Message from the President

Dear Norwood-Fontbonne Academy Community,

We began this year embracing a favorite phrase of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. When the sisters first arrived in Philadelphia, Archbishop Kenrick described them as “ready for any good work.” This year has provided great challenges, but our community has more than risen to the challenge. Our students, faculty and staff could not be more resilient and resourceful in the response to adversity.

On November 29, 2020, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of our founding. One hundred years before, nine sisters, 48 boarders and six day students walked up the steps of the Big House, and a legacy was begun. While current conditions have restricted what in-person celebrations we have been able to hold, we have found creative ways to celebrate and look forward to many events planned for the fall.

Norwood-Fontbonne Academy’s Strategic Plan, Directed Toward Tomorrow, continues to drive all that we do each day at NFA. Rooted in the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and built upon the legacy of 100 years, this plan reflects our commitment to provide the highest quality, formative educational experience, for today and for all our tomorrows.

Directed Toward Tomorrow centers on five goal areas: Identity & Relationship, Student Experience, Belonging & Inclusion, Vitality & Stewardship, and Campus Environment. Each goal area has objectives that will be met throughout the plan’s five-year implementation. We’ll update you in this issue of the magazine.

We have only just begun! Excitement continues to build as we continue to implement this plan. In and out of the classroom, NFA continues to grow stronger and deepen our commitment to our mission.

This year also marks 20 years of our innovative Service-Learning program at NFA, in which our students put faith into action. As the Sisters of Saint Joseph have taught us, in words and action, it is only through relationship that we fully witness God’s love. Thank you for being in relationship with Norwood-Fontbonne Academy.

In Christ’s Peace,

Ryan Killeen, Ed.D.

PRESIDENT