Mount Carmel Academy kicked off its 100 Years in Lakeview centennial on January 28, 2026, with a day centered on faith, reflection, and time together as a school community.

The morning began with a live FOX 8 broadcast, sharing the milestone with the greater New Orleans community, before students and faculty gathered for a Centennial Mass in the Assembly Center.

 

The Mass was celebrated by Father Pat Williams and Father Michael Lamy, with Deacon Scott Reason assisting. Eighteen Carmelite Sisters were in attendance and participated in the liturgy, adding to the significance of the day for the Mount Carmel community.

All 1,250 students attended Mass wearing the official 100 Years in Lakeview shirts.

As part of the liturgy, students presented an Opening Procession of Symbols representing each decade of Mount Carmel’s 100 years in Lakeview. Led by Mrs. Simno, the procession shared the story of the school’s journey through meaningful objects, including a candle, a photo of Mother Clare Coady, a brick from the original foundation, boarding student ledgers, a Magnolia yearbook, Sister’s rosary, and items reflecting MCA’s growth, change, and perseverance through moments such as Hurricane Katrina and the COVID era.
 

In her welcome, Sister Camille Anne reflected on the meaning of the milestone and the enduring Carmelite mission. Mrs. Simno invited the community to reflect with gratitude on those who came before and those who will come after, reminding students that the Light of Christ continues to guide each generation.

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Decades in Motion: A Living History Performance

Immediately following Mass, students enjoyed Decades in Motion: A Living History Performance, a staged showcase that moved decade by decade from the 1920s to today.

The performance featured historic Mount Carmel uniforms and era-defining fashion, paired with music, choreography, and projected archival images. With full costumes, hair, and makeup styled to reflect each era, Ms. Hode guided the audience through a story of faith, traditions, and campus life over the past century. The showcase offered a creative way to learn more about school history while honoring the generations of women who came before them.

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A Schoolwide Celebration

The day continued with a joyful surprise for students: beignets and hot chocolate from Café du Monde, Roman Candy, lunch for the entire student body, and a DJ during lunch.
 

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While Mount Carmel Academy was founded in 1840, the centennial marks 100 years since the school moved to its Lakeview campus in 1926, when the Carmelite Sisters established the Motherhouse. Following its recent restoration, the Motherhouse has once again become an active part of campus life, making this anniversary especially meaningful.

The January 28 celebration marked the official beginning of Mount Carmel Academy’s Centennial Year. Throughout the year, students, faculty, alumnae, and the broader Mount Carmel community will participate in monthly activities and special events, with many more special moments still to come.