Mount Saint Joseph Academy Named Top Catholic College Preparatory School 2026

Mount Saint Joseph Academy Named Top Catholic College Preparatory School 2026

National Recognition Caps Catholic Schools Week with Pride

January 31, 2026 – What a way to close out Catholic Schools Week! Mount Saint Joseph Academy has been named Top Catholic College Preparatory School 2026 by Education Insider Magazine—a prestigious, peer-nominated national honor recognizing the Mount's excellence in faith-based education, academic achievement, and student development.

Following rigorous evaluation by a panel of C-level executives, industry thought leaders, and educational experts, the Mount emerged as a standout among Catholic schools nationwide.

"This recognition is a testament to the transformative education we provide – one that prepares young women not only for academic success, but for lives of purpose, service, and leadership," said Sister Charlene Diorka, SSJ, President of Mount Saint Joseph Academy. "We are honored to be recognized among Catholic schools leading the way in forming students of character rooted in faith and committed to making a difference in the world."

A School on the Move

The Mount's recognition comes during a period of transformational growth. Under the visionary leadership of Sister Charlene and Dr. Melissa Sullivan, Principal, Mount Saint Joseph Academy is advancing an ambitious agenda that honors its 168-year legacy while embracing innovation in girls' education.

Dr. Sullivan brings distinguished expertise to the Mount, including a PhD from the University of Delaware, Harvard leadership credentials, and 15 years of leadership in Catholic and independent education. Her philosophy of "limitless learning" builds powerfully on the school's mission of empowering young women to shape the future.

The recognition also comes as the Mount advances Beyond Pearls: The Campaign for Mount Saint Joseph Academy, a $20 million initiative that has already secured multiple million-dollar gifts and reached 40% of its goal. The comprehensive campus transformation includes a state-of-the-art Athletic Center set to open Fall 2026, a new Welcome Center, and expanded arts and performance spaces.

Excellence in Action

Mount Saint Joseph Academy's honor reflects measurable achievement:

• Recently recognized as a PLATINUM school on the 2025 AP School Honor Roll
• Named a U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School
• 100% post-secondary enrollment rate
• Nearly 500 students served with a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio
• More than 5,000 alumnae carrying the Mount mission worldwide

"To be peer-nominated and recognized by industry leaders validates the exceptional work our faculty, staff, and entire Mount community do every day," said Dr. Sullivan. "We are committed to creating a student-centered, collaborative environment where every young woman can realize her fullest potential."

This honor belongs to all of us. It reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, students, alumnae, families, the Sisters of Saint Joseph, and all our supporters who together foster a vibrant community rooted in faith, excellence, and transformative learning.

For 168 years, the Mount has empowered young women to be founders, not followers—preparing them with confidence, courage, and purpose.

About the Recognition

Education Insider Magazine's Top Catholic College Preparatory School award aims to elevate conversations in Catholic education and spotlight schools making significant progress in faith-based learning. The selection process includes in-depth vetting, interviews, and review by educational leaders and experts, focusing on schools that excel in academic rigor, spiritual formation, character development, and community engagement.