Bright Lights of Catholic Education Tour

Padua Academy was honored to welcome Dr. Steven Cheeseman, President and CEO of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), on November 3 as part of his nationwide Bright Lights of Catholic Education Tour. This special initiative celebrates and highlights the inspiring work taking place in Catholic schools, classrooms, and communities across the country.

Dr. Cheeseman's visit provided an exciting opportunity to showcase the spirit, mission, and impact of Catholic education at Padua Academy. During his time on campus, he met with school leadership and toured the school alongside Student Ambassadors Maria James '27, Cassidy Cordery '28, and Amelia Romagnoli '28, accompanied by Director of Admissions Emily Heagy, stopping into different classrooms. The students had the opportunity to represent Padua, share their experiences, and offer a firsthand look at the academic opportunities, faith-filled environment, and strong sense of sisterhood that define the Padua experience.

The visit also included an interview in Padua's PATV studio for an upcoming episode of the Catholic Forum with The Dialog's Joe Owens. Dr. Cheeseman discussed the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, an initiative requiring states to opt in by December 31, and the potential benefits it could bring to children and families through expanded educational opportunities. 

Following his visit to Padua, Dr. Cheeseman served as the keynote speaker at the Diocese of Wilmington's Professional Development Day on Nov. 4th, sharing his insights with Catholic school educators from throughout the diocese.

Being included in Dr. Cheeseman's Bright Lights of Catholic Education Tour was a meaningful recognition of the work happening every day at Padua Academy. We are proud to share our story and celebrate the dedicated educators, students, and community members who make Catholic education such a powerful and transformative experience.

Thank you, Dr. Cheeseman, for visiting Padua Academy and taking the time to learn about and celebrate all that makes our community shine!