Business Details
Empowering Young Women Through Excellence in Education
Founded in 1877 by the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity, Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart has dedicated itself to educating young women through academic excellence, moral development, and service. Our institution pioneered advanced education for girls beyond domestic skills, offering rigorous programs in humanities, arts, and sciences while maintaining a commitment to Catholic values. Over 140 years, weve evolved with societal changes while preserving our Franciscan traditions of compassion, leadership, and community service. Our campus in Eggertsville, NY, opened in 1930, serves as a hub for innovative learning, housing state-of-the-art facilities and a history museum documenting our legacy. As an IB World School, we provide a globally recognized college preparatory curriculum tailored to how girls thrive academically and personally.Our sisterhood fosters lifelong friendships, collaborative learning, and empowerment through programs like the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and signature STEM initiatives. Athletics and arts programs cultivate discipline, creativity, and teamwork, complemented by service projects that extend learning beyond classrooms. We maintain non-discriminatory policies while welcoming students from diverse backgrounds across 26 school districts. Our alumnae network, spanning generations, reflects our success in nurturing confident, compassionate leaders prepared for college and life. Through continuous innovation and adherence to core values, we remain a beacon of transformative education for young women in Western New York.
Services
College Prep Programs
International Baccalaureate
Athletics Programs
Performing Arts
Summer Camps
College Counseling
STEM Education
Spiritual Development
Extracurricular Clubs
Financial Aid Programs
Highlights and features
- We offer 140+ years of excellence in girls' education with a focus on leadership and service.
- Our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program prepares students for global academic challenges.
- All-girls environment fosters confidence, collaboration, and personalized learning.
- Athletics and arts programs develop well-rounded individuals through teamwork and creativity.
- Franciscan values guide a curriculum integrating moral character with academic rigor.
Associations and certifications
- International Baccalaureate Organization
Services
International Baccalaureate Program
Our IB Diploma Program challenges students with a rigorous curriculum fostering critical thinking and global awareness. Students engage in interdisciplinary studies, extended essays, and community service projects. The program prepares graduates for top universities worldwide through academic excellence and holistic development.
All-Girls College Prep Curriculum
We provide a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum tailored to how girls learn best. Courses include advanced placement, honors, and STEM-focused electives. Our graduates consistently achieve high college acceptance rates and academic scholarships.
Athletics Programs
Our 14 varsity/junior varsity sports and club teams build leadership, teamwork, and discipline. Athletes participate in Sharks in Service projects, combining competition with community engagement. The program emphasizes lifelong fitness and sportsmanship.
Summer Camps
Summerspace camps offer educational and recreational opportunities for girls entering grades 5-9. Activities include STEM workshops, arts, and sports clinics. The program runs June-August with a focus on skill development and fun.
Spiritual Development
Daily religious instruction and retreats nurture spiritual growth aligned with Catholic teachings. Students engage in service projects and prayer groups. The program emphasizes Franciscan values of compassion, humility, and service.
People
Jennifer M. Demert
Head of School
Jennifer Demert leads SHA with a vision for empowering young women through innovative education. She champions academic excellence and Franciscan values, ensuring students receive holistic preparation for college and life.
Mary C. Ganey
Director of Admissions
Mary Ganey guides families through SHA's admissions process, highlighting the school's unique programs and sisterhood culture. She ensures prospective students understand the benefits of an all-girls education.
Michele Calandra
Director of Academics
Michele Calandra oversees SHA's academic programs, including the International Baccalaureate and AP courses. She focuses on creating collaborative, technology-rich learning environments that prepare students for global challenges.
Kristina Geschwender
Athletic Director
Kristina Geschwender leads SHA's athletics program, emphasizing leadership and teamwork. She manages 14 sports teams and community service initiatives that build character through competition and service.
Barbara J. Rooney
Student Life Coordinator
Barbara Rooney enriches student experiences through clubs, retreats, and service projects. She fosters a supportive community where students grow academically, spiritually, and socially through diverse extracurricular opportunities.
Questions
What grades does Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart serve?
We serve girls in grades 9 through 12, with summer programs for grades 5-9.
Is Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart a religious school?
Yes, we are a Catholic college-preparatory school rooted in Franciscan values.
What academic programs are unique to SHA?
We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and signature STEM initiatives.
Are there athletics programs available for students?
We provide 14 varsity/junior varsity sports and two club sports for student-athletes.
How does SHA support college preparation?
Our college counseling office guides students through applications, scholarships, and admissions.
Does SHA offer financial aid or scholarships?
Yes, we offer financial aid programs and scholarships to support student enrollment.
