Glossary of Mount Traditions & Events
The Mount is more than a school; it’s a sisterhood built on community. Bringing generations of sisters together, Mount's long history has upheld these traditions though modernizing them through the year.
Alumnae Induction: This ceremony officially inducts the senior class into the Mount Saint Joseph Academy Alumnae Association. Alumnae mothers and relatives of seniors are invited to attend and participate in the pinning ceremony. After the formal ceremony, a casual gathering is held to celebrate seniors.
Commencement Exercises: Commencement is steeped in traditions that have been upheld for decades. Graduates wear white Grecian gowns and the graduation medal they receive during Senior Recognition Night. Graduates also carry a bouquet of yellow roses that represent the gold of the Mount’s colors.
Fashion Show: A night of style and fun! Mount seniors are chosen by lottery to model fashions (from a different provider each year) for guests. Selected faculty, staff, and alumnae model as well. This event is hosted by the Parents Association.
Founders’ Day: October 15th is a celebration honoring the founding of the Sisters of Saint Joseph (SSJs) in LePuy, France. The day celebrates the founding of the congregation’s and the Academy. The entire Mount community gathers in the morning for an assembly, followed by a walk to the Chapel at the Motherhouse, located at Chestnut Hill College. The afternoon is a community celebration with various activities.
Freshman Fest: A fun, casual social gathering for freshmen at the start of the school year, hosted by the Parents Association.
Golden Girls Luncheon: Alumnae who graduated 50 years ago or more are invited to enjoy lunch together.
Golf Classic: Held each fall, this day of golf directly benefits current and future students, with funds supporting financial aid and scholarships.
Honors Convocation: A ceremony hosted by the Parents Association in which students are recognized for their distinguished academic achievements.
Junior Ring Mass: A Mass in which juniors receive their class rings, hosted by the Parents Association.
Junior Training Retreat (JTR): Juniors who will be retreat leaders the following school year are invited to attend this retreat.
Open House: One day each fall when the Academy opens its doors to prospective students and families to welcome them to the Mount.
Parent Social: A casual social event parents hosted by the Parents Association.
Retreats: Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors join together as a group in prayer and service. Each grade has its own retreat.
Reunion (formerly known as Alumnae Day): Two class years are celebrated every year, as well as the 50th anniversary reunion class, during an evening of socialization on campus.
Senior Recognition Night: A night to celebrate the accomplishments of seniors, hosted by the Parents Association. During this awards ceremony, seniors receive the graduation medal that they will wear during the Commencement Exercises.
Senior Tree Trimming: Seniors gather in December to decorate the Mount’s Christmas tree with ornaments bearing each student’s name. Before Christmas break, each student takes home her ornament as a keepsake.
Spirit Week: A week that celebrates the history and future of the Mount. Efforts are focused on fundraising, with competitions by grade level.
UNITAS Retreat: Seniors participate in UNITAS retreat, an off-site, three-day spiritual retreat.