Thank-You For Your Support on 34 Days of Giving
Our students are asked to give their best every day. In turn, we ask that each of you give your best during the 34 Days of Giving Campaign!
St. John's Northwestern Academies is thrilled to announce a $250,000 Challenge Match in conjunction with the 34 Days of Giving initiative. The SJNA Board of Trustees continues to lead by example and graciously pledged to match all contributions made in support of this fiscal year up to $250,000. The 34 Days of Giving Challenge Match Campaign will commence on Tuesday, November 28 and continue through Sunday, December 31, doubling your support and impact!
Daily Updates
The Tuesday after Thanksgiving is the international day of giving, often referred to as Giving Tuesday. At St. John's Northwestern Academies. We asked, "Why have only one day of giving when you can celebrate the philanthropic spirit 34 days? After all, 'tis it not the season of giving?
Starting on Tuesday, November 28, SJNA will be providing interesting snapshots and facts about our storied academy to inspire your philanthropic support! These tidbits of fun information will be updated daily on this page along with all of SJNA's social media platforms.
Donate Today...and visit often!
Today marks the end of our 34 Days of Giving campaign, and we want to express our sincere gratitude to our community for their support. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who generously donated to our cause. At SJNA, we understand that there are many deserving causes out there, and we are humbled that you chose to support us. With your help, we were able to raise more funds to provide young men and women with a foundation for future success.
We would also like to express our appreciation to those who followed our stories on social media, engaged by commenting, liking, and sharing our campaign. We are grateful for your support and encouragement.
Although our campaign was called the 34 Days of Giving, we want to thank everyone who supported SJNA in 2023. Your generosity and support are what make our work possible, and we cannot thank you enough. We are honored to have such a supportive and generous community. Thank you for making a difference!
With the guidance of advisor Michael Stadler, the Media Studies course at SJNA has produced a remarkable THIRTY-THREE episodes of Lancers News Network (LNN). LNN is a unique news and entertainment program created by students who are passionate about audio/video editing, production, and media writing. These episodes can be accessed on YouTube by searching for SJN Lancer News Network and are available for viewing at any time. Don't miss the chance to stay informed and entertained by watching LNN!
Check out our page here:
By modernizing our facilities and upgrading our technology, we can take our beloved show to the next level. Your generous financial support for programs like ours enables us to evaluate the viewing experience for our audience even further. Thank you for being an integral part of making this vision a reality.
The Noble Victory Memorial Chapel is a testament to the brave cadets who made the ultimate sacrifice during WWI. Adorned with THIRTY-TWO stunning stained-glass windows and THIRTY-TWO rows of pews, the chapel is a place where our students, staff, and faculty come together for weekly services, promotions, awards ceremonies, and musical performances.
Here at SJNA, we believe that spiritual and character growth is an essential part of our students' education. We foster this growth through regular interaction with our students, including weekly bible studies and pastoral counseling sessions. Our goal is to instill in them a sense of service before self, and to prepare them to become effective leaders in their communities and nations.
With your continued support, we can help our students develop the grace and faith they need to become the leaders of tomorrow. Together, we can ensure that their time at SJNA is not just an education, but a transformative experience that will have a lasting impact on their lives and the world around them.
Each year, our College and Career Counselor, Catherine Lewis, goes above and beyond to arrange visits with colleges, universities, service academies, and employers for our students. These visits are an excellent opportunity for our students to gain first-hand knowledge about the various opportunities that exist beyond SJNA.With THIRTY-ONE visits already planned for this year, it's safe to say that our students will have ample opportunities to broaden their horizons and make informed decisions about their future.
Hult International Business School, The United States Naval Academy, Hillsdale University, Xavier University, Grand Canyon University (GCU), Lewis University, the Citadel, and recruiters from our nation's armed services (Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Army, Navy) have visited our campus to meet with students. We also offer students the opportunity to travel off-campus to visit campuses, such as UW-Madison, UW-Whitewater, Service Academy Days, and the Wisconsin Aviation Center.
Your support helps fund our mission of creating well-rounded and mature young men and women, who are highly sought after by employers and universities alike. Through our extensive academic and leadership programs, SJNA has a proven track record of producing graduates who are well-prepared for life after graduation. Join us in creating a brighter future by investing in the next generation.
