of Glen Rock, Amelia Brunda of Paramus, and Sarah Folk of Old Tappan completed the Englewood Health High School Surgical Research Program offered through the Academy’s partnership with Englewood Health. Read more» 

Academy Has Exemplified Catholic Schools Week Theme for 140 Years

Demarest, NJ: Catholic Schools Week brightened the last days of January as the Academy of the Holy Angels, and schools across the nation, considered the 2020 theme: Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed. This theme aptly suits Holy Angels, which is marking 140 years of educating women leaders. Read more» 

Aspiring Actress Shares Insider’s Tips with Holy Angels Thespians

Demarest, NJ: Aspiring actress/director Ariela Pizza knows a few things about auditioning for musical theater roles. This month, the 2017 Academy of the Holy Angels graduate generously shared her insider’s tips with current AHA thespians.  Read more» 

Academy Welcomes Alumnae to College Angels Reunion

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels hosted alumnae from the Classes of 2016 through 2019 to its January 10 College Angels Reunion. Alumnae gathered in the Learning Commons to reconnect with friends, faculty, and staff. Read more»

AHA Freshman Is Concertmaster of Mannes Prep Symphony

Demarest, NJ: Music is an essential part of life for violinist Faith Youn of Closter, the new concertmaster of the Mannes Prep Symphony. Although Youn performs around the world, this unassuming Academy of the Holy Angels freshman described her selection as concertmaster as “the best surprise.” She noted that this was the first year Mannes held a blind seating audition. Read more»

Holy Angels Alumna Provides College Planning Advice to Juniors

Demarest, NJ: Isabelle Shea, a 2018 graduate of the Academy of the Holy Angels, recently shared her college planning tips with a group of AHA juniors. This alumna presentation, which was arranged by the AHA Office of Academic and College Counseling, covered the importance of maintaining contacts and working with mentors, ways to personalize a college application, the value of exploring your intended field before declaring your major, and more. Read more»

AHA Juniors Invited to Apply for Prestigious Summer Programs

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels juniors Suha Patel of Alpine and Sarah Onderdonk of Wyckoff have been invited to apply for the 2020 New Jersey Scholars Program, an educational enrichment opportunity for 39 students from the Garden State. Onderdonk was also invited to apply for the Governor’s School in Engineering and Technology. Read more»

December 2019

AHA Christmas Gala Makes the Season Bright

Demarest, NJ: Audience members at the Academy of the Holy Angels Christmas Gala enjoyed a sing-along led by a festive elf, and a rendition of “Here Comes Santa Claus” that encouraged an uninspired elf to get into the holiday spirit. Read more»

JOY Brings Two Holiday Concert Series to Area Senior Citizens

Demarest, NJ: This holiday season has been especially joyous for those senior citizens who were fortunate enough to hear the latest concert series presented by Joining Old and Young. These community minded singers from the Academy of the Holy Angels have been delighting audiences since the early 2000s. With accompaniment from pianist Suzanne Alenick, JOY spreads cheer and good will throughout the region. Read more»

Cellist Making Her Mark in Competition at Home and Abroad

Demarest, NJ: Cellist Chelsie Lim of Cresskill is making a name for herself on the national and international levels. The Academy of the Holy Angels sophomore recently earned a gold medal with high distinction in the young artist category of the Third Berliner International Music Competition. This fall, she received an honorable mention from the YoungArts Foundation, a non-profit that identifies accomplished teen artists and provides them with creative and professional development opportunities. As a 2020 honoree, Lim was invited to participate in YoungArts New York. Read more»

Students Gather to Recall the Giving Spirit of Saint Nicholas

Demarest, NJ: Gingerbread, candy canes, and a seasonal blessing made the Feast of Saint Nicholas a day several students will always remember. Each December, upperclassmen from the Academy of the Holy Angels travel to Philadelphia to spend the day with children from Saint Peter the Apostle School. Together, they decorate cookies and share smiles and candy. Read more»

AHA Alumna, Long-time Coach Honored at YMCA Sports Banquet

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels is pleased to announce that scholar-athlete Ashley Hess (AHA ’19) and AHA Cross-Country & Track Coach Howard Schuman were recognized at the YMCA of Bergen County’s 54th Annual Sports Banquet. Hess, who distinguished herself as one of the state’s top tennis players during her time at AHA, received the J. Barry Stanford Award. Schuman earned the Thomas L. Della Torre Special Achievement Award. Read more»

AHA Varsity Dancers Sparkle in Pom Competition

Demarest, NJ: The future appears bright for the incomparable Academy of the Holy Angels Varsity Dance Team. The defending national champions, who earned an incredible four consecutive titles in small varsity hip hop (2016 through 2019), recently returned from the 2019 DC Championship with a first place division win in varsity pom and the Best Choreography Award. Read more»

Musician Uses Gayageum to Help Others Appreciate Korean Culture

Demarest, NJ: Musician Erin Choi of Cliffside Park has a singular quest: She wants to connect people to Korean culture through the gayageum, a zither-like string instrument. Read more»

Holy Angels Honors Students with Top Averages

Demarest, NJ: Multiple students from the Academy of the Holy Angels have been named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll for maintaining excellent grade point averages through the first quarter of the 2019-20 academic year. Those who attain an average of 95 or higher are named to the Principal’s List. Angels with an average of 90 to 94 are named to the Honor Roll. The first quarter honorees are listed according to their hometowns. Read more»

November 2019

Holy Angels Community Gives Thanks for Kind Students

Demarest, NJ: When you need a helping hand, Angels appear. A few days before Thanksgiving, the Academy of the Holy Angels presented the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award to Micayla McMahon, Cara Chang, Catherine Callahan, and Jacqueline Rubino. Read more»

AHA Names 2020 HOBY Representatives and Alternate

Demarest, NJ: Katherine Day, Brooke Hess, and Ria Jani have been selected to represent the Academy of the Holy Angels at the June 2020 Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference. Natasha Dhanrajani was named this year’s alternate. All four Angels are members of the Class of 2022. Read more»

AHA Alumna Discusses the World of Biomedical Engineering

Demarest, NJ: Lisa Sesink-Clee, a 2013 graduate of the Academy of the Holy Angels, recently returned to her alma mater to share up-to-the-minute news about the world of biomedical engineering. Now a product development engineer for Stryker, this notable alumna spoke to students from Mrs. Jing Loo’s engineering class, detailing her work with joint replacement products. Read more» 

