Published: December 2, 2024
AYA Integrated Science, University of Toledo
Returning to NDA as a Faculty member has been an exciting adventure! My time here at NDA as a student was unique and powerful. I know that my time at NDA as a student prepared me for college and the real world!
Being on the other side of the NDA experience, I have a deeper understanding and appreciation for the NDA community and culture. Now being able to foster a community of growth and connection with the NDA students is a great pleasure. It is fulfilling to know that I am able to contribute to the NDA community that shaped me into the person I am today.
As I look forward to the rest of the year, I am excited to continue my journey with the NDA community. Returning to NDA truly feels like a homecoming reunion!
Bachelor of Science- Athletic Training, University of Wisconsin - Madison
Masters of Science - Exercise Science, University of Toledo
When I first joined NDA, I was still new to the Toledo area and unfamiliar with the school. The previous athletic trainer, who believed I would be a great fit for this community, encouraged me to take on the role—and looking back, I am incredibly grateful for that opportunity. Over the past three years as NDA’s athletic trainer, I have come to truly appreciate the school’s unique environment and its unwavering commitment to fostering both academic excellence and personal growth among its students.
At NDA, the mission statement isn’t just words on a wall; it’s a guiding principle that is fully embraced by the entire school community. This commitment is demonstrated daily by students, faculty, and staff, creating a supportive and inspiring culture that made my decision to start teaching Health an exciting next step. I feel truly blessed to be part of a community where everyone is wholeheartedly invested in the success of every student.
B.A. AYA Integrated Mathematics with STEM, The University of Akron
I first heard about Notre Dame Academy through family and friends who live in the area. They could not stop gushing about how great of a school it is and how well they prepare their students for life after high school. When my husband and I first found out that we would be moving to Toledo in early August, I immediately started looking for a job that would feel welcoming, uplifting, and close-knit amongst those who work there. I came across NDA and after meeting with some of the faculty and staff, I knew that it was a special place. The community that they have created amongst their faculty/staff and students/parents is incredibly special. I felt the passion from those working at the school and knew that it would be a great fit for me. The NDA community continues to inspire me on a daily basis. Whether that be inspiration from coworkers or from students, the people at NDA make it an amazing place to be!
AYA Language Arts (6th-12th)/Theatre, Bowling Green State University
It feels amazing to be back at NDA as a member of the faculty. I have very fond memories of my time at Notre Dame Academy (especially my time spent in the theatre department at NDA). I loved being in the plays, musicals and competing in the speech and debate competitions. Now that I am a faculty and I get to direct the plays, musicals and be one of the speech team coaches, it is like a dream come true!
Assistant to the Dean of Students
What inspired me to join the NDA community was the positive reputation of the school, how welcoming everyone is and the family/work balance. My kids, husband and family are everything to me and knowing that I can work for such a reputable school and still feel like I am not "missing out" on anything related to my family is an absolute win-win in my opinion. Having this balance makes you want to come into NDA and work as hard as you can because you know they respect and appreciate you.
AYA Integrated Science Education, University of Toledo
Strategic Communication and Social Media, Bowling Green State University
With my short time here, I have been very impressed with the resilience the girls here have. It is not easy to be an NDA student because NDA is a college prep school with high expectations, so students coming in from other schools need to level up very quickly to get with the pace. On that note, I am very impressed with the amount of support and care the staff and faculty provide to students to help them shape up to the best version of themselves that they strive for.
Having your first full week at a new job fall over 8th grade visitation is a sure way to win you over into chanting Let's Go NDA. The excitement on campus my first few days here was contagious. I will always remember being part of a faculty/staff choreographed dance when most people didn't even know my name yet! Attending pep rallies, and being welcomed in as part of the team during those days really made me feel like I had made the right choice joining the staff here at NDA. I don't see how there any is anyway I won't always remember how loud NDA can get - what a welcome.
Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy, The University of Toledo
Master of Art with a concentration in School Counseling, The University of Toledo
As I settle in here at NDA I am looking forward to so much! I am excited to continue to explore all of the traditions here at NDA. I am most excited to continue to meet every single one of my students and work to build a rapport with all of them. I am looking forward to continuing to meet other colleagues outside of the counseling office. I have a lot of new faces to get to know, but it has been so fun meeting everyone! Everyone has been so kind and welcoming!
Organizational Leadership and Management, University of Toledo
Returning to NDA as a staff member has been an incredible experience. It is both nostalgic and inspiring to walk through our halls again. Seeing girls in our plaid with books and binders in arms and purses slung over shoulders reminds me of my own time spent in the classrooms they are rushing off too.
Athletics played a major role in my high school experience, serving not only as a source of excitement and connection but also as a foundation for my personal growth. Now that I’m a part of the athletic department that once provided me with invaluable opportunities and support, I’m eager to help our current and future student-athletes thrive and succeed. I feel very blessed to continue to build upon and further strengthen our athletic department and programs for our girls.
It is very rewarding to be back, and overall, it feels like I’ve come full circle. I view it as a privilege to play a part in NDA’s legacy in this new capacity.
There have been so many wonderful moments already during my short time as an NDA Eagle. On Field Day, my TCB and I had so much fun. We came in 2nd place in three events before finishing first in the obstacle course. Somewhere there is a video of a bucket of water being dumped on my head by my 1st place team as we celebrate! Whether it is making memories or making learning happen, there have been so many special moments - with many more to come!
Social Work, Lourdes University
As I settle into the school year and working at NDA, I am most excited about working with the students. I am excited to learn about Jesus's relationship with each of the students. Jesus speaks to everyone in a way that is special and unique to them. I love hearing and seeing how the Holy Spirit is working in the girls. I am humbled and amazed by God in how He speaks to me in and through the girls. Jesus loves us so much and wants to be in a relationship with His beloved children. I am excited to see how the Lord will use me to be His Hands and Feet and to share His Love with everyone. Jesus, please grant me the grace to show Your Love to all I meet.
It is a special experience to be an alumna on staff at NDA. It's meaningful to me that many traditions continue, and that every generation of students has the opportunity to create new ones. That makes me feel connected to today's students, and that we're all part of the same thread with every woman who has been a student at NDA in the past, and those who will be here in the future.
I enjoy that many spaces like the Dining Commons, Chapel, Senior Lounge, and many classrooms still look so much the same, but that campus has been updated and outfitted to deliver a 21st century education (with air conditioning!). When I was a student here, I wouldn't have believed that so many years later I would still feel so "at home" in these hallways. It is a great gift to have the opportunity to work at my alma mater.
Spanish & Communications, University of Cincinnati
As I settle into NDA, I am most excited for the students for how they will surprise themselves in what they are capable of, especially in the area of language learning! I am excited to see the students discover new strengths and skills. Language learning is difficult, but the moment you begin to understand what you are hearing and reading is a special feeling. You begin to realize that you can do difficult things, and that words that were once foreign are now familiar to you!
NDA’s all-girls environment impresses me in numerous ways, every day. I love how it encourages a sense of community and empowerment among students while also focusing on teamwork and supporting one another. In the all-girls setting, I feel that students often feel more comfortable expressing themselves, sharing ideas, and taking risks academically and socially.
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