From Tom Hood, President SAA-SDS
"Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus." - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Dear St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School Community,
When I selected this year’s scripture verse, I hoped it would inspire thankfulness in our community for all the Lord has blessed us with. I am personally grateful for all I have been given. It is with this spirit that I write this letter. After much reflection and prayerful consideration, I am writing to inform you that I will retire as President of St. Agnes Academy-St Dominic School on June 30, 2026, at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.
Mary-Lee and I have prayed extensively about this decision. Serving this extraordinary community for the past nine years has been one of my life's greatest honors and joys. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated achievements, and steadfastly upheld the Dominican traditions that are the foundation of our school. It has been a privilege to work alongside dedicated faculty, staff, students, parents, and alumnae, all of whom embody the values of Study, Prayer, Community, and Service.
During my tenure, I have had the opportunity to witness and contribute to our school's growth. We significantly increased the safety and security on our campus. We enhanced numerous academic, athletic, arts, social, and spiritual programs. We navigated a global pandemic, continuing our tradition of never closing and serving our students through any calamity. We completed a successful accreditation and are preparing for a second. Finally, we modernized our facilities, remodeling them when appropriate and building anew when needed. These accomplishments reflect the collective dedication of our community.
The decision to retire was not made lightly. I have always considered myself the caretaker of this special institution. It is time for that honor to be passed on to a new visionary leader. St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School is poised for continued success. I am confident that the board and leadership team, inspired by the love and support of the Dominican Sisters of Peace and Dominican Veritas Ministries, will guide the school to new heights.
The unwavering support of our dedicated Board of Trustees has been a blessing beyond measure. Throughout the last nine years, the Trustees have been guided by the dynamic leadership of Board Chairs Patrick Kruczek, Marta Patrick, Frank Lamanna, Molly Sicuro, and currently Travis LeMonte. Working with our exceptional Leadership Team and all our educators has been a delight and an honor. They have an unmatched passion for loving our students, partnering with our families, and building the best Dominican-Catholic institution anywhere. In short, they are the face of Christ in our community. I know our school has a bright future.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will work closely with the Board and my successor. You can count on my continued dedication to the mission and values of St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School, and I will always cherish my time here.
Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading St. Agnes Academy - St. Dominic School. It has been a privilege to contribute to its enduring legacy, and I am incredibly grateful for the support and collaboration of the entire community.
With heartfelt gratitude,
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