St. Mary’s Academy has always been dedicated to supporting the most marginalized members of our local and global community through education and service. Our Service Learning Program provides growth, perspective, and purpose for our High School students, and the Class of 2024 was no exception. 

Kelly-green cords donned the necks of 85% of the Class of 2024 at graduation, representing the highest number of students graduating with Service Honors in St. Mary’s Academy history. These remarkable young alumnae didn’t complete their service just for the cords; they are genuinely committed to improving the world. 

During their Senior year alone, these extraordinary students dedicated over 3,400 hours to serving 34 nonprofit organizations. Perhaps even more impressive is that they dedicated 8,200 hours of service throughout their high school careers, which was 2,500 hours beyond their requirement.

Their impact extends far beyond the number of hours logged; it is the depth of their commitment and the breadth of their influence that truly sets them apart. Service is not just a box to check or a line to add to their resumes — it is part of who they are. 100% of the Class of 2024 plans to continue serving at nonprofits even now that they have graduated, a testament to their character.

Some of the Class of 2024’s service experiences have guided their educational paths, leading them to choose their universities based on their community and service involvements. Service catalyzed self-discovery, helping them realize their passions and creating paths toward meaningful and fulfilling careers. From working with children to advocating for environmental protection, their experiences have broadened their horizons and ignited their sense of purpose.

The Class of 2024 served meals at the Delores Project and Denver Rescue Mission; built homes with Habitat for Humanity and provided wardrobes at Clothes to Kids; combated food insecurity with Metro Caring and the Food Bank of the Rockies; provided comfort to patients at The Children’s Hospital and Swedish Medical Center; were camp counselors at Adams Camp and worked in child advocacy law centers; and they deeply bonded with the host community during the Spring Break Costa Rica Service Trip. From working with horses to supporting elderly individuals in assisted living and so much more, their service knows no limits.

What is most remarkable about the Class of 2024 is not the magnitude of their achievements but the depth of their humanity. In a world too often defined by division and conflict, these young alumnae provide hope, reminding us of the boundless potential of the human spirit.

As they embark on the next chapter of their lives, they may carry the lessons learned, and the perspectives gained, knowing their journey is just beginning. While our world thirsts for peace and understanding, may the St. Mary’s Academy Class of 2024 stand as exemplary beacons of hope and compassion, just as they have in our community over the past four years.