St. John's Northwestern Academies (SJNA) has a rich history dating back to 1884 when it was founded by Rev. Sydney Smythe. The school was established in a two-room schoolhouse that had been opened by Rev. James Dekoven THIRTY years earlier. The Episcopal Church was providing support to two schools in Wisconsin at the time, St. John’s Hall and Racine College, with the aim of attracting students to the seminary. However, due to financial difficulties and competition for students, St. John's Hall, which was under Dekoven's direction, was shut down. Dekoven was then transferred to Racine College to continue his work.
Thanks to the support of generous donors and families, Smythe and every administration that followed over the last 140 years has enabled SJNA to provide a unique and exceptional educational experience to its students.
Charles Miller is an exceptional teacher who has devoted TWENTY-NINE years to teaching at SJNA. From 7th-grade mathematics to precalculus and geometry, Mr. Miller has taught a range of classes and has served as the chess coach for over two decades.
He is a former United States Air Force officer who is passionate about instilling in his students a love for mathematics and encouraging discovery. Mr. Miller's ability to connect with his students has made a significant impact on their success at SJNA.
He has made a tremendous impact on countless students over the years, and his commitment to teaching is truly admirable. Whether you are a current or former student, it's hard to deny the positive influence Mr. Miller has had on SJNA's community.
Did Mr. Miller play a role in your success at SJNA?
In 1995, St. John’s Military Academy and Northwestern Military and Naval Academy merged in hopes of carrying both schools forward into the future. TWENTY-EIGHT years later, we stand as St. John’s Northwestern Academies, stronger and richer in history. We honor the legacies and missions of each school every day at SJNA.
The support we receive from our donors allows us to continue this tradition. Additionally, your contributions help us preserve our histories in our academy museum and archive. This museum has been in existence since 1984, commemorating the centenary of St. John's Military Academy. After the merger, it became the home of Northwestern Military and Naval Academy's history as well. We cherish this privilege.
Our collective history and mission are at the heart of everything we do at SJNA. We owe our ability to continue this legacy to the unwavering support of our donors. It is because of them that we can preserve our past and honor the traditions of both schools.
SJNA is not just any school - we pride ourselves on offering our students unique and exciting experiences that go beyond the classroom. Our Field Sports program is no exception, with Trap and Clays, Archery, and Marksmanship among the many activities available.
This academic year, our students will have the opportunity to compete in 27 competitions across all three shooting sports. And we're not stopping there - we've recently invested in our Field Sports program by remodeling the rifle range to include a locker room, doubling the size of the Marksmanship Armory, and even adding an indoor trap shooting simulator.
But we need your help to take our program to the next level. With your support, we can provide our teams with hard travel cases for rifles, team shotguns for boarding students from countries outside the USA, projectiles such as arrows, pellets, and shells, transportation, and a team utility vehicle.
By investing in our Field Sports program, you'll be investing in our students and helping them develop important skills such as focus, discipline, and teamwork. Join us in our mission to provide outstanding opportunities for our students - help us aim for more upgrades and keep SJNA at the forefront of education.
SJNA is honored to have TWENTY-SIX current members of the National Honor Society in grades 10-12. As part of the NHS program, students learn leadership skills and perform service for the academy and community. These students are leaders, both within the academy and in the community, and are committed to service and academic excellence. Membership in the Academy's NHS Chapter is highly selective, with students required to meet rigorous standards of scholarship, service, character, and leadership. Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.33 or higher, and have completed at least 30 hours of community service.
With a robust curriculum that challenges and engages students, the academy provides the foundation for academic excellence. Students in the NHS program have the opportunity to give back to the local community through fundraisers and community service projects, making a positive impact on the world around them. We are proud of our students and the work they do, both within the academy and in the community. The NHS program at SJNA is a testament to the academy's commitment to academic excellence, service, and leadership, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact these students will continue to have in the future.
