Right before Easter break, incoming freshmen and their parents stepped onto the campus they will grow to love over the next four years. From 5 to 7 pm, the future 100 freshmen girls, from a total of 31 schools, and their families were introduced to Academy life. For girls who have been at Academy K-8 or have family members who have attended AHN, the evening was one that they had anticipated for many years.

In the chapel, President Mr. Arthur Raimo gave the eager crowd a warm welcome and  introduction, followed by Principal Mrs. Camille Jowanna, who led everyone in a prayer.

Alumni Director Mrs. Patty Bohannan revved up the guests with a short overview of the amazing opportunities of becoming an alumni and upholding the traditions of AHN. She also said she saw the new ninth graders as “alumni in training.”

Athletic Director Mr. Kevin Vargas talked about the benefits of participating in the athletic program, summer camps offered over the summer, and tryouts. Sister Mary Patricia Plumb closed the informative session by telling the girls about the comunity service hours requirements and the importance of starting them as soon as possible.

After the meeting in the chapel, the families filed into the Brady Center where athletic coaches and ambassadors were available for questions. Every girl and her family were called separately to deliberate with a faculty member about her course placement for the upcoming year.  Allthough the guidance department may have already recommended each student for certain classes, girls who wanted to advance into more challenging classes were encourages to take  placement tests scheduled for the following Saturday.

By the end of the night, the bright new faces shone with excitement and anticipation for their first year of high school after being welcomed into the loving Academy community with open arms. With huge smiles on their faces, the girls bought their new AHN sweatshirt, immediately trying them on, posing for pictures, and wearing them home.

Admission Director Mrs. Pam Doherty and Assistant Mrs. Doreen Zelen believe that the night went exceptionally well and are proud of the new girls.

Mrs. Zelen said, “I think probably for the first time in a long time we have a large group of young women who truly want to be here.  They really want the all girls experience.  They want the sisterhood. They want the academics.  They want every piece that we have to offer.”