Clubs & Activities

Academic Teams and Publications

Accents

The Immaculate Heart Academy school newspaper, Accents, is a student-run monthly publication. With a regular staff of more than 70 writers, editors, photographers, and layout designers, Accents is growing into one of IHA’s larger clubs. Accents is packed with interesting and relevant articles in the areas of news, sports, arts & entertainment, health, and technology. Also included in the paper is an opinion section in which students express their views on a broad array of topics. Accents is open to all students via an application process. Submissions from students, faculty, staff, and parents are also welcome. For more information or to send submissions, contact moderator, Ms. Moser at mmoser@ihanj.com.

Halcyon

Working on the IHA yearbook, Halcyon, is an extracurricular activity that involves a lot of dedication. Students prepare the annual yearbook for publication in the spring. Many aspects of design and layout are acquired in the process. Editors work on design and layout, while staff members photograph the community and write captions. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Woolley, at jwoolley@ihanj.com.

Math League

Math League is open to all students who want to gain insight on how to be problem solvers by working with their peers. It is dedicated to encouraging students to use their math ability and mathematical concepts they have acquired to compete on state and national levels. Members compete in the New Jersey Math League competitions, which are administered once a month, as well as the American Mathematical Competition, which is administered in February. In addition to the competition dates, meetings will be held once a month to prepare. Those students who are enrolled in the STEM program are strongly encouraged to join. Membership in Math League is a pre-requisite to be invited to membership in the Mathematics National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Taveras, at ctaveras@ihanj.com.

Mock Trial Club

The purpose of the Mock Trial Club is to present the students with the opportunity to study and participate in the legal system by the actual preparation and presentation of a mock trial. It enhances the students’ critical thinking and analytical skills in the areas of writing, reading, public speaking, and listening. It further gives students the opportunity to work on leadership skills as they work together as a team. Competition consists of cases presented at the Bergen County Court House in Hackensack.

Model United Nations (UN) Club

The Model United Nations (UN) Club allows students the opportunity to get involved with issues that affect the world in which they live. Model UN is a simulation of the UN General Assembly and other multilateral bodies. As mock delegates from UN member states, IHA students gain insight into the dynamics of international relations and have the opportunity to debate issues that confront world leaders. This is accomplished by simulating actual debates of the United Nations itself. Students who have an interest in international affairs research foreign policies in preparation for participation in one of two conferences at Harvard and Georgetown University. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. DeMartini, at hdemartini@ihanj.com.

National Speech and Debate Association

National Speech and Debate Association is a student-run political action club consisting of debate and/or public speaking on selected topics such as current events. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Bonanno, at cbonanno@ihanj.com.

ORB Literary Magazine

ORB is Immaculate Heart Academy’s literary magazine. It is a collection of student writing and art work that is published annually. Students who are interested in writing, art, photography, and layout are encouraged to join through an applications process that takes place each spring. Staff members work on producing and selecting entries for publication. All members of the student body are invited to submit their writing for publication consideration during the school year. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Sandt, at dsandt@ihanj.com.

Philosophy Club

The mission of the Philosophy Club at IHA is to carry out thought-provoking and engaging dialogues about questions that seem to have no answer. We respectfully debate about philosophical concepts and complex aspects of society to promote intellectual growth. Students who join this club will have the opportunity to enhance their love of wisdom. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. McDonald, at gmcdonald@ihanj.com.

Robotics Club

The Robotics Club is centered around building teamwork skills along with learning about the science behind brainstorming, trial and error, and competition. The focus of the club is to design a robot that will solve the challenge given each school year. The challenge is usually based on real world problems. No prior knowledge is needed. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Ross, at kross@ihanj.com.

Career Focused

Applied Engineering Club

The Applied Engineering Club provides students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with projects that utilize the engineering design process from defining the “big issue” through the implementation of a project. Students choose a project from many facets of engineering and meet to collaborate with classmates who might be interested in an engineering career. The club is open to all students. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Caudilla, at acaudilla@ihanj.com.

Campus Shop Club

IHA students will assist in the development and design of new IHA apparel for the Campus Shop. Students will gain skills within the world of merchandising, such as creation and design, sales and inventory, scheduling product releases, and marketing and advertising. Open to all students, no prior experience needed. For more information contact moderators, Mrs. Frasure ’07, at sfrasure@ihanj.com, and Mrs. Caufield, at jcaufield@ihanj.com.

