From the Heart, Community Voices

Community Voices

From the Heart


April 30, 2026

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All aboard! Chemin de Fer is on the way to the Academy: final destination, The Secret Garden. The campus is buzzing with activity as volunteers prepare for an enchanting evening. Erin Manning, Events and Hospitality Manager, shares her gratitude and excitement for what’s in store for our community this weekend.

The 52nd Chemin de Fer is almost here, and we can’t wait to see The Secret Garden come to life! Starting my new position at the Academy a month before our largest fundraiser has been a busy and joyful experience. In many ways, the campus has not changed much — and that’s a good thing! The historic and sacred grounds that our beloved St. Philippine walked is still meaningful and inspiring to me. Numerous staff and faculty that were here a while back are still here or have returned again, like me. This makes me realize that there is a purpose for us here at the Academy.

A bouquet of thanks to chairs Meghan and James Reed, along with the countless volunteers whose time and creativity have helped bring this magical evening together — especially through the breathtaking decor for the Academy’s biggest night.

Thank you to our dedicated faculty and staff for all they’ve done in preparation for May 2. It truly takes a garden … students, alumni, parents, grandparents, benefactors, and local businesses. We are also deeply grateful to our generous sponsors.

I have seen “community” at its best. What a great gift that we can give each other, to support our community and make it an even better place. St. Philippine is smiling on her school and all who have made this event possible!

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