EmpoweredGirls Capital Campaign Update

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In 2019 The Academy of the Holy Cross introduced the #EmpoweredGirls capital campaign. The campaign’s quiet phase began after several focusgroup meetings that included parents/guardians, alumnae, faculty/staff, and students to discuss the most critical needs and dreams for the future of the Academy. There were many participants and ideas, but ultimately everyone agreed on the following priorities: accessibility, safety, and parking and a new athletic facility. The Sisters of the Holy Cross sold Saint Angela Hall and surrounding property (approximately eight acres) to the highly respected developers, EYA and Brandywine, in 2020. As a result of that sale, the Academy was offered the opportunity to sell an adjacent portion of our 28 acres to the same team of developers.

Top priority was given to what is most important to our mission – safety, inclusiveness, and accessibility. Guests and newcomers often had difficulty finding our front entrance and those with physical challenges could not navigate our front entrance, the first floor of the building, and most recently, Ridgway Field. The Academy made this initiative a priority. By fall of 2021 a new, modified front entrance and access ramp had been completed. An ADA ramp to Ridgway Field has been designed and will allow improved access for wheelchairs and strollers.

The second critical need is a new athletic and wellness center. The current gym was built in 1966 and simply does not meet the needs of a competitive athletic program. Spectators are unable to find adequate seating for games and with limited space were often put in harm’s way. The space does not allow the community to gather for events, school-wide assemblies, pep rallies, or other school activities. Having a space designed where student athletes can practice, develop skills, and have a sense of belonging is critical for our girls and for future Tartans who are looking for a facility that will enrich their experience and bolster school spirit. Plans for the new Athletic & Wellness Center will enhance our already excellent sports program and create countless opportunities for our students and Holy Cross community. The sale of this parcel would enable us to significantly improve our facilities in ways that we could never otherwise accomplish. The sale of the property, combined with a $4.5 million campaign, will allow us to accomplish this. In the first phase of fundraising, we have secured over $3 million in gifts and pledges from generous benefactors. The second phase of the campaign began this past May and with a goal of $1.5 million by spring of 2023.

Our hope is to reach our fundraising goal of $4.5 million by the end of 2022 and begin the construction process in 2023. If you are interested in learning more about the new Athletic & Wellness Center and how your gift can make an impact, please contact the Advancement Office.