Être means, “to be.” Who do you want “to be?” This club is a forum where girls are inspired by successful women. Club Être offers mentorship opportunities from influential women in various industries. The goal is to empower girls by encouraging bravery, philanthropy, financial literacy, and young entrepreneurship. Members of this club participate in a variety of discussions, events, workshops, and trips to strengthen and broaden their interest on who exactly they want “to be.” For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Capizzi ’89, at ccapizzi@ihanj.com.

DECA

DECA is a co-curricular activity exclusive for students enrolled in a business class. Qualified members will be able to participate in competitive events in which they can utilize their problem solving and presentation skills in a business setting. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Capizzi ’89, at ccapizzi@ihanj.com.

Future Doctors of America Club

Future Doctors of America Club is for young women who are interested in pursuing a career in the health professions. The club hopes to motivate and encourage students who wish to pursue these professions and to provide exposure to different medical fields. Club activities include viewing medical shows, listening to guest speakers, going over case studies, and suture workshops. For more information, contact moderator, Dr. Kenney, at skenney@ihanj.com.

Get Reel! Club

In the Get Reel! Club, students experience hands-on work through the creation of a movie project to be viewed by all members at the end of the year. The club allows students to take a closer look at women in film, appropriate location, camera angles, lighting, and sound to film a movie. For more information, contact moderators, Ms. Shaheen, at jshaheen@ihanj.com, and Mr. Lee, at dlee@ihanj.com.

HeartTV

Students produce a morning news show, heartTV, for the entire school during homeroom. Positions available include anchors, prayer readers, camera crew, control room staff, audio technicians, and auto-script and video editors. To submit news and announcements to heartTV, email hearttv@ihanj.com. For more information, contact moderators, Ms. Shaheen, at jshaheen@ihanj.com, and Mr. Lee, at dlee@ihanj.com.

Sports Broadcast Journalism Club

The Sports Journalism Club is open to all students who have a passion for covering sports. From our home IHA teams to professional athletes — if it is sports, we are on it. Practice play-by-play commentary, athlete interviews, and broadcasting live games. It is all the fun of sports broadcasting right from your own school. If you want to feel what it is like to be a sports journalist this is the club for you! For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Lee, at dlee@ihanj.com.

Tech Corps

Tech Corps is a support/service club that allows students to explore the field of technical theatre. The club not only provides the needed technical support for IHA musicals, but also for liturgies, concerts, awards ceremonies, senior talent show, and other programs that occur throughout the year. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Lee, at dlee@ihanj.com.

Games and Athletics

Chess and Board Game Club

The Chess and Board Game Club meets monthly for students to interact with new people and relieve stress. The club meets to play chess and board games and usually ends with a fun Kahoot. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Tucker, at ctucker@ihanj.com.

Eagles Nest

Eagles Nest is a group of spirited, energetic, and dedicated women who actively cheer on their classmates in all sports, whether on the field, court, track, ice, lanes, or even slopes. The club is designed to encourage and support IHA and its amazing athletes by providing the school spirit that they deserve. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Ferro, at sferro@ihanj.com.

Flag Football Club

The Flag Football Club is open to all students who enjoy the fast-paced, team-oriented game of flag football. Members will learn the rules, develop teamwork skills, and practice their techniques in a fun and supportive environment. The club holds practices and games when free turf time and scheduling allow. Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the game, all are welcome to join, improve their athletic abilities, and enjoy the camaraderie of friendly competition. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Maltz, at lmaltz@ihanj.com.

Pickleball Club

The Pickleball Club provides a fun, inclusive environment for students to learn and play pickleball. It encourages teamwork, light physical activity, and friendly competition, making it suitable for all students and all skill levels. Members meet regularly to practice, play, and enjoy the sport together! For more information, contact moderators, Ms. Rhein ’09, at lrhein@ihanj.com, and Mr. Ferro, at sferro@ihanj.com.

Ping Pong Club

The Ping Pong Club is a club open to students who enjoy playing ping pong. The club meets after school on days that the gym is available.

Ski and Snowboard Club

Students who love to ski or snowboard have an opportunity to go on four trips in January and February. Skiing/snowboarding is done at a local mountain and after school hours. All are welcome. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. McGinnis, at pmcginnis@ihanj.com.

Spikeball Club

The Spikeball Club is for girls who love playing sports or would like to pick up a new hobby. Spikeball is a team sport played by four people (two teams of two). This game is easy to learn, simple to master, and a whole lot of fun. If you would like to have some extra excitement added to your day, join the Spikeball Club! For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Tucker, at ctucker@ihanj.com.

Tennis Club

For students who enjoy playing tennis or want an opportunity to learn, the Tennis Club offers time after school on the IHA tennis courts to play with friends. The club consists of fun interactive games as well as matches against other students. The times for matches will be after school and determined by availability of courts. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. McGinnis, at pmcginnis@ihanj.com.