Seven Ink Letters of Intent, Shattering AHA’s Signing Day Record

Demarest, NJ: Seven members of the Holy Angels Class of 2020 set an Academy record November 18, when they became the largest group of AHA athletes to sign national letters of intent on the same day. AHA Athletic Director Patti Gorsuch welcomed numerous spectators to the ceremony, including family members, friends, and coaches. Read more» 

Student Musicians Perform at SSND Event in Connecticut

Demarest, NJ: Student musicians from the Academy of the Holy Angels carried on their tradition of performing at the School Sisters of Notre Dame’s Donor Recognition Luncheon. This annual event is held in Wilton, Connecticut. Each year, the performers receive a warm welcome from the SSNDs, who are AHA’s foundresses and sponsors. Read more» 

Rho Kappa Chapter Accepts New Members

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Angels seniors who demonstrate excellence in social studies and service to others have been accepted to the Alice Paul Chapter of the Rho Kappa National History Honor Society. Thirty-three Angels were honored at the induction ceremony, which was held November 12. Read more» 

DECA Team from Holy Angels Finishes First in State Competition

Demarest, NJ: Two business-minded juniors from the Academy of the Holy Angels have won the state level Distributive Education Clubs of America Virtual Business Challenge in hotel management. Tamara Kim of Demarest and Emily Nam of Cresskill spent nearly two weeks running the daily operations of a virtual hotel. Read more» 

Teen Violinist Competes in Germany

Demarest, NJ: The gift of a toy violin has made a tremendous difference in the life of Cresskill resident Nayoun Kim. For the last nine years, this Academy of the Holy Angels sophomore has been playing a full-sized violin with orchestras around the world. This fall, she joined musicians from 19 countries in the Louis Spohr International Violin Competition in Weimar, Germany. Read more» 

Triple Crown Winning Cross-Country Team Enters AHA Hall of Fame

Demarest, NJ: Ten years ago, a group of athletes from the Academy of Holy Angels enjoyed incredible success, earning a triple crown and cementing their reputation as one of Bergen County’s top five all-time cross-country teams. This month, this special team entered the AHA Athletic Hall of Fame. The ceremony was held at the AHA Parents’ Athletic Association’s November 2nd Beefsteak Dinner. Read more» 

AHA Senior LEADs the Way with Pitch for Anti-ballistic Garments

Demarest, NJ: Remember her name: Meredith Joseph is a rising star. A senior at the Academy of the Holy Angels, Joseph and her two teammates developed the concept for Armur, an apparel corporation that makes lightweight anti-ballistic undergarments Read more» 

Teens Enjoy the Ancient Art of Embroidery While Building Friendships

Demarest, NJ: A new generation is discovering the ancient art of embroidery without leaving their studio at the Academy of the Holy Angels. With direction from art teacher Christine DeGennaro, the Embroidery Club stitches representational and abstract designs that feature color, texture, and pattern. Read more» 

Newsweek Recognizes Holy Angels as Top STEM High School

Demarest, NJ: On National STEM Day (November 8), the Academy of the Holy Angels will officially be recognized as one of Newsweek’s Top STEM High Schools. Read more» 

Esteemed Performing Artist & Theater Director Enters Hall of Fame

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels alumna Katie McSherry Collins was inducted into the AHA Fine & Performing Arts Hall of Fame on Alumnae Weekend 2019. Read more» 

Leadership Expert Presents Seminar for Teens at Holy Angels

Demarest, NJ: Sister Kathleen Cornell, a School Sister of Notre Dame, has spent a lifetime leading others as a teacher, principal, college administrator and faculty member, and as provincial leader of the SSND’s Atlantic-Midwest Province. This fall, S. Kathleen is sharing her expertise with students from the Academy of the Holy Angels through her eight-week seminar, “Invitation to Leadership as Gift.” Read more» 

October 2019

Foundation Day Festivities Celebrate SSND Heritage

Demarest, NJ: October is a month of celebrations at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Events begin with the Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels in early October, and end with Foundation Day, the anniversary of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, who established AHA 140 years ago. Read more» 

Angels Receive Scholarships on Foundation Day

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels recognized multiple scholarship recipients during the October 25th Foundation Day celebration. This festive event marked the 186th anniversary of the establishment of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, AHA’s foundresses and sponsors. Read more» 

Holy Angels Recognizes Commended & National Hispanic Scholars

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels recently recognized several members of the Class of 2020 who earned national recognition for their excellent performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test. Read more» 

Students from Holy Angels Attend International Day of the Girl

Demarest, NJ: Over 40 students from the Academy of the Holy Angels visited the United Nations on the Eighth Annual International Day of the Girl. Sister Beatriz Martinez-Garcia, SSND, director of the School Sisters of Notre Dame’s United Nations Non-governmental Organization Office, arranged for AHA students to attend this special event in New York City. Read more» 

Holy Angels Unveils Five New Achievement Awards

Demarest, NJ: Incoming freshmen at the Academy of the Holy Angels now have the opportunity to apply for five new achievement awards, each of which includes a $2,500 stipend. AHA Admissions Director Michèle McGovern, who announced the awards at the October Open House, noted that these scholarships were established to encourage members of the Class of 2024 to develop their talents in the areas of leadership, spirituality and service, fine arts, instrumental music, and vocal music. Read more» 

Flapjack Fundraiser to Benefit AHA’s Operation Smile Club

Demarest, NJ: Have a hearty hot breakfast at Applebee’s on Sunday, November 17, and help someone receive free corrective surgery for cleft lip or cleft palate. Students from the Operation Smile Club at the Academy Holy Angels invite everyone to this Flapjack Fundraiser, which will have life-changing consequences for patients across the globe. Read more» 

Tempers Flare in Classic Courtroom Drama, ‘12 Angry Jurors’

Demarest, NJ: It is possible for a dozen diverse individuals to set aside their biases and decide the fate of a teen accused of murder? Watch this tempestuous tale build to a cathartic conclusion as the Academy of the Holy Angels presents Reginald Rose’s “12 Angry Jurors.” Read more» 

