News at Sacred Heart Academy

Sacred Heart Academy’s 2026 Leadership Dinner Dance Celebrates Community, Honors Alumnae, and Raises over $555,000

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:37:05 GMT

Sacred Heart Academy’s 2026 Leadership Dinner Dance was a resounding success, bringing together 370 members of the SHA community for an evening of celebration, gratitude, and purpose. The event raised an impressive $555,000 in support of the school’s mission to educate and empower young women.

Held in a spirit of joy and unity, the evening reflected the strength of the Sacred Heart community, including parents, alumnae , faculty, and friends who share a deep belief in the value of Catholic education and the promise of future generations.

“This is truly wonderful to gather with so many members of this extraordinary community who share a deep belief in the power of Catholic education and in the promise of young women,” said President Kim Johnson ’92, P ’28. “Because when mission meets momentum, we do more than honor our past, we secure the future.”

A highlight of the evening was the announcement of a transformative gift from Theresa (Neubauer ’88) and Artie Minson. In recognition of their extraordinary generosity, Sacred Heart Academy will open the Minson Family Student Center in Fall 2026.

This reimagined space will serve as a central hub for student life, offering dedicated areas for guidance and college counseling while fostering collaboration, leadership, and community. The new center represents a significant investment in the student experience and in the future of Sacred Heart Academy.

The Leadership Dinner Dance also served as an opportunity to honor distinguished alumnae whose lives and careers reflect the values of Sacred Heart and the Sisters of St. Joseph. This year’s honorees included Rosanne (Puntolillo ’81) Breen P ’11, Rachel (Cancro ’83) Cashwell P ’18, and Theresa (Neubauer ’88) Minson. Special recognition was given to Christine Goodwin, Ed.D. ’92 for her contributions and dedication to SHA and Catholic education.

Each honoree represents the enduring impact of a Sacred Heart education, women of faith, leadership, and service who continue to shape their communities and inspire future generations.

Throughout the evening, guests were reminded that Sacred Heart Academy’s mission extends far beyond the classroom. Rooted in Catholic faith and guided by the vision of the Sisters of St. Joseph , the Academy is committed to forming young women of compassion, courage, and purpose.

The event also highlighted the Academy’s forward looking vision, including its five year strategic plan, The Mission Forward , which emphasizes investing in the campus and programs that support the formation of the whole student. From academic excellence to wellness and leadership development, Sacred Heart continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s girls and young women while remaining grounded in its core values.

The 2026 Leadership Dinner Dance was more than a celebration. It was a powerful testament to what is possible when a community comes together in support of a shared mission. Through generosity, faith, and a commitment to the future, Sacred Heart Academy continues to thrive and inspire so many.

SHA Young Women Serve and Learn in the Galápagos Over February Break

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:38:01 GMT

Over February break, our SHA young women embarked on a life-changing service trip to the breathtaking Galápagos Islands, embracing faith, service, culture, and adventure every step of the way.

Their journey began in Ecuador, where they spent a day exploring and learning about the country’s rich history and culture. One unforgettable highlight was visiting the “Center of the World” at the Equator, standing at 0° latitude as confirmed by GPS coordinates. It was a powerful moment, quite literally standing in the middle of the world, marking the beginning of a meaningful global experience.

From there, the group flew to the remarkable Galápagos Islands, known worldwide for their extraordinary biodiversity and natural beauty. Faith remained at the heart of the trip. The young women celebrated a beautiful Mass at a local Catholic church, joining the community in prayer and reflecting on the purpose of their journey, to serve with open hearts.

Service took many forms throughout the week. The students participated in a reforestation project, contributing hands-on work to help preserve the islands’ delicate ecosystem. Their efforts supported local sustainability initiatives and reinforced the importance of environmental stewardship, an especially meaningful lesson in a place so globally significant for conservation.

