Sacred Heart Schools has launched the public phase of a $30 million capital campaign, titled “Sacred Heart Forever,” with plans to expand and modernize its campus facilities. The initiative covers Sacred Heart Academy, Sacred Heart Model School, Sacred Heart Preschool, and Sacred Heart School for the Arts.

Announced on September 9 at a press conference on the Lexington Road campus, school leaders stated that donations have already exceeded $25 million. The campaign aims to enhance student life and educational opportunities across its institutions.

Funds will support an expansion of Sacred Heart Academy, which is set to include new dining areas, an outdoor patio, a student-run coffee shop and cafe, as well as a welcome entrance and conference center. According to the campaign’s press release: “state-of-the-art dining space, outdoor patio, student-run coffee shop and cafe, and welcome entrance and conference center, all designed to inspire teamwork and connection.” Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer or fall of 2026.

A “new Student Life Hub with modern collaboration spaces and offices” is also planned as part of the academy’s development. Additionally, the campaign will fully finance the Ursuline Innovation STEM Center—a 6,000-square-foot facility launching this fall for students from both Sacred Heart Academy and Sacred Heart Model School. The center will feature several educational resources including “the Ursuline Environmental Education Program, Ann Cowley Wells ‘60, ‘64 BSEE Design Lab, St. Kateri Tekakwitha Research Greenhouse, Teri Tafel ’72 and Keith Cullinan Environmental Classroom, and a Heartwood outdoor classroom.”

The strategic plan extends to preserving the Ursuline Sisters’ Chapel of the Immaculate Conception as well as supporting financial aid through the school’s annual fund.

Dr. Karen McNay, president of Sacred Heart Schools said: “We are humbled and grateful for the passion and generosity of our Sacred Heart community, which has allowed us to dream big. Our $30 million campaign goal will support the bold endeavors ahead that ensure Sacred Heart thrives now and forever.”

Nearly 2,000 students are currently enrolled at Sacred Heart Schools. Additional information about contributing can be found at www.shslou.org/sacredheartforever.