Celebrating Jen Epps: 31 Years of Dedication and a New Chapter at AHN

With deep appreciation, we announce a transition in the role of Jennifer Reina Epps ’84, a beloved member of our Academy of the Holy Names family. After 31 years of dedicated service as a Pre-K teacher, Jen has decided to retire from full-time teaching at the end of this school year and will move into a part-time support role for the Lower School starting in August.

Jen’s retirement from full-time teaching will mark the end of a significant chapter in her career, but we are thrilled she will continue to be an integral part of our AHN community. In her new role, Jen will assist with SNJM Charism education in coordination with Mission & Ministry, providing classroom support—particularly in science and fine arts—and assisting with admissions during Pre-K screenings.

Throughout her 31 years at AHN, Jen has undoubtedly left a lasting mark on our youngest students, creating a warm, welcoming space called Happy Land where each child felt loved, nurtured, and supported. Her positivity, infectious smile, and boundless energy have made her a cherished presence at AHN, and while she will be missed in the classroom, we are grateful she will continue to shape our community in new ways.

Reflecting on Her Journey

Jen’s deep affection for the Academy and the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary is evident in everything she does. As a graduate of the Class of 1984, an SNJM Associate, and the Academy's Alumna of the Year in 2011, Jen’s connection to AHN spans generations. Her family’s legacy at AHN is also deeply rooted: her sister, Jacqueline Reina Harden ’79, currently serves as a trustee, and her mother, Sylvia Guagliardo Reina ’58, was honored as Alumna of the Year in 1998. Jen and her husband, Jon, are proud parents to Spencer ’16 and William ’13, both of whom attended the Academy from Pre-K through 8th grade.

In reflecting on her journey at AHN, Jen is inspired by the words of Blessed Marie Rose Durocher, foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Names. She shares, "Fire symbolizes warmth and light, much like the nurturing environment we foster at the Academy of the Holy Names. As we move forward, I am filled with faith that we will continue to uphold and honor the legacy of the Sisters of the Holy Names and the mission of our Academy, ensuring that this fire burns brightly for generations to come."

A Celebration of Jen’s Legacy

As a community, we are excited to celebrate Jen’s remarkable career at several upcoming events:

• A tribute at the closing Faculty and Staff Mass and Luncheon
• Special recognition at the Alumni Reunion Weekend Brunch on June 1
• A private divisional gathering with family and SNJM Associates (date TBD)

We also invite you to share your personal stories, photos, and well-wishes for Jen via Thankbox, a platform to express our collective gratitude for her incredible impact at AHN. 

Click Here to Share a Message for Mrs. Epps

If you would like to send Jen a private note, you may drop off letters at the front desk or mail them to the Academy. We will collect these letters on her behalf and ensure they are delivered to her.

Mailing Address:
Jen Epps
c/o Maureen Martineau
Academy of the Holy Names
3319 Bayshore Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33629

We are deeply thankful to Jen for her decades of service and faithful commitment to the Academy. Please join us in celebrating her and the lasting legacy she continues to build at AHN.