WHEREAS, Saint Joseph Catholic School in Petersburg, the oldest continuously operating school in the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, celebrated its 145th anniversary on January 17, 2021; and

WHEREAS, founded by the Daughters of Charity in 1876 as part of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Petersburg, Saint Joseph Catholic School has long contributed to the intellectual and spiritual development of young people in the community; and

WHEREAS, Saint Joseph Catholic School teaches junior kindergarten through 8th grade, serving a diverse student body of 130 pupils from throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, the mission of Saint Joseph Catholic School is to form students who are able scholars, active citizens, and devoted disciples through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes individual learning, community service, and Christian values; and

WHEREAS, in recent years, new leadership and support from alumni, local businesses, and other donors have enabled Saint Joseph Catholic School to increase enrollment and renovate the school's historic campus; and

WHEREAS, as part of its 145th anniversary celebration, Saint Joseph Catholic School is initiating its "Promise for the Future" capital campaign, ensuring that the school and its community will continue to thrive for generations to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Saint Joseph Catholic School, an esteemed institution within the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, on the occasion of its 145th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Sarah Owens, principal of Saint Joseph Catholic School, as an expression of the General Assembly's heartfelt admiration for the school's contributions to the rich history and culture of the Commonwealth.