Angelic Artworks Welcome Visitors to Kelleher Hall Chapel

Demarest, NJ: A pair of prayerful angels painted by Holy Angels’ 2019 Advanced Placement Studio Art class, now welcome visitors to the Kelleher Hall Chapel. The framed artworks, which were commissioned by the AHA Campus Ministry Department, were installed on either side of the chapel entrance, where they will be seen by everyone who attends weekly Masses. Read more» 

AHA Faculty & Staff Honored at Mass for Catholic Schools Personnel

Demarest, NJ: Several members of the Holy Angels community were invited to the Archdiocesan Mass for Catholic Schools Personnel, where they were honored for their long-term commitment to the Academy. Monsignor Thomas Nydegger, vicar general and moderator of curia for the archdiocese, celebrated this festive Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. Read more» 

AHA Benefit Honors Teacher’s Battle with Breast Cancer

Demarest, NJ: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on loved ones who have survived their battles, and those we have lost. This is also a time to take action by raising funds for research and pledging to fight on. The Academy of the Holy Angels Varsity Soccer Team promised “We Play to Fight On” in their second annual match in memory of Holy Angels’ beloved business and technology teacher Karen Sullivan Camporeale. All proceeds were donated to the Karen Camporeale Fund, which was established by her family. Read more» 

Open House Draws Over 650 Visitors to Holy Angels

Demarest, NJ: More than 650 visitors toured the Academy of the Holy Angels during the October Open House. This was one of the Academy’s largest events in recent years, and included a well-attended reception for legacy families. Read more» 

Holy Angels Celebrates 140 Years of Empowering Women

Demarest, NJ: Happy Feast Day! These words were shared many times as the Academy of the Holy Angels celebrated its 140th birthday on October 2nd. Read more» 

September 2019

AHA Invited to Choirs of America Event in New York City

Demarest, NJ: Vocalists from the accomplished Academy of the Holy Angels Concert Choir have been invited to the inaugural Choirs of America 2020 Master Works Series: The Music of Dan Forrest. This three-day celebration will be held March 19 through 21, 2020, at New York City’s Lincoln Center. Members of the public will be able to purchase tickets for the March 21 performance. Read more» 

Sister Carole Tabano, SSND, Concludes Teaching Career

Demarest, NJ: After 58 years at the head of the class, Sister Carole Tabano, SSND, (AHA ’59) has officially retired. She concluded her teaching career as a Spanish language teacher at her alma mater, the Academy of the Holy Angels. Read more» 

Wellness Wednesday: A Path to Durable Learning

Demarest, NJ: Stress is part of life. Left unchecked, it amps up anxiety and impedes durable learning. On September 25th, Holy Angels stood up to stress by hosting the Academy’s first Wellness Wednesday. Read more» 

HOBY Seminar Yields Dividends for AHA Delegates, Junior Staffer

Demarest, NJ: Selected students from the Academy of the Holy Angels sharpened their leadership skills at the 2019 Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar. Isabelle Egan and Colleen Young were the Academy’s delegates. AHA senior Kayla Pringle, a 2018 HOBY graduate, returned to this year’s conference as a junior staff member. Read more» 

Teen Eyes Nursing Career After Operation Smile Mission in Morocco

Demarest, NJ: A two-week medical mission trip to Morocco changed Rutherford, New Jersey’s Sarah McGowan’s life forever. While volunteering with Operation Smile in El Jadida, McGowan was inspired to pursue a nursing career as her team brought hundreds of free, corrective surgeries to individuals with cleft lip and cleft palate. Read more» 

Rachel Jackiewicz Takes Reins of AHA’s College Counseling Office

Demarest, NJ: Rachel Jackiewicz, an experienced counselor, adviser, and student affairs professional, has taken the reins of the Academy of the Holy Angels’ Office of Academic and College Counseling. The OACC’s new director arrived this month with 20 years of experience in higher and secondary education. Read more» 

Holy Angels Senior Thrives at NJ Scholars Program

Demarest, NJ: Julia Mohr (AHA Class of 2020) was one of only 39 teens accepted to the 2019 New Jersey Scholars Program. This rigorous, residential program was held at Lawrenceville School during the summer. Participants invested five weeks considering “Mind and Body: The Future of Being Human.” Read more» 

Fall Open House: Learn Why AHA Is Still Going Strong after 140 Years

Demarest, NJ: Attend Open House on Sunday, October 6th, and discover why the Academy of the Holy Angels has remained at the vanguard of young women’s education for 140 years! Read more» 

Local Teens Become ‘Young Neighbors in Action’

Demarest, NJ: Angels are not blind to the struggles of others. This is especially true of the Angels who took part in this summer’s Young Neighbors in Action program in Washington, D.C. Read more» 

AHA Students & Staff Renovate Homes in Puerto Rico

Demarest, NJ: The distance between New Jersey and Puerto Rico closed a bit this summer, as students and staff from the Academy of the Holy Angels contributed to the island’s hurricane recovery effort. Working with the Saint Bernard Project (now rebranded as SBP), these steadfast volunteers traveled to the island and helped renovate three homes that were damaged by Hurricane Maria in September of 2017. Read more» 

Holy Angels Celebrates 140th Year; Unveils Collegiate “Flex” Schedule

Demarest, NJ: This fall, as the Academy of the Holy Angels celebrates its 140th year of educating young women, the school’s leaders have implemented a “70 Flex Schedule.” The administrative team anticipates that this collegiate-style schedule will enhance durable learning, ameliorate stress, and prepare students for the challenges of the modern world. Read more» 

Summer 2019

Art Auction to Support Auditorium Renovations at Holy Angels

Demarest, NJ: Prospective bidders are reminded to be in good voice when the Angels in the Arts host their benefit Art Auction on Saturday, September 14th. This informal, educational evening will be held at the Academy of the Holy Angels, 315 Hillside Avenue in Demarest, between the hours of 7 and 10 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person and are available to the public at www.holyangels.org/artauction. Proceeds will benefit renovations to the Academy’s auditorium, which is regularly used by all members of the school community. Read more» 

Holy Angels Volunteers Bring “Sisterly Love” to School in Philadelphia

Demarest, NJ: Each summer since 2011, volunteers from the Academy of the Holy Angels have been winging their way to Philadelphia to help organize Saint Peter the Apostle School for the new academic year. AHA students and their chaperones bring “sisterly love” and a good deal of muscle to Principal Rose Federici, SSND, and her staff. Read more» 

