Submitted by Margaret Merwin
Saturday, June 29, was a celebration to beat all others at St. Mary’s Academy in Hoosick Falls. For 127 years, SMA has been a cherished part of the Hoosick Falls Community and beyond. This event certainly proved that with over 400 people in attendance. While many grateful Alumni, faculty and staff returned to SMA from all over the country, members of the community at large also came to say goodbye and share a story or memory of a treasured institution.
Emceed by Jim Shaw, Class of 1961, the evening was full of fun. Best Sound DJs Joe and Matt Shaw provided music throughout the night. Hoosac School, Chef Fabian and his staff provided a very elegant and delicious stationed dinner buffet. Mike and Trish Bloomer from The Sand Bar and their staff provided a most enjoyable bar experience.
In keeping with a long-standing tradition, new Honorary Alumni were recognized. This award goes to those who did not graduate from SMA but have, through their time, talent, and treasure, shown their loyalty and dedication to St. Mary’s Academy. This year’s recipients were: Kevin McGuire, Nick and Patrice Pello, Lisa Adrion, Jerry and Carlina D’Acchille, Tim and Mary Beth Smith, Carol Schwartz, Mary Ann Gorman Pierce, Veronica Brandi, and Helen Kennedy. Last but not least we also honored the memory of SMA student, John Hyde, who died much too young but whose family never stopped supporting and caring for SMA. We presented his dad, Art and (posthumously) his mom, Johanna with the Honorary Alumni Award and also presented the family with the John Hyde Christian Athlete Trophy. The Hyde family began this award in 1980 and it was awarded to many deserving student-athletes over the years.
To close out the program, the 50-year Class of 1969 led the attendees in the school’s Alma Mater one last time. A very fitting end to an era.
As always, SMA thanks everyone for their support over the years. While it is sad to say goodbye, we know St. Mary’s Academy has touched the lives of so many and will live on in our memories and in our hearts forever.