At SJNA, we understand the importance of providing extensive care to our students. In addition to our 24/7 care, we have TWENTY-FIVE Residential Life staff who work tirelessly to develop and nurture your student outside of the classroom. We believe effective communication between Resident Life and families is essential to ensuring the success of our students. Our staff also organize fun off-campus activities including visits to local restaurants, shopping centers, and even laser tag, water parks and movie theaters.
By entrusting your child to SJNA, you can rest assured that they will receive the comprehensive care and support they deserve. Thank you for choosing SJNA as your partner in your child's education.
At SJNA, we understand that your students’ safety is a top priority. That's why we provide TWENTY-FOUR hour around-the-clock care to ensure their well-being and provide you with peace of mind. Our commitment to constant security is made possible by the generous contributions of our supporters.
Thanks to your help, we can continue to provide a safe and secure home away from home for your loved ones. Choose SJNA for your student's stay and rest easy knowing they're in good hands.
In January 2023, SJNA revolutionized its curriculum by introducing a new class on cyber security in partnership with Nicolas Chaillan, a world-renowned entrepreneur and former Chief Software Officer of the USAF and ASSF, with over TWENTY-THREE years of domestic and international experience in innovation, cybersecurity, software development, governance, risk management, and compliance. With this cutting-edge leadership, SJNA students are receiving the best possible foundation in this ever-growing sector. Join us in supporting SJNA as it stands out from the rest.
SJNA is proud to be a member of the Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States (AMCSUS). As an AMCSUS member, SJNA took part in the Fitness, Knowledge Bowl, and Drill competitions in Alexandria, Virginia competing head-to-head with some of the top military academies and JROTC high school programs across America. Despite being pushed both mentally and physically, SJNA cadets displayed determination, grit, teamwork, and perseverance, competing in event after event.
Under the leadership of CSM Elizalde, the twelve-person drill team competed against TWENTY-TWO other teams and secured third place. Additionally, SJNA’s former 1CPT was awarded the prestigious Superior Leadership Award, making history for SJNA.
With your unwavering support, we can continue to showcase the exceptional talent and potential of our fine young men and women in various competitions nationwide!
With TWENTY-ONE years of experience, our on-campus infirmary nurses are a valuable addition to our students' well-being. They are skilled and dedicated to administering medication, providing treatment for an illness, or tending to an injury. Our nurses prioritize your student's health and well-being, and with your support, we can offer the highest quality of treatment and care to your student.
We strive to keep the infirmary up-to-date with the necessary supplies and equipment needed to provide your student with the best treatment and care possible. This ensures that your student's home away from home is a safe and nurturing environment.
Join us in providing a safe and nurturing environment where your students can thrive. You can rest assured that they are in good hands with our experienced and compassionate nurses.
SJNA has partnered with DME Academy to create an exciting new opportunity for our student-athletes. This partnership will significantly enhance our sports program and give our students the chance to achieve their athletic goals at the highest level.
With DME Academy's track record of success, our basketball program is set to become one of the most elite programs in the country. The DME Boy's & Girl's Basketball Program competes with the best programs in the United States, including the likes of IMG Academy and Montverde. The program offers a proven balance of academic and athletic success, and our students are constantly pushing their limits, both on and off the court.
We are thrilled to provide our student-athletes with this unique opportunity to fulfill their dreams and reach their full potential. With your support, we can ensure that our partnership with DME Academy is a success and that our students have all the necessary resources to succeed.
June 22nd, 2023 marked a historic day for SJNA as former Lancer star, Brandon Podziemski, was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the NINETEENTH pick in the first round of the NBA Draft held in Brooklyn, New York. Podziemski's impressive career at St. John’s Northwestern included three dominant seasons and 2,154 career points. He was recognized three times as an All-State honoree, and in 2021 he received both the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association’s Mr. Basketball and the Gatorade Wisconsin Player of the Year awards.
At SJNA, we believe in providing our students with all the necessary resources to succeed, not just academically, but also in their athletic talents that could shine. With your support, we can ensure that our students have access to the best facilities, coaching, and equipment needed to excel in their sports. We believe in providing a well-rounded education that develops students' minds, bodies, and spirits, and we are committed to helping our students achieve their full potential. Thank you for your support in helping us achieve our goals.