Holy Angels Honored for Outstanding STREAM Program

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels has received the Catholic School Executive Leadership Award in recognition of the Academy’s superior STREAM program. This interdisciplinary curricular approach highlights science, technology, religion, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Read more» 

June 2019

Student Group Connects with Migrants at Mexican Border

Demarest, NJ: Shackles, crowded shelters, and loss of life are part of the everyday experience of migrants who try to enter the United States of America through the southern border with Mexico. This summer, students from the Academy of the Holy Angels visited Douglas, Arizona, and Nogales, Mexico, to witness these realities firsthand. Read more» 

AHA Students Demonstrate Engineering Projects at NCEA Conference

Demarest, NJ: Selected engineering students from the Academy of the Holy Angels were among the exhibitors invited to the National Catholic Educational Association’s STREAM 3.0 conference in Parsippany. The multi-day event showcased the benefits of an interdisciplinary educational approach that integrates science, technology, religion, engineering, art, and mathematics. Read more» 

Star of the AHA Stage Brings Home the Coveted Metro Award

Demarest, NJ: Rianna LeHane’s magnificent stage presence just earned her a Metropolitan High School Theater (“Metro”) Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. LeHane, a recent Academy of the Holy Angels graduate, was honored for her charming portrayal of Lady Larken in “Once upon a Mattress.” Read more» 

Ashley Hess Earns 2019 Angel Award

Demarest, NJ: Just days after graduating Second in Merit from the Academy of the Holy Angels, scholar athlete Ashley Hess of Cedar Grove received the Angel Award, the most prestigious honor an AHA varsity athlete can attain. Hess received her award at the Parents’ Athletic Association’s Spring Sports Dinner, where she was recognized for four years of success, exceptional dedication, leadership, and sportsmanship in the Academy’s tennis program. Read more» 

Angelic Trio Wins AHA’s Kindness Awards

Demarest, NJ: Janella Osbourne, Emily Nam, and Marissa Dellapi have received the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award, the Academy of the Holy Angels’ salute to students whose actions and attitudes inspire others. AHA Dean of Students Andréa Beyer accepts nominations from members of the school community, and the administration selects honorees each quarter. Read more» 

AHA Class of 2019 Poised to Begin Life’s Next Chapter

Demarest, NJ: The Class of 2019 from the Academy of the Holy Angels gathered on May 31st for the Academy’s 139th graduation exercises. This year’s baccalaureate Mass and commencement ceremony were held at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. Read more» 

May 2019

AHA Hosts Representatives from International Universities

Demarest, NJ: Students from the Academy of the Holy Angels take courses abroad and volunteer in numerous nations across the globe. This month, several Angels attended AHA’s International College Night and explored the possibility of earning college degrees outside the confines of the United States. Read more» 

JOY Blossoms as Students Sing at Senior Residences

Demarest, NJ: Teen vocalists from Joining Old and Young recently shared handmade paper flowers and songs from the 1930s through the 1960s at multiple residences for senior citizens. JOY, whose members attend the Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest, performed one-hour concerts at Brookdale Paramus and the Sunrise residences in New City (NY), Old Tappan, and Woodcliff Lake. Read more» 

AHA Seniors Visit Columbia University’s Renowned Surgical Lab

Demarest, NJ: A few weeks before their graduation from the Academy of the Holy Angels, four seniors became the first AHA students to visit the micro lab at Columbia University. This venue is one of the world’s premier microsurgery training labs. Read more» 

Students Earn Accolades for Scores on Spanish National Exam

Demarest, NJ: An impressive array of gold, silver, and bronze medals now belongs to several students from the Academy of the Holy Angels who sat for this year’s national Spanish exam. Students at every level of mastery proved their skills stack up to those of other world language students across the country. Read more» 

National Honor Society Accepts AHA’s Top Scholars

Demarest, NJ: More than 90 upperclassmen from the Academy of the Holy Angels were inducted into the Regina Angelorum Chapter of the National Honor Society. The ceremony was held at the Academy the evening of May 23. Read more»

Model Congress Allows AHA Juniors to Be Legislators for a Day

Demarest, NJ: Academy of the Holy Angels juniors Camila Correa of Demarest and Katherine Gazzini of Ridgewood seized the opportunity when AHA Social Studies Department Chair Gail Fair told them about the 2019 Model Congress held at Ridgewood High School this month. The students met Representative Josh Gottheimer and learned how bills proceed through congressional committees. Read more»

AHA Freshman Has Nonfiction Piece Published in ‘Scrawl’

Demarest, NJ: Discovering silverfish in the shower may not be pleasant, but Academy of the Holy Angels freshman Natasha Dhanrajani managed to turn the encounter on its ear by seeing the scene as a piece of live art. The result was “Silverfish,” an evocative nonfiction piece that now appears in “Scrawl: Rockland Teens Write 2019.” Read more»

Concert Showcases AHA’s Instrumental Musicians & Vocalists

Demarest, NJ: The Academy of the Holy Angels’ Spring Concert was a tremendous outpouring of talent, and a bittersweet sendoff for the seniors who have invested so much in the school’s music program. Read more»

AHA Community Members Work Side by Side on Service Day

Demarest, NJ: Each spring, Service Day allows students, faculty, and staff from the Academy of the Holy Angels to bond as they work side by side, sharing their strength, organizational skills, and many other gifts with the community at large. Read more»

Exhibit Features Drawings by First-year Art Students

Demarest, NJ: Black-and-white and color pencil drawings made by first-year art students at Holy Angels are currently on display in the Academy’s main lobby. Read more»

Scholars Earn Medals, Certificates for Work on French National Exam

Demarest, NJ: Ask “Parlez-vous français?” at the Academy of the Holy Angels, and a number of students will respond. This spring, AHA students who have attained a high level of competence in the French language received multiple medals and certificates for their work on the national exam. Read more»

Oxford University Course Is Expressly Made for AHA Students

Demarest, NJ: An adventurous group of students from the Academy of the Holy Angels recently spent a week at Oxford University’s Pembroke College and immersed themselves in a “bespoke” course: one that was tailor-made for them. This is the second spring the critical thinking course was offered. Both times, the curriculum was prepared by AHA English Department Chair Nancy Schneberger. Read more»

