Our Lady of Lourdes School prepares for anniversary

Friday, Sep. 19, 2014

SALT LAKE CITY — Our Lady of Lourdes students, faculty and staff, families and alumni have a reason to celebrate this year, with the commemoration of the school building’s 50th year.

Lourdes students have been in the 50-year-old building since 1964. The school itself has been around for 15 years longer; in 1949 Judge Memorial Grade School (located at the former Judge Mercy Hospital) became the financial responsibility of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish.

Over the years, the building and school have seen many changes. What hasn’t changed is the commitment to academic excellence and providing a Catholic education that teaches to the whole child in a strong community of faith.

“It’s going to be an exciting year, a time to reflect on our history and have a chance to leave a mark on its future,” said Principal Christine Bergquist.

Throughout this school year, the 50th anniversary will be incorporated into regularly scheduled events such as the annual Round Up dinner auction (Nov. 15), Open Houses and Catholic Schools Week.  Through the generous donation of a former family, a new mural will be painted along the outside front wall of the school. 

Other anniversary activities will include a time capsule, 1960’s themed dress-up day, 50th day of school celebration, and a “$50 for 50” campaign.  

As part of the 50th anniversary celebration, the school is inviting members of the community who might have pictures, information or artifacts from the early years to stop by and share their history and memories.

“We would love to hear from students, parents, teachers from the very earliest years of the school,” Bergquist said. “When alums and past parents visit Lourdes, they often say that what they loved about their time here is still evident, while also being pleased to see we have air conditioning in the classrooms, smaller class sizes, state-of-the-art technology and a new gym floor.”

For information about the 50th anniversary events and activities, contact Advancement Director Cheri Wright, cwright@lourdesschool.org.