Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The mission of the AHA Diversity Council is to honor the AHA philosophy that says: “The Academy welcomes students from many different communities, ethnic backgrounds and religious affiliations.” In the spirit of the School Sisters of Notre Dame the Diversity Council will actively encourage the environment existing within the school that respects and values the dignity of each person thus enabling her to reach the fullness of her potential.

• The Diversity Council is composed of students from each grade level.

• The Diversity Council seeks to work collaboratively with the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as well as with clubs and cultural organizations in the school.

• The Diversity Council brings suggestions and concerns regarding community life to the AHA administration.

In keeping with the SSND mission of working toward the “oneness for which Jesus Christ was sent,” we are committed to addressing issues of and facilitating dialogue about inclusion and diversity within our community.

The Dialogue Room is a brave space to discuss topics that are not necessarily covered in class or in clubs. It is important to remember that the concept of dialogue includes the ability to actively listen. The goals of the Dialogue Room are to educate and to raise awareness on social issues and to equip students with the skills they will need to discuss difficult topics with others.

STATEMENT OF THE AREA OF STUDY

After recent events occurring nationally, locally and even within our Holy Angels community, we have come to recognize that in order to fully support our mission of educating young women to “be leaders who recognize the dignity of all persons and promote justice and peace and care for all of God’s creation” we need to improve our cultural proficiency. We must challenge students and community members to be independent critical thinkers on social issues that affect our lives and that perpetuate racism and all biases in our society. We wish to nurture within our school a culture and atmosphere of respect and inclusion that fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of diversity.