Holy Names Academy

Beneath the iconic dome of Holy Names Academy, a century of stories whispers. Holy Names Academy stands as a testament to the enduring power of education and faith. Founded in 1880 by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, it’s the oldest continually operating school in Washington state. Imagine Seattle before it was even a state. Picture a bustling frontier town, a mere glimmer of the metropolis it would become. In this nascent city, the Sisters arrived with a vision. They sought to empower young women through education, a radical idea at the time. Holy Names Academy began humbly in two rented houses downtown. The first class consisted of 21 day students, one boarding student, and one music student. The Sisters’ dedication quickly outgrew these modest beginnings. They moved to a larger building in the International District. Then in 1908, they settled on Capitol Hill, then considered the outskirts of town. Here, the magnificent Baroque Revival structure we see today arose. This building, with its distinctive dome, has witnessed generations of young women walk its halls. Holy Names Academy has adapted and evolved over the years. The normal school, grade school, and boarding school have closed. Yet, the core mission remains. The Academy continues to offer a rigorous college-preparatory education. It also fosters a strong sense of community and service. The school has been recognized four times as a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. It consistently ranks among America’s most challenging high schools. Holy Names Academy is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to the transformative power of education. It’s a place where young women discover their potential and find their voices. It’s a beacon of knowledge and faith, shining brightly beneath its grand dome. As you stand before Holy Names Academy, consider the countless lives shaped within these walls. Remember the Sisters who embarked on this educational mission over a century ago. Their legacy lives on in the students who continue to learn and grow at Holy Names Academy.