The group also had the opportunity to visit a local school, Unidad Educativa Stella Maris, where they engaged in a meaningful service project. They painted classrooms and common areas, worked in the school garden, and built benches out of wooden pallets to create welcoming spaces for students. This hands-on experience allowed them to connect directly with the local community while putting their faith into action through service.

The group also visited the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station, where they learned about ongoing conservation efforts and the unique species that inhabit the islands. Seeing the impact of scientific research and environmental protection up close deepened their understanding of the responsibility we all share in caring for our common home.

Cultural immersion was another special part of the experience. The young women enjoyed a cooking class with a local family, learning traditional recipes and sharing stories across languages and cultures. They also visited a local ranch where dozens of land tortoises roamed freely, an unforgettable encounter with one of the Galápagos’ most iconic animals.

Accompanying the group was Mr. Powers, Ms. Lavery, and Ms. Cali, whose guidance helped enrich the educational aspects of the trip. Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Powers shared, “This trip gave our students the opportunity to see the world through a wider lens. They did not just learn about geography and conservation in a classroom. They lived it, served others, and grew in ways that will stay with them for years to come.”

From standing on the Equator to serving through reforestation and school outreach, from celebrating Mass to sharing meals with local families, this February break was far more than a trip. It was a journey of growth. Our SHA young women returned home with broadened perspectives, strengthened faith, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Future-Ready: Molloy University Professors Bring the World of Analytics to SHA

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:02:57 GMT

From storytelling with data to global leadership: How SHA is preparing the next generation of digital pioneers.

The Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) Counseling department hosted a high-impact guest lecture featuring two distinguished faculty members from Molloy University 's School of Business.

Alexander Chan, Ph.D. and Gayle O’Keefe MBA spent the afternoon decoding the rapidly evolving fields of Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence, bridging the gap between classroom theory and real world practice turning our Theater into a hub of innovation.

Global Expertise: AI and Innovation

Dr. Alexander Chan, Assistant Professor of Business Analytics, brought a unique blend of academic rigor and corporate experience to our students. With a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence and a career that spans from the UK to Hong Kong, Dr. Chan’s background includes senior leadership roles at major tech firms where he managed accounts for giants like Google, Samsung, and Microsoft.

During his presentation, Dr. Chan utilized real-life case studies to illustrate how AI isn't just a buzzword, but a tool for solving problems. He challenged students to:

Think Critically : Analyze raw facts to reach logical conclusions.
Innovate through Combination : Look at existing technologies and "combine them to create an innovative solution."
Bridge the Gap : Understand how thought leadership meets "real-life business practicality."

The Power of the Story: Data-Driven Decisions

Gayle O'Keefe, a Professor of Practice with a rich background in strategy and analysis at firms like Digital and Endai Worldwide, presented "Analytics and You: Making Smart Decisions with Data."

Her lecture focused on the human element of math, reminding students that "Analytics is a combination of math, science, and storytelling." Key takeaways from her session included:

Empowerment through Data : Understanding how platforms and companies use your data, and how you can use that same data to make better personal and professional choices.
The Underdog Strategy : How to use historical data strategically to remove subjectivity and gain a "holistic view," especially when facing tough competition.
Future-Ready Skills : Emphasizing that data proficiency is a universal skill that prepares students for any career path they choose.

Why Analytics Matters for SHA Students

The visit emphasized a core truth for our Math and Computer Science students: the more information you have, the more informed your decisions become. By learning to view data points as variables that can change a narrative, our students are better equipped to navigate a world driven by algorithms.

From Dr. Chan’s high-level AI insights to Professor O’Keefe’s practical applications of Analytics, the afternoon was a masterclass in how to be a leader in the digital age.

"Sometimes you just need to take a look at what is out there and combine them to create an innovative solution." —Dr. Alexander Chan

Sacred Heart Academy Named to College Board’s AP School Honor Roll

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:33:06 GMT

Sacred Heart Academy has been recognized for outstanding student achievement and expanded access in the Advanced Placement (AP) program.

