Nardin Academy

Excellence takes many forms, and this week we had the privilege of celebrating middle school students who embody the very best of the Nardin community…

🏆 Harriet Gilles Award
Congratulations to Henry Lawson (’31), this year’s recipient of the Harriet Gilles Award. Presented annually to a 7th grader, this honor recognizes a student who is personable, generous, a leader within the community, and someone who demonstrates a genuine love of learning—qualities that Harriet Gilles exemplified throughout her life of faith and service.

🏆 Margaret Benner Award
Congratulations to Isabella Maritato (’30) and Jackson Phillips (’30), recipients of the Margaret Benner Award. This award honors two 8th grade students who reflect leadership, responsibility, creativity, social awareness, academic achievement, and a commitment to making a positive impact on their community—continuing the legacy of Margaret Benner’s selfless dedication to education and Christian values.

🏆 Kelly Africano Middle School Physical Education & Athletics Award
Congratulations to William Egnatchik (’30) and Evelyn Mullin (’30), recipients of the Kelly Africano Award. This honor recognizes students who demonstrate growth, leadership, sportsmanship, enthusiasm, and a love for athletics that extends beyond competition. Named in memory of beloved Middle School P.E. teacher Kelly Africano, the award celebrates the character and spirit that make great teammates and leaders.

Congratulations to all of our award recipients for living out the values that define the Nardin experience. We are so proud of you!

Curiosity, creativity, and discovery were on full display during our Montessori Elementary Spring Performance and Night of Research & Discovery.

This year, students explored one of Montessori’s Great Lessons: The Timeline of Life. Through research, writing, and creative expression, each student completed a formal research project and created multiple pieces showcasing their learning and discoveries.

The evening began with a wonderful spring performance and concluded with a slideshow presentation and gallery walk, where families had the opportunity to view the students’ impressive work and celebrate their accomplishments.

We are so proud of the dedication our students demonstrated throughout this project.

Well done, Nardin Montessori Elementary

Congratulations to Emma Cramer, Tima Delen, Shining Rose Htoo, Adeline Lugo, Micca Smith, Brooklyn Villa Tiznado, and faculty advisor Dr. Jill Gradwell on successfully completing the Global Innovation Challenge, a University at Buffalo experiential learning program piloted for U.S. high schools at Nardin Academy!

Throughout the program, students partnered with Mr. Munaaba Edward of Jinja, Uganda, who operates a collective and immersive educational farm. Together, they developed innovative strategies to expand outreach efforts and support coffee export initiatives, applying global problem-solving skills to real-world challenges.

In addition, these students participated in Western New York’s 21st Century Fund voting process, helping award a $100,000 grant to Neighborhood Legal Services.

The group proudly presented their work to the community on June 2, showcasing the power of experiential learning, global collaboration, and student leadership. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, insight, and impact!

Lower School enjoyed their annual Field Day fun!

Students enjoed outdoor yard games, a dance party with Miss Hanna and team racing games with pool noodles and fast feet on the turf with Mr L! We finished up the fun activities with a water balloon toss! We are already looking forward to next year’s field day 🐊

A treasured Nardin tradition, our annual Marian Tribute brings together the Lower School community in faith, prayer, and celebration.

Hosted by our third-grade students and coordinated by teachers Stephanie Sacilowski and Mia Gallivan, this special Mass honors the Blessed Mother through scripture, song, prayer, and the crowning of Mary in our historic chapel. Families, friends, and the entire Lower School community join in this beautiful celebration of Nardin’s heritage and devotion.

We were also honored to recognize those students who recently received their First Holy Communion in their home parishes—a meaningful milestone in their faith journey.

May Mary’s example of grace, love, and service continue to inspire our Nardin community.