Made possible through a generous gift, the program expands access to STEM and leadership education—culminating in the Leadership Scholar Award, a four-year scholarship for one rising ninth grader.

PRINCETON, NJ – In partnership with an anonymous donor, the National Center for Girls’ Leadership (NCGLS) at Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart is proud to announce the launch of the NCGLS Summer STEM Leadership Program, developed in collaboration with Princeton University and The Watershed Institute, and tuition-free to students from lower-income families. In addition to the establishment of the summer program, this anonymous donor has made possible the Leadership Scholar Award, a full four-year scholarship to Stuart, available to one rising ninth grader who completes the summer program.

 “We are deeply grateful for this extraordinary gift that directly supports our mission to empower girls,” said Head of School Julia Wall. “This investment in Stuart’s future ensures that more girls and young women will have access to the exceptional education and leadership opportunities that define our school, and bolsters our ability to live Sacred Heart Goal II: The Commitment to Educating to a Deep Respect for Intellectual Values and Goal IV: The Building of Community as a Christian Value. 

"Data from the International Coalition of Girls Schools shows that graduates of girls’ schools are six times more likely to consider majoring in math, science, and technology compared to girls who attend coed schools,” added Director of Development Beth Marks ‘84, P '21. “As an alumna, past parent, and member of the Stuart leadership team, I have seen firsthand the profound impact of a Stuart education. The opportunities we provide empower our students to grow into confident, compassionate leaders who are ready to shape the future. By supporting STEM and improving access to this transformative experience through generous funding, we ensure that every student, regardless of background, has the chance to reach her full potential and become the leaders of tomorrow."

This gift will expand STEM programming and partnerships, allowing more students to engage in hands-on learning experiences that nurture curiosity and promote innovative thinking to prepare them for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

Eligible girls in grades 5-8 are nominated by an educational institution or representative from a non-profit partner organization. One qualified rising ninth grade student with outstanding leadership potential who completes the summer program will be considered for admission to Stuart Country Day School through the Leadership Scholar Award. This award allows Stuart to continue its work at removing barriers to receiving a Stuart education while recognizing and supporting a young woman with the potential to lead and inspire in STEM and beyond.

“Guided by the Sacred Heart Goals,” states Wall, “Stuart graduates lead purpose-driven lives and careers. This gift empowers more girls with visions of bettering the world to turn those visions into reality.”

For more information, or to nominate a student, visit stuartschool.org/summerSTEM. To discuss additional partnership opportunities with Stuart, contact Marissa Muoio, director of the National Center for Girls’ Leadership at Stuart, at mmuoio@stuartschool.org. 

About Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart

Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart is a leading preschool to Grade 12 private school in Princeton, NJ designed just for girls. Stuart's mission is to educate young women to a life of leadership and service within the framework of the Goals and Criteria of the Schools of Sacred Heart. With a highly personalized and rigorous curriculum, exceptional faculty who know girls well, and the space given to grow in their faith, Stuart girls graduate as compassionate and empowered global citizens who are driven to be forces of change in our world.

About the National Center for Girls’ Leadership at Stuart

The National Center for Girls’ Leadership at Stuart (NCGLS) is dedicated to advancing research and programs that empower young women to lead with confidence and purpose. Through partnerships, leadership development initiatives, and interdisciplinary research, the center ensures that girls are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and community support to excel in all areas of life.