January 25, 2021
From "The Hill We Climb" by Amanda Gorman
When day comes we step out of the shade,
aflame and unafraid
The new dawn blooms as we free it
For there is always light,
if only we're brave enough to see it
If only we're brave enough to be it
Dear Notre Dame,
In these dark days of winter, during the relentless global pandemic, we all look toward the light. Centuries ago, our founder, Anne de Xainctonge, lived her mission of education for girls by establishing the finest schools where girls could learn academics and deepen their love of God. Anne wanted to carry a little lamp to enlighten girls. This mission remains vibrant at Notre Dame.
Our students are brave enough to be the light for one another and the city. Over the Christmas holidays, thanks to ND Cares and moderator Ms. Anne Crosson, Notre Dame successfully donated 1,692 pounds of food to City Harvest, surpassing their initial goal of 1,000 pounds. Genna Cottingham, one of our tenth graders, volunteered at her Parish food pantry and was able to provide over $800 worth of food for those suffering from food scarcity.
Inside the classroom, our students learn about global inequalities and seek ways to make the world more just and peaceful. Social justice has always been an important part of Notre Dame's curriculum.
This year, the school is focused on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In the last President's Post, I mentioned specific books the students have read and work the school is doing with our consultants, Dr. Sandra Chapman (Dr. Chap) and Ms. Martha Haakmat. We will have our fourth workshop with the faculty and Dr. Chap this coming Friday, entitled Conversations About Race. This past Wednesday, Martha Haakmat facilitated a conversation with our Trustees on Board leadership and support for diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism.
During these challenging times, Notre Dame School needs your financial support more than ever. In order to live out the mission of "academic excellence for girls, an awareness of God in their lives, and engagement in the world around them," we need each and every member of our community to support our sole fundraiser, our 64th Chez Nous Benefit, which will be held virtually on March 20, 2021. How can you be a supporter? I ask you to consider purchasing our ND Benefit gift boxes, donating silent auction prizes, making pledges to fund the scholarships and financial aid we give our Notre Dame students, and becoming sponsors of the event. There are further details about the Benefit in this edition of Chez News.
I know that each person who receives our Chez News enjoys reading about the success of our students. Please consider supporting Notre Dame so that we can offer even more programs and opportunities for our students. It is all about the girls and their well-being. Each one courageously carries the light within her and shares it within our community and beyond.
Warms regards,