Video Game Club

The Video Game Club is a place for students to play fun games with their friends after school. It is a therapeutic way to relieve stress and bond with their fellow sisters. What better way is there to wind down from the day than driving around in a Mario Kart? For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Lee, at dlee@ihanj.com.

Hobbies

Bake-In Club

In the Bake-In Club, each student bakes a different type of dessert at home and brings them in to share with the club at a monthly meeting. Students can share recipes and learn other bakers’ secrets.

Bead and Bracelet Club

IHA’s Bead and Bracelet Club is open to all students who want to create fun jewelry for themselves, for others, and to donate to women’s shelters. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Sullivan, at asullivan@ihanj.com.

Birthday Appreciation Club

The Birthday Appreciation Club is excited to celebrate the birthdays of IHA students, faculty, and staff, making cards and other celebratory gifts so everyone can feel appreciated on their special day. Join this club if you would love to make your fellow sisters and the IHA community smile on their birthday.

The Book Swap Club is for students looking to expand their reading horizons and share their love of favorite books with their friends! Members will bring in a favored book, partner with another member, and swap books. Each member will read her friend’s selection and then discuss it with her at the next meeting, when partners will be rematched for a new book choice.

Knitting and Crocheting Club

IHA’s Knitting and Crocheting Club is a flexible group that works around the students’ other commitments. The club teaches the basic skills of knitting to anyone who wants to learn. In the intense day-to-day atmosphere that is IHA, there is perhaps no greater skill needed than the ability to relax, to unwind. This club provides the space and the time to both learn and practice this most necessary skill. All students are welcome regardless of ability. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Sheehan, at ksheehan@ihanj.com.

Mystery Club

In the Mystery Club, students take part in games such as unsolved case files and escape rooms with biweekly meetings. The Club encourages students to live out popular television shows like Criminal Minds and to work as a detective with fun after-school activities. It is perfect for those interested in FBI and CSI careers, or those who just love solving a good mystery. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Dwyer, at tdwyer@ihanj.com.

Puzzle Club

Puzzle Club provides students with a fun way to entertain and challenge their brains at the same time. It also encourages students to utilize teamwork to complete puzzles. The club offers a community puzzle in the IC open for all students and staff. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Woolley, at jwoolley@ihanj.com.

Read Between the Lines Club

Read Between the Lines is a book club that meets monthly to dive into 2-3 captivating reads each year. Gatherings are a space for sharing thoughts, opinions, and insights on each book, making for lively and engaging discussions. Once we wrap up a book, we celebrate by watching its movie adaptation, comparing how the story unfolds on screen. Our goal is to foster a welcoming, fun environment where members can feel comfortable exploring their ideas while enjoying both literary and cinematic storytelling. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Giglio, at jgiglio@ihanj.com.

We Heart Our Teachers Club

The purpose of the We Heart Our Teachers Club is to honor our IHA faculty and staff, and express our gratitude for all that they do for our students. For more information, contact moderators, Ms. Frasure ’07, at sfrasure@ihanj.com, and Mrs. Tweed ’93, at ktweed@ihanj.com.

Language and Culture

Black Culture Club

The Black Culture Club is led by students who strive to enhance and represent the IHA school community in a positive manner. The students contribute to the IHA community by celebrating both diversity and unity of all students, which creates opportunities for growth, inclusion, and leadership representation. For more information, contact moderator, Dr. Kenney, at skenney@ihanj.com.

Embrace

Embrace is a supportive and inclusive community that is dedicated to creating a safe, no judgment space where everyone can express themselves freely and authentically. We focus on wellness and mutual support, fostering an environment where you can find understanding friends and a sense of belonging. We believe in the power of kindness, empathy, and acceptance and we strive to build a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and appreciated. Join us to share your experiences, participate in uplifting activities, and be a part of a group that celebrates diversity and promotes genuine connections. Together, we can create a positive atmosphere that uplifts and supports each other in our journeys. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Maka ’02, at tmaka@ihanj.com.

Filipino Club

Members regardless of background have the opportunity to learn about the rich Filipino culture and connect with fellow Filipinos in the community. Through music, art, and food members of the Filipino club enjoy themselves while learning about culture. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Caudilla, at acaudilla@ihanj.com.

French Club

The French Club provides a vehicle for focusing activities on the French language and culture. The club aims to stimulate interest in the study of French and to create enthusiasm for and an understanding of francophone culture and civilization. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Ingoglia, at eingoglia@ihanj.com.

