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Academy Launches Light the Way Campaign, Announces Transformative Campus Enhancements

Academy Launches Light the Way Campaign, Announces Transformative Campus Enhancements
Academy Launches Light the Way Campaign, Announces Transformative Campus Enhancements
The Academy of the Holy Names has unveiled a new chapter of innovation and student support with the public launch of its Light the Way capital campaign, an initiative designed to strengthen wellness, athletics, spiritual life, the arts, and long-term student resources. At the center of this effort is the Murphy Health & Wellness Center, a fully reimagined hub for student health, athletic performance, and community connection.
 
Construction on the new facility is scheduled to begin in early 2026 with Ellison Construction, one of Tampa Bay’s premier builders, leading the project.
 
A Vision for Full Development of the Human Person
For Academy President Kevin Whitney, the campaign represents the Academy’s next bold step in shaping a campus that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.
 
“Over the past 15 years, we’ve made significant investments in our academic and arts facilities. Now we are turning our attention to the spaces that support the full formation of our students, including athletics, liturgy, music, wellness, and community,” said Whitney. “These enhancements are a direct reflection of our strategic plan and our commitment to strengthening every aspect of the student experience at the Academy.”
 
A New Home for Wellness and Athletics
The current one-story, 5,000-square-foot athletic facility will be transformed into a two-story, 13,369-square-foot Health and Wellness Center designed by Wannemacher Jensen Architects. The new center will dramatically expand opportunities for training, collaboration, and student engagement, featuring:
 
First-floor highlights
  • Significantly expanded fitness and weight room with all-new equipment
  • Modernized athletic training room
  • Sport-specific locker rooms
  • New spectator restrooms
  • Flex/film room for team meetings and video review
  • A versatile Athletic Commons for wellness programs and team gatherings
  • A nutrition learning space that will double as a game-day concessions area
  • Floor-to-ceiling interior glass and two large roll-up doors that open directly onto the athletic field
Second-floor additions
  • Covered, open-air spectator decks overlooking both major athletic fields
  • Two dedicated press boxes serving the soccer/lacrosse and softball fields
  • An e-sports and gaming studio
  • A state-of-the-art golf simulator for year-round training

Generous support from Brian and Renée Murphy has made this project possible. In recognition of their gift, the facility will be named the Murphy Health & Wellness Center.

“Our family has seen firsthand how the Academy of the Holy Names helps students grow into well-rounded individuals who are committed to excellence in all that they do,” the Murphys shared. “This world-class health and wellness facility will continue that tradition. We are proud to support something that will benefit future generations of young men and women in their athletic pursuits."

Leadership Support from the AHN Community
The Light the Way campaign is also fueled by significant leadership commitments from the Hyer and Rothman families, whose multi-generational ties to the Academy reflect a long-standing dedication to its mission. Additionally, we are thankful for the early support of many AHN families. Click here to view our Light the Way webpage that includes a list of those who have committed to the campaign.
 
In addition to philanthropic leadership, the project is supported by key partners who will help bring the vision to life. Cory Ellison, president of Ellison Construction, shared, “The Academy of the Holy Names is one of Florida’s most historic schools, and we’re honored to help carry its legacy forward through this next chapter,” said Ellison. “This new facility will serve generations of students and families, and we’re proud to play a role in building on the Academy’s tradition of excellence—both as local builders and as members of the broader AHN community.”
 
Strengthening the Student-Athlete Experience
As plans take shape, AHN’s athletic leadership anticipates a profound impact on both daily training and long-term program development.
 
“AHN’s commitment to our Health and Wellness Center further solidifies the school’s mission of the development of the whole child,” said Kevin Vargas, AHN Athletic Director. “ Additionally, the opportunities that will come from these new features will enhance programming and experiences for students, athletes, and members of our entire AHN community.”
 
Enhancements Across Campus
While the Murphy Health & Wellness Center is the signature project of the Light the Way campaign, several additional improvements will strengthen the student experience campus-wide:
 
  • Beautification and restoration of the Chapel of Blessed Marie Rose Durocher
  • Refurbishment of the Brady Center to enhance reverence and functionality during large school Masses
  • New turf on the softball and soccer/lacrosse fields
  • Additional campus parking to support growth and events
  • A premier instrumental music program, in line with our outstanding visual and performing arts program
  • Growth of the school’s endowment to increase financial aid and long-term student access
The comprehensive Light the Way campaign goal is $16.5 million.
 
Building on a 144-Year Legacy
Founded in 1881 and guided by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, the Academy today serves more than 1,000 students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The Light the Way campaign builds on generations of mission-driven growth, ensuring that students continue to learn, compete, worship, and create in spaces that reflect the excellence of the Academy’s values. The Academy will share ongoing updates with the community as construction begins and campaign milestones are reached.

 

 

For more information or ways to support the Light the Way Campaign, please contact the Director of Advancement Molly Smith '88 at 813-835-3522 or msmith@holynamestpa.org. 

 

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