Over the years, MSJA has built a strong record of academic outcomes, athletic achievements and alumnae success—all accomplished with infrastructure from the 1960s. It is now entering a defining period of transformation with a $20 million capital campaign, Beyond Pearls, which will upgrade the campus facilities to match the talent and ambition its students have consistently demonstrated.
Currently under construction is a state-of-the-art Athletic Center, opening in Fall 2026, built as a multi-purpose hub for the academy's co-curricular programs. Nearly 70 percent of students compete across 13 varsity teams. Beyond athletics, the facility will support robotics competitions, performances and community gatherings, reflecting MSJA's commitment to co-curricular engagement as a core part of the student experience. A new Welcome Center will serve as the main entrance, and arts and performance spaces will also be expanded. The campaign has already raised 40 percent of its goal with multiple million-dollar gifts demonstrating extraordinary community confidence in MSJA's mission and future.
"For 168 years, Mount Saint Joseph Academy has transformed young women into founders, not followers. This recognition is a testament to the transformative education we provide–one that prepares young women not only for academic success, but for lives of purpose, service and leadership," says Sister Charlene Diorka, SSJ, President.
The campaign coincides with renewed leadership momentum. Over the last five years, Sister Charlene has set a clear strategic direction for MSJA. Principal Dr. Melissa Sullivan, who joined in July 2025, has strengthened that trajectory. With a PhD from the University of Delaware, Harvard leadership credentials and 15 years in Catholic and independent education, Dr. Sullivan brings a philosophy of ‘limitless learning’ that advances an agenda honoring the academy's legacy while embracing innovation in girls' education.
Academically, MSJA distinguishes itself through a block schedule that allows for extended class periods. This structure deepens student–teacher relationships while giving students greater autonomy to work independently, collaborate in groups and use shared learning spaces beyond the classroom. Student feedback demonstrates that the block schedule boosts their concentration on coursework and also allows them to devote more time to co-curricular pursuits.
Just as every pearl is shaped through time, care and perseverance, so is every MSJA woman. Beyond Pearls is a celebration of that journey—of her growth, her confidence, her leadership and her light.
“At MSJA, we prepare students to go out into the world as agents of change, unity and reconciliation," says Kimberly Reilly, Director of Marketing and Communications.
Emotional support is a key component of MSJA's approach. A dedicated learning team, including a school psychologist and long-tenured learning specialists, works closely with faculty to support students with diverse learning profiles and help them navigate academic and personal challenges. The model reflects a deeply embedded culture of care, with continuity and trust at its core.
College guidance emphasizes fit over prestige, prioritizing long-term student success and well-being. MSJA's 100 percent post-secondary enrollment rate exemplifies this. Student wellness is reinforced through regular contemplative and mindfulness instruction alongside liturgical opportunities provided through campus ministry. These efforts are supported by the Office of Mission and Inclusion, led by Executive Director and alumna Nikki West ‘87.
Daily grade-based advisory sessions and weekly meetings give students time to reflect on their purpose. These structured, theme-driven sessions focus on college readiness, personal development and meaningful engagement with alumnae, whose lives and careers illustrate the many paths forward after graduation.
As MSJA enters its next chapter through Beyond Pearls, it continues strengthening its role as a center of innovation, collaboration and community within the region.