Grandparents’ Day: Extending a Tradition of Loving Bonds

Demarest, NJ: Grandparents’ Day remains one of the best-loved of the many traditions observed at the Academy of the Holy Angels. This year, freshmen and juniors invited their esteemed relatives (or those who are like grandparents to them) to school for a morning Mass and classroom visit followed by a special luncheon. Read more»

Holy Angels Receives Nominations for Paper Mill Awards

Demarest, NJ: Katie Collins, chair of the Academy of the Holy Angels Music and Theater departments, has announced that AHA’s production of “Once upon a Mattress” has been nominated for four Paper Mill Rising Star Awards. Read more»

Cresskill Violinist Is Featured Performer at Juilliard

Demarest, NJ: Internationally acclaimed teen violinist Nayoun Kim of Cresskill was a featured performer in the Juilliard Pre-college Symphony’s May 4th concert. She presented Maurice Ravel’s haunting “Tzigane, Rapsodie de Concert,” under Conductor Adam Glaser. Read more»

AHA’s Italian Students Fare Well on National Exam

Demarest, NJ: Several students from the Academy of the Holy Angels demonstrated their growing mastery of the Italian language by earning honors on the national exam. AHA world language teachers Laura Kraytem and Lisa Betti announced the results. Read more»

AHA’s Latin Students Rank among Nation’s Best Scholars

Demarest, NJ: Latin is alive and well at the Academy of the Holy Angels, where 24 scholars have received honors for their performance on the National Latin Exam. Over 139,000 students from across the United States and 20 foreign countries took the National Latin Exam, and AHA’s scholars proved to be among the nation’s best students. Read more»

April 2019

AHA Students Accept Art National Honor Society’s Invitation

Angels Named to Principal’s List & Honor Roll

Students’ Accomplishments Highlighted at STEM Expo

From Classroom to Current: Trout Raised at AHA Swim Free

Sustaining Excellence Colloquium Leads to Mentorship Opportunity

Spring Open House Offers Highlights of Life at Holy Angels

Inaugural Business Honor Society Inductions Held at AHA

International Week is Celebration of Diversity at AHA

‘Once Upon a Mattress’ Kept Audiences in Stitches

Sahar Ali-Jenkins to Dance for Rutgers University

Operation Smile Mission Takes Bergen Teen to Zunyi, China

Opera Enriches Latin Students’ Understanding of ‘Dido & Aeneas’

Tri-M Accepts Skilled Musicians Who Are Leaders and Scholars

Top Teen Volunteer Receives Medal at Surprise Ceremony

AHA Community Recognizes Students for Exemplary Kindness

AHA Educator Receives Grant to Study History of New Orleans 

Angelic Evening Includes Tributes to Two AHA Alumnae

Artists Earn Silver Medals in National Competition

March 2019

Spend an Evening Discovering the Holy Angels Difference

Ski Racer Earns NJ’s Top Ranking for Third Consecutive Year

AHA’s April 7 Food Truck Festival Is the Hottest Ticket in Town

AHA Scientists Team up to Judge Local STEM Fairs

AHA to Present Musical Comedy ‘Once Upon a Mattress’

AHA’s Top Scientists & Mathematicians Earn Recognition

‘Gift of Failure’ Author Jessica Lahey to Appear at Holy Angels

New Book Covers Beloved Border Collie’s Working Years at AHA

Ides of March Event Supports Teacher Training in Haiti

Music in Our Schools Month® Celebration in Progress at AHA

The Delight is Mutual as JOY Performs Concerts for Seniors

Evening of Entertainment Benefits CO/LAB Theater Group

World Language Honor Societies Open Doors to New Members

Service Trip to Connecticut Includes Work with Immigrants & SSNDs

Nazareth Farm Inspires Appreciative Attitudes

February 2019

AHA Educators Mull the Nature of the Mexican Border Crisis

Students Honored for Maintaining Outstanding Averages

AHA Dancer Recruited by Ohio State University

Three Holy Angels Vocalists Perform at Carnegie Hall

Kindness Awards Are ‘Valentines’ from the Holy Angels Community

Varsity Dancers Earn Fourth National Championship

AHA Artists Receive Regional Key Awards, Recognition for Art

Athletes Sign Letters of Intent with Dartmouth, Notre Dame

Robotics Teams Prove their Mettle in Competition

Czarina Alfonso Is New Jersey’s Top High School Youth Volunteer

 

January 2019

AHA Delegation Represents Moldova at Harvard Model UN Event

Educator & Students Ready for Operation Smile Mission Trips

Early Acceptances Pouring in for AHA Students; Scholarship Tally Rising Daily

AHA Honor Society Raises $1,300 to Assist ‘Hungry for Music’

Chapman & Guyre Represent AHA at All-County Choir Concert

Interactive Classroom Experience Sheds Light on Islam

Dozens of Alumnae Attend AHA’s College Angels Reunion

December 2018

AHA Bowlers Score 250th Win for Coach Dunne

AHA Gym Floor Named ‘Lid’s Court’ in Honor of Long-time Coach

Our Lady of Guadalupe Image Dedicated in Educator’s Memory

Quintana Named AHA’s 2019 Governor’s School Candidate

Amelia Brunda, Julia Mohr Are NJ Scholars Program Candidates

AHA Musicians Deliver an Early Christmas Gift

Summit Spurs Students to Combat Hunger & Food Waste

AHA Marks 70th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights

AHA Artists Send Tidings of Comfort & Joy (Laughter, Too!)

