To Be, Rather Than to Seem

Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, the Academy of the Holy Names is a Catholic, coeducational elementary school and a college preparatory high school for young women.


Our Mission

The Academy of the Holy Names is a Catholic, independent school founded and guided by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. In a faith community of exceptional love, the Academy empowers students to be authentic individuals who, in pursuing their highest academic potential, engage in critical thinking, are inspired by creativity, and lead culturally aware, spiritually rich lives.

The Academy's motto is Esse Quam Videri, or "To Be, Rather Than to Seem."
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Our Vision

The Academy's mission reflects the core values of the Sisters of the Holy Names and calls students to develop their full potential. Our motto, clearly understood and acted upon, encourages students:

To Be More

Portrait of a Graduate

Middle School

In the pursuit of academic excellence, AHN challenges its graduates to be life-long learners who will serve others with integrity and compassion as stewards of the mission. The Academy is committed to educating 21st century students who are effective communicators and collaborators; globally aware, independent, confident and responsible learners and citizens; and critical and creative thinkers, innovators and problem solvers.

Portrait of a Graduate

High School

The Academy educates confident young women who are empowered and prepared to take on the next phase of their lives. Academy alumnae understand and appreciate our motto, Esse Quam Videri, or "To Be, Rather Than to Seem."

AHN Diversity Statement

The Academy of the Holy Names believes that a broadly diverse community fosters empathy, strengthens teaching and learning, and promotes academic excellence. To that end, the Academy is committed to:

  • building and sustaining a diverse and inclusive community of students, faculty and staff that shares our beliefs and supports our mission;
  • recognizing and appreciating the variety of characteristics that make individuals unique; and
  • creating an environment that promotes and celebrates individual and collective achievement.

Our School Seal




  • The Lamp of Knowledge glows above and throughout the ideals of the school.
  • The Cross and Three Lilies represent the vocational call of the Sisters of the Holy Names and their vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.
  • The Dove symbolizes the Holy Spirit who dwells within our hearts and minds as we endeavor to live up to our ideals throughout the year.
  • The Open Book symbolizes all of the academic studies, from the humanities to modern languages.
  • The Atom depicts all the physical and social sciences offered at the Academy.
  • The Lyre represents the appreciation of the arts that students acquire through their courses and activities.
  • Esse Quam Videri, "To Be, Rather Than to Seem," is our school motto.