You’re Welcome! Holy Angels Hosts Reception for Class of 2026

 You’re welcome at Holy Angels! This positive message permeated every aspect of the Academy’s COVID-conscious Admitted Students Reception for the Class of 2026.

AHA Admissions Director Michèle McGovern and Assistant Director Jennifer Bullis agree that the energy and excitement were palpable at the Sunday, January 23, event. Turnout was excellent, and, for the first time, included eighth graders from the new AHA Middle School. 

Violinist Samantha Shah and pianist Myra Bocage, both of whom are members of the Class of ’22 and the Tri-M honor society, entertained guests at check-in. Angel Ambassadors, administrators, faculty, staff, and parent volunteers provided guidance and insiders’ tips, and answered a multitude of questions about every aspect of life at AHA from transportation to course selection.  

Families also heard from Olivia Martinez (AHA ’21), who spoke fondly about her years at the Academy. A few months earlier, Martinez delivered the senior response at graduation. This Barnard College freshman thrived in AHA’s all-girl environment, where she helped the varsity dance team earn three national titles. She was also active with Student Council, the Black and Hispanic Cultural Society, and Girl Rising.

Parents were ushered into a special information session, where they spoke with AHA President Melinda Hanlon, Dean of Academics Carmen Quiñones, Dean of Students Andréa Beyer, Athletic Director Patti Gorsuch, and Mrs. McGovern.

One proud attendee shared that his daughters are AHA alumnae, and his granddaughter is now a member of the AHA Class of 2026.

In a post-event survey, one respondent described the reception as an excellent way to help incoming ninth graders and their parents.

“The parent volunteers were great! I got a real sense of how much they are vested in your community,” one family member said after speaking with current AHA parents.

Another person wrote, “The Q&A sessions were very good and informative, and my daughter liked the student time.”

The future freshmen had time to meet and mingle with current Angel Ambassadors and future classmates. Each student received a gift bag packed with a delectable hot chocolate “spoon,” and a mug and a knit hat that are embellished with the AHA logo.

The reception concluded with a performance by members of AHA’s dance team. Both the varsity and JV squads are currently the reigning national champs.

“I think everything was great, and I loved meeting new people and making new friends,” one reception participant said.

Another family simply stated, “We love Holy Angels!” 

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.