School Community Encouraged to Fulfill Teen’s Christmas Wish

Teen Remains Committed to Empower, Lead, & Excel

Saint Nicholas Day Event Reinforces Bond between Schools

Concert Series Brings ‘JOY’ to Seniors in New Jersey & New York

Gold Award Winner Aims to Inspire New Generation of Readers

Holy Angels Junior Named Top RIFE Volunteer

 

November 2018

Inspirational Teens Receive Kindness Awards

Rho Kappa Welcomes AHA Students Who Excel in Social Studies

Fredericks and Leto Welcomed to AHA Athletic Hall of Fame

AHA Flute Ensemble Performs at SSND Luncheon

Teen Ambulance Corps Volunteer Passes National EMT Exam

Angels Named to Carnegie Hall Choir, All-County Chorus

 

October 2018

Holy Angels Graduates Honored on Alumnae Weekend

Young Women Visit Columbia to ‘Test Drive’ Careers in Medicine

AHA Celebrates 185th Anniversary of the School Sisters of Notre Dame

Sister Nonna Dunphy Scholarship Finalists and Semi-finalists Honored

Top Ten: AHA Students Earn Recognition for PSAT Scores

'Peter & the Starcatcher’ -- Where Pan Began

AHA Opens its Doors to a Flood of Prospective Students

Student’s Poem Presented at United Nations Event

AHA Remembers Beloved Teacher by Donating to Komen Foundation

AHA Alumnae Association Announces ‘Sip & Shop’

Students Use World Smile Day to Promote Global Service Organization

Fashion Angels Convert Recyclable Paper Items into Couture

Sixteen Eucharistic Ministers Commissioned on Feast Day

September 2018

Puerto Rico Receives Support from Student-led Fiesta4Hope

Local Teen Experiences Yale Young Global Scholars Program

Teen Leaders Gain Inspiration at HOBY Seminar

Student Researcher Has Bioinformatics Findings Published

Governor’s School Reinforces AHA Senior’s Interest in Science

Vocalists Raise Funds to Send Special Needs Children to Lourdes

AHA Freshman Named Reserve Champion at Equestrian Event

All Are Welcome: AHA Focuses on Greater Unity

Fencing Phenom Brings Vaccines to the Philippines, Studies at Harvard

August 2018

Local Students Help Philadelphia District Prepare for New School Year

Volunteers Harvest Compassion for Humanity & the Earth at Nazareth Farm 

July 2018

Holy Angels Takes Action to Help Puerto Rico’s Recovery

June 2018

AHA President Will Lead Board of Sister Rose Thering Fund

Gifted Vocalist to Study at Manhattan School of Music

Bergen County Woman Sleeps Outdoors to Support Covenant House

Top Scholars Named to Principal’s List & Honor Roll

AHA Welcomed into New Jersey Association of Independent Schools

Newly-minted Holy Angels Alumna Earns Gold Award

Senior Honored by American Association of Teachers of French

Twins Share Award for Contributions to AHA’s Athletic Programs

Student Attends Forum on Women’s Power & Influence

Trio of Teens Recognized for Respectful and Kind Demeanors

Writers Share Their Craft at 20th Annual Poetry & Prose Reading

Angels from Class of 2018 Take Flight

Angels in the Arts Event Is Celebration of Students’ Creativity

May 2018

High School All-American Enjoys ‘Individual Responsibility’ of Tennis»

Student Composer Revels in ‘Serenitree’ Premiere»

First-year Artists Exhibit a Great Deal of Promise»

Holy Angels Club Shares ‘JOY’ with the Community»

Mary Foley Celebrates 50 Years as a School Sister of Notre Dame»

Need a Smile? These Students Will Gladly Share Theirs»

Aprile Bertomo Places in VFW’s District-level Essay Contest»

National Honor Society Receives 85 Teen Scholars from AHA»

Bergen County Resident to Attend Governor’s School in Science»

AHA Educator & Student Will Train for Waksman Program»

April 2018

Angels from Three States Take Part in Fourth Annual Trout Release»

AHA Scholars Recognized by Mahwah’s Mayor»

Students Explore Opportunities at 10th Annual Spring College Fair»

Students Enjoy ‘Bespoke’ Class at Oxford»

Local Teen Helps to Bring 119 Smiles to Ghana»

AHA Students Raise Awareness of Human Trafficking in New Video»

Musicians Bring Eclectic Program to Spectrum in Closter»

Angels Invited to Join National Art Honor Society»

Popular Food Truck Festival Will Return to AHA»

Top-ranked Skier Gathers Momentum in Regional Event»

‘Macbeth’ Casts Shadow on the Holy Angels Stage»

World Language Students Accepted into Multiple Honor Societies»

 

March 2018

Students’ Sculpture & Photography Net National Awards» 

Ballroom Dancers Enjoy Success in National Competition» 

Induction Ceremony Celebrates AHA Scientists; Doyle Presented with Rockland Electric Scientific Achievement Award» 

Commission ‘Veteran’ Shares UN Experience with 2018 Delegates» 

Ides Events Fuel ‘Schools Not Slavery’» 

Awareness Day Highlights Search for Unity, Need to Speak Out» 

Math Honor Society Hosts ‘Pi Day’ Induction Event» 

Multiple Students Inducted into Tri-M Music Honor Society» 

Teens Evaluate STEM Fair Projects» 

AHA Rings Opening Bell for Music in Our Schools Month®» 

Group Encounters Anguish and Beauty at the Mexican Border» 

 

February 2018

Sister Mary Foley Is Women’s History Month Honoree» 

Cardinal Tobin Urges Students to ‘Stay Connected’» 

Robotics Team Makes Bold Move» 

AHA Sends Over $7,000 to Puerto Rico» 

Harvard Model UN Fosters Teens’ Interest in Global Affairs» 

Writers Amass Awards for Poetry, Short Stories, Humor Pieces» 

AHA to Present Musical Version of ‘Catch Me if You Can’» 

Threepeat: AHA Varsity Dancers Win Third National Title» 

Kindness Award Winners Honored by School Community» 

Artists Earn Recognition in Scholastic Art & Writing Competition» 

Schools in Kyoto and Demarest Build on Common Link» 

Angels Earn Early Acceptance & Millions in Scholarships» 

January 2018

Angels Earn Second Consecutive Bowling Title» 

AHA Vocalists Perform in Competitive Choirs» 

AHA’s Plastic Bottle Ban Is Angelic Inspiration for Newark School» 

Holy Angels Students to Attend Harvard Model UN Conference» 

Perry Outreach Reinforces Young Woman’s Interest in Medicine» 

STREAM Lab Opens Space for Collaboration & Discovery» 

Franciscan Sisters Receive the Gift of Art» 

Elena Pulanco Registers 1,000th Career Point in Tournament Play» 

Angelic Outreach Touches Residents of Van Dyk Park Place» 