The College Board announced that Sacred Heart Academy has earned Platinum distinction on the 2025 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll for the second consecutive year, the highest level of recognition awarded. Fewer than 8% of schools nationwide receive this honor, placing Sacred Heart Academy among a select group of schools recognized for exceptional achievement in Advanced Placement programming. This highest recognition given by The College Board distinguishes Sacred Heart Academy as a premier Catholic preparatory school for young women.

This distinction reflects exceptional performance in three key areas. College Culture, defined as the number of graduating seniors who completed at least one AP course. College Credit, demonstrated by student success in earning AP scores of 3 or higher. College Optimization, achieved by students completing five or more AP courses during high school, with at least one taken in ninth or tenth grade.

The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools nationwide whose AP programs deliver measurable results while expanding access and opportunity. Schools are honored annually for their commitment to fostering a strong college going culture, increasing access to college level coursework, and preparing students for academic success beyond high school.

SHA offers nearly 20 Advanced Placement college-level courses that help students develop critical thinking skills and academic rigor, often saving time and money in college. Students also benefit from numerous opportunities for engagement, leadership, and personal growth within a supportive environment that both challenges and nurtures them. Through rigorous academics, competitive athletics, vibrant performing arts, and a strong foundation in spiritual values, students are prepared to lead with courage, compassion, and commitment.

Lead with Heart.

Sacred Heart Academy Welcomes Broadway Star Thayne Jasperson as Artist in Residence

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 13:40:11 GMT

Welcome to SHA, Thayne Jasperson!

Sacred Heart Academy is delighted to announce an exciting new chapter in our Performing Arts program: Broadway performer, singer, dancer, and choreographer Thayne Jasperson has joined the SHA community as our new Artist in Residence.

Thayne brings with him a remarkable career on the world’s biggest stages. Audiences around the globe know him from his unforgettable performances in Hamilton , Matilda , and Newsies . His work in Hamilton has been particularly historic, after a decade with the show, he remains the last original cast member, performing as Samuel Seabury and understudying the iconic role of King George III.

Now, Thayne brings his artistry and passion for education to Sacred Heart Academy, collaborating with students through classes, workshops, and productions. As part of his residency, he will work closely with Musical Theater students on their upcoming production of Xanadu (March 13–15, 2026), sharing his expertise to help elevate the performance. His presence marks an extraordinary opportunity for young performers to learn directly from a working Broadway professional, a mentor who understands not only the craft, but the dedication, discipline, and heart it takes to thrive onstage.

“Having Thayne Jasperson as our Artist in Residence this year is such a monumental opportunity for the students here at Sacred Heart Academy,” said Kelly Miller, Musical Theatre Director. “Learning from Thayne over an extended period of time through intensives, masterclasses, and workshops is sure to elevate not only our musical theater productions but our Music Department as a whole. We could not be happier to be able to provide this experience to our students!”

At SHA, we believe in cultivating leaders in the arts, nurturing creativity, and giving students the tools to grow as performers and as people. Thayne’s commitment to excellence and his inspiring artistic journey align beautifully with these values, and we are honored to welcome him into our school community.

“The Music Department and our students are thrilled to welcome Broadway star Thayne Jasperson as our Artist in Residence,” said Joseph Steiner, Music Chairperson. “Our students have a unique opportunity to learn from a world-renowned performer, and we look forward to seeing how he inspires their creativity and deepens their love for the performing arts.”

We can’t wait to see the creativity, passion, and innovation that will come from this residency.

Sacred Heart Academy Hosts Women’s Leadership Forum Featuring Inspiring Alumnae

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 17:15:51 GMT

Alumnae return to share their stories of leadership, perseverance, and the lasting impact of a Sacred Heart Academy education.

Sacred Heart Academy proudly welcomed back 15 distinguished alumnae for the annual Women’s Leadership Forum, an inspiring event that brought together past and present generations of Sacred Heart leaders.

