The Hearts of the Community mass celebrates individuals or organizations that not only exemplify the core values of Sacred Heart Academy but use them to serve the greater good. Barbara Tracchio Romano ’61 is this year’s recipient and was recognized on February 3, 2017.
Barbara earned her B.S. in education and M.S. in special education from Southern Connecticut State University. She then went on to have a successful career as a special education teacher in which she strove towards “facilitating an environment in which students felt safe, valued, and loved and even the most challenged were able to experience progress.” Not only did she devote herself in classroom, but Barbara mentored new teachers, guiding them to adopt her philosophy: teachers are to act in service of students. To conclude her career, Barbara was named Teacher of the Year by the Area Cooperative Educational Services which honored her contribution to the educational community.
An alumna of Sacred Heart Academy, Barbara credits her education as the start of her service. Working with classmates to plan the 50th Reunion of her class, she began to reenter the Sacred Heart community. Barbara began volunteering at alumnae events and in 2013 joined the Alumnae Leadership Team. Through this role, she planned a variety of alumnae-sponsored events.
Barbara’s tireless devotion to her students as well as her selfless dedication to the Sacred Heart community was honored on February 3 at the Hearts of the Community mass. This mass was dutifully organized by Sr. Lany Jo and featured the concert choir as well as two members of the orchestra. During the mass, Barbara Romano gave a very eloquent speech in which she credited her Sacred Heart Academy education as the inspiration for her service. She also talked of the importance of education and creativity in one’s life.
Congratulations Barbara!