“Embracing Faith, Family and Education” is the theme of Nazareth Academy High School, 4001 Grant Ave. (215-637-7676). Denise LePera is the first president of the school, something she describes as “a very special calling.” She spent some time recently with Don Brennan, GNPCC Director of Marketing for this Member Spotlight.)
Tell us about Nazareth Academy High School. I know it has a very rich tradition.
Nazareth Academy High School was founded in 1928 and is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. As the only private college preparatory high school for girls in Philadelphia, our mission of embracing faith, family, and education is the foundation of our proud 89-year tradition of educating young women. The environment at Nazareth Academy High School is rich in Catholic tradition and values. Our great school began with the prayers of Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. She wanted to institute a convent and school for young women in Philadelphia where Our Lord could be continually adored. On October 7, 1928 the building was dedicated by Cardinal (Dennis) Dougherty and the first class of 10 girls was established.
Today, Nazareth Academy High School enrolls 362 students. The faculty and staff inspire students to live their faith and develop their spirituality while challenging them through a rigorous academic curriculum. Our school boasts a 9-to-1 student to faculty ratio. We offer over 80 courses through our college preparatory scheduling. This includes 13 Advanced Placement courses, 22 honors courses, and a dual enrollment program for both high school and college credit through a partnership with Holy Family University.
In addition to a rigorous academic program, Nazareth Academy High School offers a rich variety of extracurricular activities. From 41 clubs, to 12 athletic teams and four different music groups, there is truly something for every girl to participate in at Nazareth. One of our proudest programs is our Christian Service program. On a yearly basis, Nazareth Academy High School students perform on average over 13,000 hours of service. Qualities such as respect, love and acceptance permeate the student’s educational experiences as our teachers shape Catholic girls into Catholic women.
You are the first president of the school, are you not?
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the first president of Nazareth Academy High School. I am genuinely humbled by the opportunity to be a part of the Nazareth sisterhood. I am grateful for the warm reception that I have received in this special place. Being the first president is a very special calling. I promise to set a legacy for all of those who will follow me.
What do you hope to accomplish by being a member of the GNPCC?
Being a Chamber member will help profile Nazareth Academy High School within the community. The networking opportunities will provide our students with resources and knowledge that would not have experienced. So exposure for Nazareth is great, but having our girls experience business networking and mentoring is so valuable. It is also our responsibility as leaders in the community to give back to that community for the benefit of all.
How can networking with area businesses help Nazareth Academy?
Providing Nazareth Academy with the most cost-effective products is critical to budgeting and to being a good steward of all our resources.
Tell us about you personally. Where you were born, went to school, hobbies, etc.
I was born in Elkton, MD and moved to the Philadelphia area in 1979. I got my bachelor of science and masters in strategic leadership from Neumann University. My husband of 35 years and I have two sons and two beautiful granddaughters. My family enjoys spending time at the Shore and you will likely see me with a good book in hand!