Convocation 2024

Welcoming the New School Year at St. Catherine of SienaAcademy: Orientation Day and Convocation 2024

On Tuesday, August 13, 2024, St. Catherine of Siena Academy (SCA) opened its doors for the new school year with our All-School Orientation Day and Convocation. The excitement was palpable as new and returning students came together to kick off another year of learning and adventure.

The day began with a warm welcome from our Principal, Ms.Hehs, who is entering her sixth year at SCA. Addressing the students and faculty, she emphasized the importance of our four cornerstone values: Academics, Student Life, Sisterhood, and Reflection. These values are the foundation upon which SCA stands, guiding our students to excel academically, develop a commitment to service, form lasting friendships, and grow in their faith.

The Significance of Convocation

Convocation, as Ms. Hehs explained, is more than just an assembly; it’s a sacred gathering where our community comes together to launch the new year with a shared sense of purpose. This year’s Convocation began inthe chapel, a fitting setting for a day rooted in faith and tradition. Ms. Hehs reminded everyone that just as we start the year in prayer, we will also gather in the chapel at the end of the year for the Baccalaureate Mass, where we will bless our seniors as they prepare to embark on their next journey.

A Legacy of Joy and Faith

In her address, Ms. Hehs introduced a theme that will carry through the year: Legacy. SCA, now in its 15th year, has a rich history built on the contributions of many, from the saints who inspire our faith, like St. Catherine of Siena, to the local community members who brought the vision of this school to life.

St. Catherine of Siena, whose life and writings have left an indelible mark on the Catholic faith, is a constant source of inspiration forour students. She famously said, “If you are who you are meant to be, you will set the world ablaze,” a call to live out one’s true potential with passion and purpose.

This year, the symbol of the sunflower will serve asa visual reminder of joy and faith. Sunflowers, which are known for their ability to turn toward the sun even on cloudy days, symbolize our call to keep our eyes on God, seeking His presence in both joyful and challenging times. Each classroom and office at SCA now features a large sunflower, a daily reminder to find joy in all things and to trust in God’s constant presence.

Embracing the Journey Ahead

As we start the new school year, Ms. Hehs encouraged everyone to embrace the journey with the same joy and faith that have defined our school’s legacy. She quoted Pope St. John Paul II, who once told students at Catholic University: “Enjoy the privileges of your youth; the right to be dynamic, creative, and spontaneous; the right to be full of hope and joy; the opportunity to explore the marvelous world of science and knowledge; and above all the chance to give of yourself to others in generous and joyful service.”

At SCA, we believe that each student is part of a growing legacy, one that is shaped by the contributions of those who came before andwill be carried forward by the generations to come. As we move through this year together, let’s find joy in our shared experiences, support one another in our challenges, and always turn toward God, just as the sunflower turns toward the sun.

Welcome to the 2024 school year at St. Catherine of Siena Academy. Let’s make it a year full of joy, growth, and lasting memories!

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