On Monday May 18, 2026, the Academy’s graduating class celebrated Baccalaureate Mass and Honors Convocation. This was held at Christ the King Catholic Church, and the celebrant of the Mass was Father Leonard Plazewski. The musicians included Alyssa Cabrera, Andrew O’Connor and Michael Smith, who were accompanied by AHN’s Quarter Notes. 

Prior to the Baccalaureate Mass beginning, graduates gathered in Christ the King’s Bailey Center. Most members of the Class of 2026 radiated feelings of excitement yet nostalgic to leave friends and family. Ava Radovic (‘26) said, “This is a really bittersweet moment because it is the start of a new chapter in my life, but I’m sad to leave built relationships.” 

Nonetheless, others felt like they were ready to commence their journey of higher education and the adult world. Senior Gaby Cossi said, “I feel like I’ve outgrown the walls of the Academy, as I have spent the perfect amount of time. I’m ready to move onto the rest of my life.” No matter their sentiments towards Baccalaureate and Graduation, graduates were all-together grateful for what the Academy has provided them the past four years. 

The Class of 2026 then proceeded to enter the church and took their place in the pews. This marked the start of Baccalaureate Mass, in which a handful of graduates played key roles. Seniors Elise Santillan and Addyson Moad served as Lectors. JudyAnne Jackson (‘26) gifted the audience with her voice during the Responsorial Psalm. Seniors Megan Causey and Madison Pfeuffer were Gift Bearers. Extraordinary Ministers of Communion included Abigail Doyle (‘26) and Fiona Kaley (‘26). 

During the Homily, Father Len encouraged graduates to set their priorities straight in life as they begin their journey. He recognized that although he cannot tell graduates what is best academically, athletically, or socially, he assures that opening the heart up to God will provide them with peace and fulfillment throughout life. Father Len recommended some ways graduates can continue their relationship with God, such as joining campus ministry and participating in service projects. He then connected this to what it truly means to be a Christian: to seek greatness in others rather than oneself, inspiring the graduates to genuinely follow the path God has paved for them. Father Len concluded by uplifting the graduates through acknowledging their potential and wishing that they take these words of advice in their future relationship with God. 

Senior Lexi Leto said, “I’m excited for Honors Convocation as everyone will be recognized for all their accomplishments.” 

Introduced by Student Council President Ali Ibanez and High School Principal Jeane McNamara, Honors Convocation commemorated the achievements of graduating seniors. This includes extracurricular activities, such as Student Council, ACHONA, and additional  publications. Moreover, graduates were recognized for membership in honor societies and exemplary amount of service hours. Students were also celebrated for their scholarships, such as Madeline Morgan (‘26), who was honored as a National Merit Scholar. In addition, many students were awarded various diploma designations, the Florida Bright Futures Program and Advanced Placement Program. During this part of the Honors Convocation, teachers reflected on the graduating class. 

Math teacher Megan Dubee said, “The Class of 2026 are a unique group of beautiful young women. We have laughed, cried, and made many memories together. I will miss them but can’t wait to see their futures unfold.”  

Social studies teacher Chandler Jackson said, “If I could describe this class in two words, it would be resilience and adaptability.” 

Select seniors were then given the opportunity to receive alumni and athletic awards. Ava Radovic (‘26) received the Blessed Marie Rose Durocher Alumnae Award, as she is considered to exemplify AHN’s motto of “Esse Quam Videri,”  meaning “To Be, Rather Than To Seem.” Other recognitions included the Dads Club School Achievement Award, presented to Yasmeen Luzod, and the Mothers Association award, received by Khloé Klay. Catherine Cathey was named Senior Athlete of the Year, while Ali Ibanez was elected Senior of the Year. Moreover, seniors Alyssa and Adriana Lyons were honored with Salutatorian and Valedictorian, respectively. 

The ceremony ended with graduating Quarter Notes leading their fellow sisters in singing Academy’s Alma Mater. This made many seniors reflect on everything they experienced with their classmates during a highly influential period of their lives. 

Sarah Hoerbelt (‘26) said, “For me, Academy was a very formative period of self-discovery in my life. I will miss home and these yellow brick walls, but I am so excited to start my college journey.”