Throughout the day, these accomplished women spoke with current students about their personal and professional journeys and reflected on how their experiences at Sacred Heart helped shape the confident, compassionate leaders they have become. From the Speech and Debate team to the courtroom, from AP English to the Chief of Staff’s office, each alumna shared how the lessons learned at SHA continue to influence their success.

During the panel discussions, each alumnae shared stories of perseverance, passion, and purpose. They offered valuable advice to students preparing for their own futures, emphasizing the importance of community, resilience, and leadership grounded in the Sacred Heart values.

"Events like the Women’s Leadership Forum bring our Sacred Heart community full circle," said Mary Jo Hammill Clarke '79, P '12, Director of Alumnae Relations. "It is inspiring to see our alumnae return, share their journeys, and show how the education and values they received here continue to guide them as confident, compassionate leaders. Their stories remind our current students that with perseverance, purpose, and the support of the SHA community, anything is possible."

Sacred Heart Academy is deeply grateful to these alumnae for returning to campus and giving back to the SHA community by inspiring the next generation of women leaders.

Participating Alumnae

Maureen Callahan ’89 , Writer, Best-selling Author and Columnist

Meaghan FitzGerald ’15 , Developer Relations Engineer at Ava Labs

Katrina Florio, Ph.D. ’08 , Clinical Psychologist, Northwell Health

Patrice Miller ’04 , Artistic Associate/Director at Clever Girl Productions

Jennifer (Teta’90) Vitale P ’27 , Assistant Principal, Plainedge High School

Julianna Holmes ’15 , Senior Designer, NAINOA

Cassie (Herman ’02) Kralovec , Hospice Nurse at Capital Caring Health

Meghan McNally ’07 , Chief of Staff to President and CEO at Alliance Bernstein

Rosa Pereira, D.O. ’91 , Physicians Partner at Northwell Health

Jacqueline Stykes ’08 , LP Associate at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan

Claudia Chieco ’12 , Project Manager, CMR Civil

Caroline Kenny ’11 , White House Producer with NBC News

Mary Kate (Quinn '06) Giordano , Senior Client for Financial Services at NVIDIA

Whitney (Garlick '05) Maniatty , Wholesale Director at Givenchy Americas

Rolanda (Bell '05) Silverman , Account Manager at New Balance Inc/East Coast Regional

Sacred Heart Academy Shines at Speech Tournament with Aya’s 2nd Place Win

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 18:20:14 GMT

The Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) community is proud to celebrate a remarkable achievement by one of our own at the Speech Tournament held on October 11, 2025, right here at SHA. Competing against students from prestigious schools across the island, including Chaminade, Syosset, Roslyn, Kellenberg, and Half Hollow Hills, Aya Belkharraz Idris earned an impressive 2nd place finish in the challenging Extemporaneous category. This event tests quick thinking and deep understanding, as competitors receive an unexpected topic related to the economy and must prepare, memorize, and deliver a speech within just 30 minutes. Aya’s outstanding performance showcased her intelligence and rhetorical skill, making the SHA family incredibly proud.

“We are thrilled to see our students thrive in these rigorous competitions—especially since the success of our Speech and Debate team reinforces that our commitment to academic and leadership excellence extends beyond the classroom,” said President Kim Johnson.

This first home tournament of the season saw enthusiastic participation from freshmen and sophomores, highlighting the growing strength and dedication of our Speech and Debate team. Tournaments are held twice a month from October through March at various schools in the region, with the season culminating in the national competition in Washington, D.C., next May. Aya’s 2nd-place finish has earned her a half qualification, putting her well on her way to representing SHA on the national stage.

Speech and Debate Team Coach and English teacher Ms. Stephanie Cutrona praised her students’ dedication, sharing, “I am extremely proud of the hard work the girls are putting in—they meet with me during their lunch and study hall periods to practice, in addition to our after-school practices, and they are eager to help one another. I am often in awe of them—our girls are incredible! We are dedicated to growing our program to give our aspiring lawyers, doctors, presidents, and thespians a sphere to thrive.”

