Our Pledge for Peace.

On September 21 (celebrated on campus on September 19), the Academy of the Holy Angels joined the global community in observing the United Nations’ International Day of Peace. Established in 1981 by the UN General Assembly, this day calls on people everywhere to strengthen the ideals of peace through acts of kindness, non-violence, and solidarity. The 2025 theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” emphasizes that peace is not passive; it requires intention and action from each of us.

Holy Angels students gathered in the courtyard around the school’s peace pole, a monument inscribed with the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth.” Here, students signed the peace pledge, symbolizing their personal commitment to compassion, respect, and understanding. This simple but powerful act unites the AHA community, reminding students that peace begins in daily choices, listening before reacting, standing up for others, and practicing kindness in big and small ways.

The annual peace pledge connects Holy Angels students with millions of people around the world who also pause on this day to reflect on the meaning of peace. By signing together, Angels affirm that creating a more just and harmonious world is not the responsibility of a few, but of all. The peace pole stands as a daily reminder on campus, but the true measure of the pledge is carried forward through the students’ words, actions, and spirit of sisterhood throughout the year.

Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girls’ school in Bergen County. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many cultural and religious backgrounds. AHA’s current leaders continue to further the SSND mission to provide each student with the tools she needs to reach the fullness of her potential—spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically, by offering a first-rate education in a nurturing environment where equal importance is placed on academic excellence, character development, moral integrity, and service to others.