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Over February break, our SHA young women embarked on a life-changing service trip to the breathtaking Galápagos Islands, embracing faith, service, culture, and adventure every step of the way. Their journey began in Ecuador, where they spent a day exploring and learning about the country’s rich history and culture. One unforgettable highlight was visiting the “Center of the World” at the Equator, standing at 0° latitude as confirmed by GPS coordinates. It was a powerful moment, quite literally standing in the middle of the world, marking the beginning of a meaningful global experience. From there, the group flew to the remarkable Galápagos Islands, known worldwide for their extraordinary biodiversity and natural beauty. Faith remained at the heart of the trip. The young women celebrated a beautiful Mass at a local Catholic church, joining the community in prayer and reflecting on the purpose of their journey, to serve with open hearts. Service took many forms throughout the week. The students participated in a reforestation project, contributing hands-on work to help preserve the islands’ delicate ecosystem. Their efforts supported local sustainability initiatives and reinforced the importance of environmental stewardship, an especially meaningful lesson in a place so globally significant for conservation. The group also had the opportunity to visit a local school, Unidad Educativa Stella Maris, where they engaged in a meaningful service project. They painted classrooms and common areas, worked in the school garden, and built benches out of wooden pallets to create welcoming spaces for students. This hands-on experience allowed them to connect directly with the local community while putting their faith into action through service. The group also visited the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station, where they learned about ongoing conservation efforts and the unique species that inhabit the islands. Seeing the impact of scientific research and environmental protection up close deepened their understanding of the responsibility we all share in caring for our common home. Cultural immersion was another special part of the experience. The young women enjoyed a cooking class with a local family, learning traditional recipes and sharing stories across languages and cultures. They also visited a local ranch where dozens of land tortoises roamed freely, an unforgettable encounter with one of the Galápagos’ most iconic animals. Accompanying the group was Mr. Powers, Ms. Lavery, and Ms. Cali, whose guidance helped enrich the educational aspects of the trip. Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Powers shared, “This trip gave our students the opportunity to see the world through a wider lens. They did not just learn about geography and conservation in a classroom. They lived it, served others, and grew in ways that will stay with them for years to come.” From standing on the Equator to serving through reforestation and school outreach, from celebrating Mass to sharing meals with local families, this February break was far more than a trip. It was a journey of growth. Our SHA young women returned home with broadened perspectives, strengthened faith, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Dr. Alexander Chan and Prof. Gayle O'Keefe of Molloy University visit Sacred Heart Academy to demystify AI and Data Analytics for future innovators.