AHA Traditions

At the Academy of the Holy Angels, our traditions are the heart of our school community, shaping the experiences and values of every student. Rooted in faith, service, and excellence, these time-honored customs unite generations of Angels in sisterhood and purpose.

Angel for a Day

During an Angel for a Day visit, prospective students are paired with a sophomore Ambassador, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. This one-on-one mentorship allows visitors to get a true feel for daily life at AHA.

Future students are encouraged to actively engage in classroom discussions, participate in hands-on lab activities, and collaborate on group projects. Our tradition helps visitors gain a realistic understanding of the academic environment and student life at AHA. Additionally, a complimentary lunch is provided, offering a chance to relax and connect with current students.

Angelic Evening

Angelic Evening is a highly anticipated annual social gathering and fundraising event, graciously organized by the AHA Parents’ Guild. This elegant and festive affair plays a vital role in supporting AHA’s mission and various programs, ensuring continued educational excellence.

Guests will enjoy a delightful cocktail hour, followed by a sophisticated sit-down dinner, live music, and an evening of dancing. The event also features both silent and live auctions, offering exciting opportunities to bid on exclusive items and experiences. Every ticket purchased and every bid placed directly contributes to enriching student education by funding scholarships and academic initiatives, making a meaningful difference in their futures.

Feast Day

Feast Day is a celebration that honors the historic signing of the deed for the Academy of the Holy Angels’ original campus in Fort Lee, which took place on October 2, 1879. On that day, Sister Mary Nonna Dunphy, a member of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND), officially signed the document, securing the foundation of the Academy. The date coincided with the Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels, a significant religious observance. In recognition of this special occasion, the Academy adopted its name from the holiday, cementing a deep connection between its mission and the day of its establishment.

Junior Ring Ceremony

The Junior Ring Ceremony at the Academy of the Holy Angels is a cherished tradition that celebrates the school’s rich legacy and the strong bonds among its students. This special event provides an opportunity for juniors to receive their class rings, symbolizing their journey through high school and their connection to the Academy’s values. It is also a moment for students to reflect on their academic experiences, personal growth, and the lasting friendships they have formed along the way.

AHA Fashion Show

Our annual Fashion show is a special tradition that supports AHA programs and brings people together for a fun and memorable day.

Guests  enjoy an afternoon full of excitement, starting with a lively cocktail hour and a room filled with tricky tray prizes. After that, a delicious lunch is served, leading up to the main event—the much-anticipated fashion show. This showcase features beautiful outfits modeled by members of the upcoming graduating class, making it a highlight of the day and a truly unforgettable experience.

Catholic Schools Week

The Academy of the Holy Angels embraces the spirit of Catholic Schools Week (starting the last Sunday in January) with a variety of events celebrating faith, service, and academic excellence. These can include open houses, service projects, prayer services or Masses, and special events to celebrate the students and faculty. The week highlights the unique aspects of Catholic education, like its focus on academic excellence, moral development, and service to others.

Catholic Schools Week also provides an opportunity for schools to thank parents, students, and the broader community for their support and involvement in education. It is a time to reflect on the mission of Catholic schools and to encourage ongoing commitment to both academic and spiritual growth.

SSND Foundation Day

SSND Foundation Day commemorates the establishment of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, founded on October 24, 1833, by Caroline Gerhardinger (later known as Blessed Mother Theresa of Jesus) and her two companions in Bavaria. In response to the widespread closure of convent schools following the French Revolution and Enlightenment, Mother Theresa dedicated her life to ensuring access to quality education, particularly for young girls.

Each year, the Holy Angels community observes this anniversary with reflection, prayer, and the renewal of vows, honoring the SSND’s enduring mission. Through their work in schools, nurseries, and orphanages, the SSNDs have left a lasting impact on education and social justice. Foundation Day serves as a reminder of their dedication and inspires future generations to continue their legacy of service and learning.