Principal Maria Hecht added, “We are so proud of Aya for earning second place! These competitions do more than celebrate talent—they help our young women find their voices, grow in confidence, and learn the power of thoughtful communication.”

Sacred Heart Academy fosters academic excellence and leadership for girls in grades 9–12. SHA's nationally recognized Speech and Debate team provides a powerful platform for students to develop confidence, critical thinking, and eloquence. Sacred Heart Academy looks forward to welcoming the next round of talented speakers to our home tournament at SHA on March 28.

Congratulations once again to Aya Belkharraz Idris for this outstanding achievement, and to all the SHA students who participated and demonstrated true dedication. Your success reflects the heart and spirit of our community: leadership, resilience, and excellence in action.

Sacred Heart Academy Welcomes New Varsity Coaches to Lead Soccer, Softball, Lacrosse and Basketball Programs

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:54:07 GMT

Sacred Heart Academy (SHA), an all-girls private high school dedicated to academic excellence and athletic distinction, is proud to announce the hiring of three outstanding additions to its varsity coaching staff for the 2025–26 school year: Reid Gorecki as Varsity Softball Coach, Caroline C. Nuttall as Varsity Soccer Coach, and Rachel Ray as Varsity Lacrosse Coach. These hires mark an exciting new chapter in SHA’s commitment to developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the field.

Reid Gorecki

Varsity Softball Coach

A Long Island native and graduate of Kellenberg Memorial High School, Coach Gorecki played college baseball at the University of Delaware before being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2002. He went on to play for both the Atlanta Braves and the New York Yankees, and later competed in the Atlantic League with the Sugarland Skeeters, Long Island Ducks, and Camden Riversharks.

Following his professional career, Coach Gorecki founded Oil City Athletics , a premier multi-sport training facility, and developed a travel baseball program that has sent over 100 athletes to collegiate programs, including Bucknell , Rutgers , Stony Brook , St. John’s , and Delaware .

His coaching accolades include 2004 St. Louis Cardinals Organizational Player of the Year, 2022 Atlantic Collegiate League Coaching Award, 2023 IAOTP Top Entrepreneur and Baseball Coach, and 2025 IAOTP Top Baseball Coach and Top 50 Fearless Leaders

Coach Gorecki currently coaches at St. Agnes and the East Coast Sand Hogs in the Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League.

Caroline C. Nuttall

Varsity Soccer Coach

Coach Nuttall brings a dynamic combination of professional playing experience, youth coaching, and academic achievement to the SHA sidelines. She played professionally with Long Island Rough Riders (NY), Barnsley Football Club (UK) and Brooklyn Football Club , gaining international exposure and refining her leadership, time management, and high-performance mindset.

Athletics run deep in the Nuttall family. Her father, Richard Nuttall, is the head coach of the Hofstra University Men’s Soccer Program and currently holds the distinction of being the winningest Division I coach over the past five seasons. Under his leadership, Hofstra has secured eight conference titles and built a nationally respected program, further underscoring the strong soccer pedigree that Coach Nuttall brings to SHA.

A former standout at both Hofstra University and Long Island University , Coach Nuttall competed as a Division I athlete and team captain, contributing to multiple CAA Championships and top national rankings.

Her coaching experience includes Assistant Varsity Soccer Coach at Sacred Heart Academy (2023–24), Head coach and supervisor at Royal Soccer Training , Technical Coach at Long Island Soccer Club , a member of MLS NEXT , and Private soccer trainer focused on youth development and technical growth.

Rachel Ray

Varsity Lacrosse Coach

Coach Ray brings over 16 years of coaching experience, having led Long Beach High School to multiple county championship appearances (2016, 2017, 2023, 2024). Known for cultivating a championship mindset, Coach Ray has helped develop 12 All Americans, numerous Academic All Americans, and guided 40 athletes to collegiate careers, including 29 at the Division I level.

She has also coached with top-tier club programs inlucding Team 91 and Yellow Jackets , and directed the Future Stars Lacrosse Clinic from 2016–21.

