News at SHA

Sacred Heart Academy Celebrates 74th Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2026
June 4, 2026

Sacred Heart Academy joyfully celebrated its 74th Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 30, 2026, in the Sister Virginia Crowley Theatre, honoring the achievements and spirit of the Class of 2026 as they concluded their high school journey.


Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, and alumnae, graduates were recognized for their academic accomplishments, leadership, and commitment to the values that define a Sacred Heart education. The ceremony marked both a culmination and a beginning, as students prepare to continue their academic and personal journeys at colleges and universities across the country and around the world.


Leading the Class of 2026 were Valedictorian Eva Gargiulo, who will attend McGill University to study Biochemistry, and Salutatorian Isabella Fernandim, who will attend Barnard College to study Political Science. Together with their classmates, they represent a class distinguished by intellectual curiosity, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose.


The Class of 2026 achieved a 100 percent college placement rate and earned more than $40 million in scholarships, a reflection of their hard work and dedication throughout their time at Sacred Heart Academy.


Words of Reflection and Inspiration

Reflecting on the graduates' achievements and personal growth, Principal Maria Hecht emphasized the qualities that have defined the Class of 2026 and prepared them for the future. “Over the years, you have grown not only in knowledge, but in courage, compassion, leadership, and faith. You have challenged yourselves academically, supported one another through difficult moments, and celebrated victories together. The bonds you formed here at SHA are part of what makes this community so special.”


A highlight of the ceremony was the address delivered by distinguished alumna Erin (O’Brien ’01) Edwards, Partner at Velocity Capital Management. Drawing on more than two decades of experience in the finance industry, she encouraged graduates to lead with integrity, embrace challenges, and remain grounded in the values instilled during their time at SHA. Her message of leadership and service resonated strongly with the graduates as they look ahead to the future. Quoting St. Catherine of Siena, Edwards challenged the Class of 2026 to “be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire,” inspiring graduates to pursue their unique callings with confidence, purpose, and faith.


Commencement weekend began with the Baccalaureate Mass on May 29 at St. Anne’s Church in Garden City, celebrated by Monsignor Thomas Harold. The Mass provided a meaningful opportunity for reflection and gratitude as the class gathered one final time as students.


As the Class of 2026 joins Sacred Heart Academy’s proud alumnae community of more than 13,000, we celebrate their accomplishments and look forward with confidence to the impact they will make in the world.


Class of 2026 Achievements

  • 100% will attend four-year colleges and universities, including the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, Columbia University, University of Virginia, New York University, Georgetown University, Wake Forest University, Villanova University, Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, Boston College, and the United States Naval Academy
  • 11 AP Capstone Diplomas
  • 11 Spartans are committed to play collegiate athletics
  • 7,000 hours of community service completed
  • Platinum distinction on the 2025 AP Honor Roll for the second consecutive year
  • 73 graduates earned the Principal's Award for achieving a four-year cumulative weighted GPA of 95 or higher
  • Students will attend more than 75 colleges and universities across the United States
  • The class has earned more than $40 million in scholarships to date

Sacred Heart Academy Juniors Earn High Honors at Long Island Science Congress

June 12, 2026
Three SHA juniors earned High Honors at Long Island Science Congress, highlighting another exceptional year for the research program.

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

March 23, 2026
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.

Inspiring Excellence in Every Student

Rooted in faith and tradition, we empower young women to lead with confidence, compassion, and integrity. Through rigorous academics, spiritual growth, and a supportive sisterhood, our students are inspired to excel in college and beyond while making a meaningful impact in the world.

Sacred Heart Academy Juniors Earn High Honors at Long Island Science Congress

June 12, 2026
Three SHA juniors earned High Honors at Long Island Science Congress, highlighting another exceptional year for the research program.

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

March 23, 2026
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

February 25, 2026
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.