A Legacy of Faith

Throughout the years our school has been blessed by the continued guidance and sponsorship of the Dominican Sisters of Peace. Thursday, January 9, St. Agnes-St. Dominic educators, Board members, Sisters, alums and friends gathered in a spirit of gratitude to mark a profound moment in our school’s history as we formally acknowledged the transfer of sponsorship of the ministry of Catholic Dominican education at St. Agnes-St. Dominic to Dominican Veritas Ministries (DVM).

“This is a time to celebrate the cherished legacy of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, who have been the heart and soul of our school for so many years,” said President Tom Hood. “Through their example of faith, service, and dedication to the Dominican charism, they have nurtured generations of students in truth, compassion and justice."

“In partnership with Dominican Veritas Ministries, we are blessed to carry forward the legacy of the Sisters,” said President Hood. “DVM will continue to guide and support our school community, honoring the Sisters' vision while also opening the door to new possibilities. This transition symbolizes both continuity and renewal—an enduring commitment to forming young minds and hearts in the light of the Gospel,” Mr. Hood added.

During last week’s ceremony Sr. Joye Gros, O.P., a St. Agnes alumna, reflected on our school’s rich 174-year history, our Dominican tradition, and the role of the Sisters:  “The Sisters and teachers who taught me and many of you over the years, were filled with passion for the mission, and, in particular, the desire to pass it on to you and to me. I feel privileged to be a graduate of St. Agnes Academy and a Board member for 18 years.  I served with some of the most dedicated, mission-driven colleagues. I witnessed the dedication and commitment of faculty and staff, and I know, without a doubt, as we transition to Dominican Veritas Ministries, we are in good hands, very good hands.  I believe the spirit of all the Sisters and faculty who have gone before us, linger/hovers with us today and always. Together, we go forth to bless and preach, to bring the good news to all, to be good news for all. ”

In August of 2024, the Dominican Sisters of Peace officially announced this new sponsorship model which will ensure the Catholic and Dominican identity of our school and other sponsored schools for future generations of students. Recognizing changing demographics of their congregation, the Dominican Sisters of Peace, along with several other congregations, created DVM with approval from the Vatican and support from the Bishop. 

DVM serves as the canonical sponsor of SAA-SDS and 12 other elementary and secondary Catholic schools in the United States. By partnering with school leaders, DVM will guide and support each ministry in fulfilling its Dominican Catholic mission with faithfulness, care, and collaboration. Other schools sponsored by DVM include St. Agnes Academy in Houston, St. Mary’s Dominican in New Orleans, St. Pius X High School in Houston, and Our Lady of the Elms in Akron, Ohio. Click here for a complete list.

“As we welcome Dominican Veritas Ministries as the new stewards of our school’s mission, we do so with deep gratitude and a renewed sense of commitment,” said Beth Odom, SAA-SDS Director of Dominican Catholic Identity. “With this partnership, our mission remains the same: to educate, inspire, and support young people to become bearers of truth, justice, and peace in our world. Together, we carry forward this promise with hope, courage, and collaboration,” Mrs. Odom added.

Click to view a message of thanks from SAA-SDS to the Dominican Sisters of Peace.