As a player, Coach Ray’s resume is equally impressive. A standout at Rocky Point High School, she went on to dominate at Adelphi University , where she won two NCAA Division II National Championships (2006, 2009), was a three-time IWLCA/US Lacrosse All American, was named MVP of the NCAA DII Final Four (2009), holds Adelphi’s all-time points record, was a Tewaaraton Award Top 25 finalist, and played and coached internationally with the US Select Team in the Czech Republic and Australia.

Coach Ray’s blend of elite experience, strategic insight, and athlete-centered coaching will be a transformative addition to SHA’s lacrosse program.

Matthew Brust

Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach

Matt Brust is one of the most recognizable and accomplished basketball players to emerge from Long Island. His passion for basketball ignited at Babylon High School, where his talent earned him aggressive recruitment from some of the nation’s most prestigious basketball programs. He began his collegiate career playing under the legendary Dean Smith at the University of North Carolina before returning to New York to play at St. John’s University . There, Matt was coached and mentored by the iconic Lou Carnesecca and led the 1989 team to the NIT National Championship.

Following a decorated collegiate career, Matt briefly played for the Chicago Bulls under the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson. His deep love for the game, competitive spirit, and tenacity on the court have seamlessly translated into his coaching style, marked by commitment, care, and an unmatched wealth of experience.

Prior to joining SHA, Coach Brust brought his expertise to programs at The Ursuline School in New Rochelle, Greenwich High School, and Oyster Bay High School, where he made a significant impact on developing student-athletes.

With Matt’s leadership and passion added to the SHA basketball program, Sacred Heart Academy is poised to elevate its competitive spirit and foster a new generation of student-athletes who thrive both on and off the court.

A Bright Future Ahead

“We are honored to welcome Coach Brust, Coach Gorecki, Coach Nuttall, and Coach Ray to the SHA community,” said SHA Athletic Director, Jennifer Strauss. “Their professional experience, commitment to student development, and proven success as both players and coaches align perfectly with SHA’s mission of empowering young women through academics, athletics, and leadership.”

President Kim Johnson adds,"the future is bright for Sacred Heart Academy, the only all girls Catholic High School on Long Island." "Many of our athletes continue on to play college-level sports and lead their teams. We are so proud of our growing athletics program under the leadership of Jennifer Strauss."

With these dynamic leaders at the helm, Sacred Heart Academy looks forward to building on its legacy of excellence and continuing to inspire the next generation of confident, successful student-athletes.

News at Sacred Heart Academy

Sacred Heart Academy’s 2026 Leadership Dinner Dance Celebrates Community, Honors Alumnae, and Raises over $555,000

SHA Young Women Serve and Learn in the Galápagos Over February Break

Future-Ready: Molloy University Professors Bring the World of Analytics to SHA

From storytelling with data to global leadership: How SHA is preparing the next generation of digital pioneers.

Global Expertise: AI and Innovation

The Power of the Story: Data-Driven Decisions

Why Analytics Matters for SHA Students

Sacred Heart Academy Named to College Board’s AP School Honor Roll

Sacred Heart Academy has been recognized for outstanding student achievement and expanded access in the Advanced Placement (AP) program.

Sacred Heart Academy Welcomes Broadway Star Thayne Jasperson as Artist in Residence

Welcome to SHA, Thayne Jasperson!

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Sacred Heart Academy Hosts Women’s Leadership Forum Featuring Inspiring Alumnae

Alumnae return to share their stories of leadership, perseverance, and the lasting impact of a Sacred Heart Academy education.

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Sacred Heart Academy Shines at Speech Tournament with Aya’s 2nd Place Win

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Sacred Heart Academy Welcomes New Varsity Coaches to Lead Soccer, Softball, Lacrosse and Basketball Programs

Reid Gorecki

Varsity Softball Coach

Caroline C. Nuttall

Varsity Soccer Coach

Rachel Ray

Varsity Lacrosse Coach

Matthew Brust

Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach

A Bright Future Ahead