 

December 2017

AHA Juniors Named Governor’s School Candidates» 

Festive Music Resounds at Christmas Concert» 

Saint Nicholas Day Event Unites Students from Philadelphia, Demarest» 

Holy Angels Students Observe National French Week» 

Sophomores to Cultivate Leadership Talents at HOBY Seminar» 

Volunteer Spreads Smiles of Joy in Ghana» 

Teen Hunger Summit Reveals: Justice Is the Key» 

November 2017

AHA Dancers Continue Their Winning Ways» 

School Community Increases Fundraising Goal for Puerto Rico» 

AHA Cellist and Her Trio Win International Competition» 

Multiple Students Gain Acceptance to Rho Kappa» 

Christie Classic Leaves Audiences Spellbound» 

Historic Moment: Four Angels Will Be Division 1 College Athletes» 

Aprile Bertomo Wins Local Voice of Democracy Competition» 

Alumna Highlights Philanthropists’ Influence on Suffrage Movement» 

Tri-M Musicians Share Talents at Event in Connecticut» 

Coach Howard Schuman Inducted into AHA Sports Hall of Fame» 

Holy Angels Alumnae Recognized for Musical, Athletic Contributions» 

 

October 2017

Sister Nonna Dunphy Scholarship Finalists & Semi-finalists Honored» 

Holy Angels Community Celebrates Foundation Day» 

Holy Angels Student Travels to Malawi for Operation Smile Mission» 

Students Take Roman Holiday for Operation Smile»  

'And Then There Were None' Coming to AHA» 

Holy Angels Community Welcomes Zac, the Goose Dog» 

'Mustard Seed' Memories Now Etched on Angel's Heart» 

AHA Seniors Named Commended Students in 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program» 

Angels Experience International Day of the Girl at the United Nations» 

Social Worker's Book Is Fond Tribute to Beloved Therapy Dog» 

Feast Day Features Kelleher Hall Dedication» 

September 2017

Sophomores Build Homes & Language Skills in Costa Rica» 

School Community Commits to 'Kick the Water Bottle'» 

Holy Angels Sophomore Makes Connection with 'Family' in China» 

Volunteers Find Nazareth Farm Trip Moving & Memorable» 

Clifton Resident Sets Sights on Career in Medicine» 

Educator's Graduate-level Studies Take Her to Oxford University» 

More Than Decor: AITA Art Auction to Benefit AHA Arts Programs» 

Holy Angels Welcomes Performing Arts Department Chairman» 

Holy Angels Opens Doors to Prospective Students» 

Turning the Tables: Educators Become Students at UK Seminars» 

Wine Tasting to Benefit Educational Programs at Holy Angels»  

 

August 2017

AHA Campus Renovations: Excitement is Building!» 

 

June 2017

Class of 2017 Bids Farewell to the Halls of Holy Angels»   

Holy Angels Hosts Reception for Volunteers» 

Three Students Receive Kindness Awards» 

AHA Debaters Finish Season with Team & Individual Awards»  

World Language Students Honored for Performance on National Exams»

Students Return from Service Trip with New Perspectives»

May 2017

Two AHA Students Receive National Merit® Scholarships» 

Whodunit Nets Multiple Metro Award Nominations» 

Fashion-forward Fundraiser Attracts More Than 500 Guests»  

Four Students Earn Sister Catherine Green Kindness Awards» 

Poetry & Prose Reading to Highlight Students’ Creativity» 

Food Truck & Arts Festival Delivers a Delightful Afternoon» 

AHA Golfers Medal at Big North Tournament» 

Service Day Features Muscle, Meals, and Garlic Mustard» 

Middle School Students Earn Prizes in STREAM Competition» 

April 2017

Trout Raised in AHA Classroom Released into Saddle River»

Students Witness History as Malala Becomes UN Messenger of Peace»

Mu Alpha Theta Welcomes AHA Students Who Excel in Mathematics»

Discover AHA’s Advantages at April 26 Open House»

Fujitsu Representatives Visit AHA»

Rupert Holmes Inspires Cast of ‘Drood’ at AHA»

Tri-M Performers Serenade Spectrum Residents and Volunteers»

Angelic Evening Proceeds to Outfit Kelleher Hall Classrooms»

National Art Honor Society’s Membership Increases»

AHA Continues Operation Rice Bowl Tradition»

Music Resonates at the Academy of the Holy Angels»

AHA Celebrates Students’ Diverse Cultures & Traditions»

 

March 2017

United Nations Conference Has Positive Impact on AHA Students» 

World Language Students Gain Entry to Honor Societies» 

Awareness Day at AHA Shines Spotlight on Personal Development» 

AHA Educators Receive Grants to Study in the United Kingdom» 

AHA Students Inducted into Science National Honor Society: Maron Receives Additional Recognition» 

AHA Artists Receive National Silver Medals» 

AHA Students to Attend UN Commission on the Status of Women»

 

February 2017

AHA Engineering Students Help Judge STREAM Fair»

AHA Officials Launch Kelleher Hall Renovation Project»

Kindness Matters at the Academy of the Holy Angels»

AHA Students Named to Principal’s List and Honor Roll»

AHA Community Unites to Provide Hope for Haiti»

AHA Dance Team Captures Second Consecutive National Title»

Alumna Advises Students: Embrace & Enjoy the Gift of an AHA Education»

AHA Vocalist Performs with International Choir at Carnegie Hall»

Arizona Trip to Highlight Immigration Issues»

January 2017

AngelBots Test Their Robot at ‘FIRST® Tech Challenge’ Qualifier Meet»

AHA Seniors Gain Early Acceptance, Offers of $12.7 Million and Counting»

Community Invited to ‘Circle the Cities with Love’ at AHA»

Faculty & Staff Recognized for Length of Service»

Catholic Schools Week to Include Parental Visits, Alumna Speaker»

Holy Angels Students to Take on Global Issues at Harvard Model UN»

Angels Roll Past the Competition, Earn County Bowling Title»

AHA Students Get a Glimpse of Life at Columbia»

December 2016

AHA President Melinda Hanlon Honored by OLMC»

AHA Artists 'Re-gift' with Unconventional Flair»

Early Success of Haiti Campaign Leads to Updated Goal»

Angels Bring Christmas Cheer to Philadelphia»

