On the Job: Mount Saint Joseph Academy

Traditions build a school and its legacy. Mount Saint Joseph Academy has its fair share of traditions. From Alumnae Induction, to Commencement, Freshmen Fest and the Golden Girls Luncheon (I’d like an invite to that please); they are always recognizing and celebrating their past and current students and I am here for it.

When Mount Saint Joseph Academy called me to capture their annual Founders’ Day, I was excited to document this tradition and learn more about the history of the school and its community.

Founders’ Day is an annual celebration honoring the founding of the congregation's and The Academy. The Mount Community gathers first for an assembly, followed by a walk to the Chapel at the Motherhouse. The afternoon brings the community together to celebrate the occasion.

In addition to visiting on Founders’ Day, The Mount had me back on campus last fall for a half day marketing shoot. We planned for me to capture some lifestyle images to update their website and marketing images–probably my favorite thing to do.

I had never put much thought into the benefits of single-sex education until I started capturing events at schools like The Mount and The Baldwin School. The Mount believes that single-sex learning environment cultivates strong, socially responsible, and intellectual women leaders–and from the women and girls I’ve met through this work, I would wholeheartedly agree.

As my morning at The Mount unfolded, it became increasingly evident that the spirit of sisterhood and empowerment permeated every aspect of life on campus. In the interactions between the students, there was a real sense of support and camaraderie. Whether they were sharing a joke between shots or knowing glances between one another, it was clear that these young women saw each other not just as classmates, but as sisters on a shared journey of growth and discovery.

It’s evident that the school provides a nurturing environment where these students are encouraged to pursue their passions and dreams. Through academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or community service projects, they are given the tools and resources to excel and make a positive impact in the world around them.

In capturing this community through my lens, I hoped to convey not just the outward beauty of the students, but the inner strength and resilience that stemmed from their sense of sisterhood and empowerment. It is always a privilege to witness and document the profound impact of such supportive and empowering communities!