German Club

The German Club is a club for any student who wants to celebrate aspects of German culture and heritage. Students do not need to be German to participate, and all are welcome to attend. Club members learn about German food, history, holidays, traditions, language, music, and more through monthly meetings.

Global Society Club

The Global Society Club aims to spread cultural and historical knowledge about different countries to club members and students throughout IHA. Each month, the club hosts mini-lessons (with games, food, and music) to learn more about a chosen country and the people who live there, diversifying students’ perspectives of the world. The Global Society Club also works with TEEEM, a local non-profit organization, that teaches students about global issues and humanitarianism through empathy and entrepreneurship. With this organization, the club sponsors TEEEM’s Ugandan site, Nyaka Primary School, and volunteers by reading stories and organizing donation drives. Join this club if you want to expand your global understanding and empathy.

Hispanic Club

The IHA Hispanic Club is an organization of students of all ethnicities and backgrounds who come together to embrace Hispanic culture. The club is dedicated to the exploration of Hispanic cultures, traditions, and languages, and the celebration of Hispanic holidays.

Irish Club

The Irish Club honors and celebrates Irish history, culture, and traditions.

Italian Club

The purpose of the Italian Club is to create a sense of community for students who are passionate about Italy as well as to engage our members with unique and fun opportunities to experience Italian culture, traditions, language, and the history of Italy. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Daly-Valls, at mdalyvalls@ihanj.com.

Polish Club

The Polish Club is a vibrant and inclusive community dedicated to celebrating and exploring the rich Polish culture. It serves as a gathering place for students interested in immersing themselves in the language, cuisine, traditions, and heritage of Poland.

World Language Club

The objective of the World Language Club is to foster an interest in world languages and their respective cultural traditions. Students do not need to be presently enrolled in a World Language class to participate. All are welcome! For more information, contact moderators, Mrs. Ingoglia, at eingoglia@ihanj.com, and Mrs. Daly-Valls, at mdalyvalls@ihanj.com.

Leadership

Service and Volunteerism

Animal Haven Club

For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Whelan ’13, at jwhelan@ihanj.com.

CARE (Christian Actions Reaching Everyone)

CARE (Christian Actions Reaching Everyone) is a network of service groups that strives to target and address a wide variety of needs in the surrounding communities. By coordinating diverse service opportunities within a range of groups under one organization, CARE functions as the “umbrella” under which Immaculate Heart Academy service efforts come alive. CARE seeks to both provide accessible service opportunities for students and consequently inspire them to live their faith through actions of justice, peace, and humility. Meetings are held once a month, where students have the opportunity to sign up for various service projects. CARE also sponsors several large events such as dances for people with special needs, a Thanksgiving dinner for the elderly, and fundraisers to help support various service efforts. Once a student joins CARE they can join several groups of interest. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Ash ’19, at eash@ihanj.com.

Christian Service Board

The parent/student Christian Service Board helps assemble the network of service opportunities. The board also helps students connect with an organization for placement of their service project. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Ash ’19, at eash@ihanj.com.

Eucharistic Ministry

Students administer the Eucharist to the school community at liturgies throughout the school year. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Ash ’19, at eash@ihanj.com.

Go Green Club

The Go Green Club is dedicated to recycling and educating others on how to save the environment. Students create an improved sense of awareness of the impact humans have on the world around them. They monitor the life conditions of endangered species and wildlife, looking for ways to improve the conditions toward the goal of preservation. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Tereshko, at ltereshko@ihanj.com.

Heart Club

The Heart Club is a student-led program that empowers students to raise awareness about heart health, working with guidance from the American Heart Association (AHA). Through the club’s activities and events, the students work together to promote a connection between the mind, body, and heart and encourage peers to adopt healthier lifestyles and understand the importance of cardiovascular wellness. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. St-Onge ’06, at nstonge@ihanj.com.

Made With Love Club

Students will have an opportunity to make and send cards to members of our community for various occasions. All are welcome and no artistic talent is needed. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Donoghue ’76, at edonoghue@ihanj.com.

Military Awareness Club

The Military Awareness Club aims to educate, support, and honor the sacrifices of military personnel, veterans, and their families within our school community. We strive to foster awareness, appreciation, and understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who serve. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Bonanno, at cbonanno@ihanj.com.

Traffic Safety Squad (TSS)

Students promote safe teen driving through various school-wide events. The club participates in the Hackensack Medical Center Teen Driving Safety Challenge and the Brain Injury Alliance of N.J. Champion Schools Program. For more information, email moderator, Mr. Downey, at jdowney@ihanj.com.