AHA Aumna Shares Career Information with Communications Class»

AHA Students Named to Principal's List, Honor Roll»

November 2016

Elizabeth Garcia Signs Letter of Intent to Play Basketball at University of Hartford»

AHA Community Unites to Assist Haiti»

AHA Embraces 'Giving Tuesday' Movement»

AHA Marks Foundation Day»

Noel Coward's 'Blithe Spirit' to Be Presented at AHA»

AHA Vocalist to Perform at Carnegie Hall»

Alumnae Enshrined in AHA's Athletic Hall of Fame»

October 2016

AHA ‘Club’ Highlights Inclusion and Unity»

Students Commissioned as Eucharistic Ministers at AHA Feast Day Celebration»

Semi-finalists and Commended Students Named at AHA»

AHA Volunteer Leaves Her Heart in Kenya»

Angels Give Others a Firm Grasp of Their Own Capabilities»

Sister Limétèze to Present Foundation Day Keynote as Alumnae Weekend Begins»

September 2016

Plans for Kelleher Hall Unfold at AHA»

AHA to Host October 2 Open House»

Professional Chef Brings Fresh, Healthy Choices to AHA»

 

May 2016

Convent to be re-named Sister Genevieve Kelleher Hall»

February 2016

Holy Angels Dance Team Makes History»

Holy Angels Performing Children of Eden»

Angels Enable Complete Prosthetic Hand»

AHA Seniors Participate in Advanced Architectural Program in STREAM Program»

AHA Senior Named Finalist in National Merit Scholarship Program»

October 2015

AHA Announces One Semi-Finalist, Three Commended Students in the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program»

Archbishop Hebda Visits Academy of the Holy Angels to Kick Off Proclaim Jubilee Year»

Holy Angels Called to a Summer of Service on Appalachia's Nazareth Farm»

A Higher Calling: Academy of the Holy Angels Appoints New Teacher for 2015 - 2016 School Year»

Two Holy Angels' Seniors Have Been Appointed Junior Commissioners to Bergen County's Commission of the Status of Women (COSW) to Help Local Women in Need»

September 2015

Attend Academy of the Holy Angels' Fall Open House...And Discover Why Women Leaders Begin at AHA » 
Academy of the Holy Angels Welcomes Class of 2019, Its Largest in Recent History » 
High-Achieving Holy Angels Excel as AP Scholars, Demonstrating College-Level Mastery »  
Teamwork Pays Off: Girls' Varsity Soccer Game Raises Funds, Awareness for Childhood Cancer » 
Academy of the Holy Angels Clinches Bergen County High School Varsity Girls' Tennis Championship »

August 2015

Holy Angels Gardeners Harvest Crops for Local Food Bank » 

May 2015

Holy Angels Students Serve on Youth Court »
Silver Key in the National Scholastic Art & Writing Competition - Poetry »
Silver Key in the National Scholastic Art & Writing Competition - Short Story »
AHA Golfer Wins Tournament » 
AHA Receives Nine METRO nominations » 

April 2015

AHA Arts Group Hosts Food Truck Festival » 
Ruby Kang Wins National Art Award »
International Night »
Food Truck Festival » 

March 2015

AHA Welcomes Poet to School » 
AHA PowerBack Club Raises Awareness » 

February 2015

AHA Dancers Achieve National Recognition »
Demarest's Frank Lucia Celebrates His 105th Birthday With AHA Angels » 
AHA Presents "The Drowsy Chaperone" »

January 2015

AHA - Science and Religion Seminar »  
AHA Welcomes Pro Life Witness »
Holy Angels Dance Team News » 

December 2014

Perry Initiative » 
Flutist Michelle Lu » 
AHA Musicians Spread Holiday Cheer » 

November 2014

AHA Students Build Greenhouse » 
Holy Angels Community Welcomed S. Cathy Arata, SSND »
AHA Athletes Sign Letters of Intent » 
AHA Stages Macbeth »  

October 2014

Holy Angels Students Lobby Congress »
AHA's Vocal Ensemble performed at Carnegie Hall »
Six AHA Seniors Named Commended Students »

September 2014

AHA Students Demonstrate College-Level Achievement

$75,000 grant awarded from the NJ Office of Homeland Security & Preparedness

AHA Open House, Sunday, October 5th

August 2014

Mrs. Laura Kraytem Named Educator of the Year by Operation Smile

July 2014

AHA Students Demonstrate College Level Scholarship

June 2014

Art Restoration Project

AHA Begins Construction on New Turf Field

AHA Celebrates 134th Commencement

May 2014

AHA's Spring Musical Nominated for Eight Metropolitan Awards

AHA Creative Writing Class Holds Reading at Barnes & Noble

AHA Student Chosen to Receive Brian Piccolo Award

Archibishop Hebda Visits AHA

AHA Student Awarded National Merit Scholarship

March 2014

AHA Students Chosen to Speak at UN Conference

February 2014

AHA Students Win 45 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

AHA Soccer Player Signs with Sacred Heart University

January 2014

AHA Announces New President

AHA Musicians Named to Regional Orchestra and Band

AHA Art Club Hosts Fundraiser for Tomorrow's Children Foundation

AHA Dance Team Starts Season with Eight First Place Trophies

December 2013

AHA Students Participate in Rutgers Model UN Conference

Alumna Returns to AHA to Speak About Her Role as Media Lawyer

AHA Science Classes Welcome Pioneer in Fetal Physiology

AHA Student Awarded Best Delegate at Model UN Conference in Budapest

Rabbi and Author Visits AHA World Religion Classes

Carol Fay Honored as Woman of Faith, Woman of Action

November 2013

AHA Sponsors Turkey Drive

Speaker from NJSCPA's Pay It Forward Program Visits AHA

AHA Announces Sister Mary Nonna Dunphy Scholars

October 2013

AHA Teams Up With Rebuilding Together Bergen County

AHA Students Stand Up Against Poverty

AHA Dance Team Hosts Zumbathon

Alana Spendley Named Klett Scholar

AHA Students Commemorate World Smile Day

September 2013

2014 National Merit and Hispanic Scholars Named

AHA Announces 2013 AP Exam Results 

AHA Dance Team Members Named All-American

AHA Teacher Edits World Religion Book