A Legacy of Tradition
At Mount St. Mary Academy, we cherish a rich legacy of traditions that have been passed down through generations of Mounties. While we embrace innovation and adapt to the changing world, our core values remain steadfast. Throughout their four years, students actively participate in events that foster a strong sense of community and shape their identities as young women. These cherished traditions, deeply rooted in our history, create a unique sisterhood that bonds our students together. Even after graduation, our alumnae maintain close ties with the Mount, often returning to celebrate and share their successes with the current generation of Mounties.
As a student at MSM, your daughter can look forward to participating in the following:
Bells of St. Mary
A cornerstone of our school tradition, the ‘Bells of St. Mary’ is learned by freshmen at orientation. It is sung at the close of every Mass and school function, culminating in a special verse sung by seniors at graduation.
Spirit Retreats
Each year, every class at Mount St. Mary participates in a spiritual retreat that focuses on developing and strengthening both faith and the lifelong friendships created at MSM.
Spirit Week
Spirit Week features themed dress, lunch games, grade-level lip-syncs, a pep rally, and more. Mounties enthusiastically participate, showcasing Thunder spirit and fostering school unity through team and class activities.
Winter Semi-Formal Dance
All students are invited to the annual winter semi-formal. Whether attending with a date or a group of friends, it promises to be an unforgettable evening.
Father-Daughter Dance
All students and their fathers or father-like figures are invited to enjoy a night of dinner and dancing. This is a wonderful night of celebrating family.
Mother-Daughter Mass & Brunch
Students and their mothers or mother-like figures are welcome to join us for Mass in the auditorium of MSM and a beautiful brunch. We thank our Parent Association for hosting this beautiful event each year.
Junior Ring Mass
On December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, junior class receives their class rings from the Principal and alumnae family members. This marks the first of several ‘red rose ceremonies’ honoring upperclassmen at Mount St. Mary Academy.
Prom
Juniors and seniors celebrate the end of the year with a prom in May.
Senior Sunrise & Sunset
This tradition bookends the senior year, beginning with a sunrise breakfast on the lawn and culminating in a sunset celebration featuring lawn games, chalk art, and yearbook signing.
Baccalaureate Mass & Commencement
Following Communion, seniors, adorned in white gowns and carrying red roses, receive diplomas on stage. The Alumnae Association welcomes them into their ranks. A pinnacle of the ceremony is the Mount St. Mary Award, presented to a graduate embodying the school’s values: service, Christian spirit, and respect for the Mount St. Mary community.
Carols & Christmas Brunch
Before Christmas Break, we welcome recent graduates back to MSM for a day of song and prayerful reflection in the auditorium. Brunch provides an opportunity for graduates to reconnect with faculty and staff.
Alumnae Weekend
All of our alumnae are invited to come back to the Mount to enjoy the festivities of Alumnae Weekend. This annual event includes tours of the school, mass, and an opportunity to catch up with and meet fellow alumnae.