The Arts

ACT (Arts, Culture, and Theater) Club

The Arts, Culture, and Theater Club is open to all students who are interested in arts and culture. The club meets once per quarter to study a particular play or arts exhibit as a group. Activities include once-per-quarter field trips to New York City to view plays, musicals, or museum exhibits connected to the club discussion. For more information, contact moderators, Miss Carroll ’04, at kcarrol@ihanj.com, Mrs. Layng, at mlayng@ihanj.com, and Mr. McGinnis, at pmcginnis@ihanj.com.

Art Club

Art Club is open to all freshman and sophomore students who love art and want to share their love of art with others! In addition to working on several different art projects in the art room, students also have the opportunity to perform Christian Service by visiting a local senior residence several times during the school year to work on seasonal craft/art projects with the residents. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Giglio, at jgiglio@ihanj.com.

Orchestra is the main student instrumental ensemble and is open to all students who have achieved proficiency in any band or orchestral instrument. The Orchestra performs concerts, festivals, and graduation, as well as other venues throughout the year. Small ensembles such as Woodwind Quintet, String Quartet, and “Dueling Pianos” are community service ensembles in which Orchestra members can also participate. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Martorano, at jmartorano@ihanj.com.

Performing Arts

Drama
On-stage productions of a dramatic play or comedy performed for three nights one weekend in the fall. Students from neighboring boys’ schools are invited to participate. The production is open to the general public.

Musical
Students perform on stage in a spring musical. Students from neighboring boys’ schools are invited to participate. The production is open to the general public.

For more information, visit performingartsattheheart.com.

Photography Club

The IHA Photography Club is open to students who have a true love of photography and would like to further develop their photography skills and techniques through various specialized activities. Activities vary but include photographing various IHA events for the IHA website, yearbook, and newsletter; photo entry into various local and national photography competitions; and basic Photoshop instruction. Photo tours and guest speakers are also explored. Photo Club enrollment is limited to 40 students. A working digital camera is required for all members. All members are expected to attend monthly meetings and commit to actively participate in all aspects of the club including photographing school events. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Hamlett, at mhamlett@ihanj.com.

Praise Choir

Students select and prepare music for school liturgies and prayer services. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. Valle, at gvalle@ihanj.com.

Voices

Voices, IHA’s chorus, performs at the Christmas concert, the Spring Arts Festival, and other venues throughout the year. It is a great opportunity to make music with other singers in the school!

Wellness

De-Stress Slime Club

The De-Stress Slime Club meets monthly in the cafeteria for a fun slime-making experience, exploring the science behind slime and how its chemical components contribute to stress relief. Meetings will feature a variety of options including fluffy slime, glitter slime, and dough slime. The club will also celebrate holidays with themed slime contests, allowing students to vote for the best creations. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Maka ’02, at tmaka@ihanj.com.

Fitness at The Heart Club

The Fitness at The Heart Club is a space for girls to come together and share their love for all things fitness and wellness. The club meets twice a month in the fitness center right after school to do a group workout and occasional meditation. These workouts will include but are not limited to weightlifting, yoga, cardio, and stretching. Students will establish a healthy relationship with fitness as well as a healthy lifestyle that will be beneficial for the rest of their lives. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Davidson ’19, at cdavidson@ihanj.com.

Helium Project

The goal of the Helium Project is to encourage wellness by promoting lightweight topics each month (for example: laughter, sleep, time management, etc.) Members will help to advocate and inspire others with these topics by making announcements on heartTV and placing posters and hosting activities (gratitude jars or boxes of chocolate) around the school throughout the year. For more information, contact moderator, Mrs. Maka ’02, at tmaka@ihanj.com.

Kindness Above Malice (KAM) Club

The objective of the Kindness Above Malice (KAM) Club is to raise awareness of the drastic effects bullying can have on a person and help to promote raising self-esteem in the school community. KAM meets monthly. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Whelan ’13, at jwhelan@ihanj.com.

Morgan’s Message

Morgan’s Message is an organization that strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health within the student-athlete community and equalize the treatment of physical and mental health in athletics. For more information, contact moderator, Mr. McDonald, at gmcdonald@ihanj.com.

The goal of the Wellness Ambassadors Club is to raise awareness of mental health at Immaculate Heart Academy, which is a Stigma-Free community. Members will participate in the dog therapy program each month at the school and Wellness Wednesday events throughout the year sponsored by the Guidance Department. For more information, contact moderator, Ms. Donoghue ’76, at edonoghue@ihanj.com.