News at SHA

On the first Friday of the 2026–2027 school year, Sacred Heart Academy gathered in the Sister Virginia Crowley Theatre for its annual Opening Liturgy. For the first time, it was Mary Jo (Hammill ’79, P ’12) Clarke who led the entire auditorium in prayer, asking for God’s blessing and grace for every student as the new academic year began.

For Mary Jo, SHA’s new Director of Campus Ministry, this was a full circle moment. After 24 years of working in Development and Alumnae Relations at Sacred Heart, she took a leap of faith and accepted the role as spiritual director of the school. It was a decision, she says, guided by her deep devotion to God.

“My faith has been an extraordinary gift throughout my life, providing strength, comfort, trust, and hope,” says Mary Jo. “I feel privileged to share that gift with the Sacred Heart Academy community.”

Alongside Sister Eileen Brennan, CSJ, Mary Jo now oversees the expansive scope of faith-based activities on campus and beyond. In addition to class retreats, weekly Mass, and scheduled liturgies throughout the year, she collaborates closely with the Theology department for spiritual synergies, the Administration for school-wide liturgies, and Student Life for service and leadership opportunities.

Mary Jo’s passion for Sacred Heart is rooted in a long history with the school. As the oldest of six sisters, she was the first Hammill girl to enroll at Sacred Heart in 1975. Her parents, Catherine and the late Gregory Hammill, quickly recognized the transformative power of an all-girls Catholic education and became long-time advocates. Her father was a member of the Fathers’ Club and passionately fundraised for the construction of the new theater before sending his five other daughters—Cathy ’80 (P ’14, ’17), Suzanne ’81, Sheila ’83, Christine ’84, and Lonnie ’85—through Sacred Heart’s doors. 

“My connection to Sacred Heart Academy began when I started four formative years here as a student,” says Mary Jo. “I will always remember our beloved chaplain, Father David Farley, who had a wonderful way of making every student feel special. He would memorize the ID pictures of incoming 9th grade students and would greet us by name. 'Hello, Mary Jo!' That simple, kind gesture showed me a warmth and spirit that has stayed with me throughout my life.”

While always actively involved in alumnae circles, Mary Jo’s professional relationship to Sacred Heart Academy began in 2002 when two fellow graduates suggested she apply for an open position. She served her first 15 years as Director of Development and Alumnae Relations, establishing key fundraising initiatives to support the students, followed by eight years as Director of Alumnae Relations. Soon after, Mary Jo earned her Master’s in Theology from St. Joseph’s Seminary and College, a four-year journey she began during a time of personal tragedy following the heartbreaking loss of her son, Michael, in 2017. That pivotal milestone deepened her faith and strengthened her trust in God.

“I could not have imagined that God had another chapter planned for me. Looking back, I feel blessed.”

Now, stepping into her new role as Director of Campus Ministry, Mary Jo’s mission is to ensure every SHA student knows and appreciates her God-given gifts. She believes deeply that at its core, Sacred Heart’s mission of educating young women of excellence is grounded in Catholic faith, and Campus Ministry plays an integral role in that vision.

"I love interacting with the young women at SHA,” says Mary Jo. “My greatest hope and prayer is that I can encourage each girl to grow in her faith, deepen her relationship with God, and  continue to discover the many gifts she has been given.”

As she begins this chapter, Mary Jo brings her signature warmth, empathy, and devotion to the next generation of SHA leaders.

"In so many ways, this new role feels like coming full circle," she says. “I  appreciate our special sisterhood and feel privileged to walk alongside our young women as they continue to discover their own faith and the unique purpose God has for each of them."