SJNA is an incredibly diverse school, with students from all over the world. Currently, there are students from EIGHTEEN different countries studying at the school, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, China, South Korea, Mongolia, Brazil, Australia, Italy, Spain, Poland, Slovakia, Turkey, United Kingdom, Iceland, Argentina, Bahamas and Vietnam.
Your donation can help SJNA's enrollment team to participate in educational fairs around the world and online, which will enable them to reach out to more prospective students and families and share the school's mission. Recently, Juan Garcia, one of the school's enrollment counselors, traveled to South America and Mexico to speak with schools and prospective students about SJNA. This wouldn't be possible without the generous support of donors like you.
The Mess Hall at SJNA plays a vital role in the daily lives of our students. With SEVENTEEN years of experience, Dana Evans and her team work tirelessly to provide an extensive and well-balanced range of meals every week.
Throughout the week, a total of 19 meals are served, including 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners, and 2 brunches. The Mess Hall staff ensures that our students have access to delectable food choices that cater to their dietary needs. In addition to a well-rounded meal, students can also relish a diverse range of food creations, such as a full salad bar, waffle maker, and panini presses.
Your contributions to SJNA help support our partnership with FLIK, which provides us with a dedicated group of employees who take special care in the preparation and service of our meals on campus. Your support ensures that we can continue to offer the best possible meals to our students. Join us in supporting the health and well-being of our students by donating today.
SJNA Pipes & Drums is fortunate to own the pipe corp equipment, including uniforms and beautiful bagpipes. The team has SIXTEEN pipers, each playing an instrument valued at approximately $1,200, with an additional maintenance cost of about $100 per year per instrument. Moreover, each musician wears a uniform that costs approximately $1,000.
We are grateful for the donations that allow the organization to own these instruments and uniforms, which provide a unique opportunity for students to learn the bagpipes without incurring any costs. The program also benefits from the expertise of a dedicated instructor, Mr. Ben Peterson, who teaches lessons to those interested in mastering this intricate instrument.
FIFTEEN exceptional SJNA Raiders traveled to Marshfield, Missouri in October to compete in the Cadet Command 3rd Brigade Championship Meet against FIFTEEN of the best teams in the All-Male Division. With fierce determination, our 2023 Raiders Team excelled in various events, including the 5K, Cross Country Litter Carry, and Rope Bridge, placing 2nd overall, a remarkable achievement.
Making history, our first female cadet, Allison Belt, stepped forward to compete in a Raider Challenge meet and won 1st place in the Female Ultimate Raider Event, showcasing the incredible strength and capabilities of SJNA cadets.
Our Raiders’ team is a testament to the rigorous physical training and practice they undergo, with our obstacle course playing a crucial role in their preparation for meets. Help us maintain our equipment and support our team's transportation costs by making a donation today. Together, let's continue to empower our cadets to achieve their full potential and represent SJNA with excellence.
For FOURTEEN decades, students have walked the same paths, marched across these fields, and dined in the mess hall at St. John's Northwestern Academies. They have left this campus as better leaders, thanks to the institution's commitment to educating and developing responsible citizens, moral and ethical leaders, and individuals who are inspired to seize the opportunities of today and tomorrow. This is achieved through SJNA's foundational pillars of academic excellence, enriching spiritual and character development, outstanding athletic programs, and premier leader development training in a secure, nurturing, and inclusive environment.
The culture of leadership at SJNA empowers students to develop their unique strengths and take ownership of their lives. Since 1884, St. John's Northwestern Academies has served as an independent, private college preparatory school in Delafield, Wisconsin, offering both boarding and day school for aspiring boys and girls from middle school through high school, along with postgraduate programs.
Together, we can make a difference in the world by creating more leaders and paving the way for a new decade to come. With your support, we can achieve great things and leave a positive legacy for generations to come.
SJNA has a wide network across the United States, with ties to many States. Our current families and alumni spread far and wide, covering most of the country. At present, we have students from THIRTEEN different states — Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, California, Minnesota, New York, Texas, Florida, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and New Jersey.
Your contribution plays a vital role in supporting our enrollment team's efforts to visit educational fairs across the United States, as well as interact with prospective families virtually. Our team has recently visited California, New York, Illinois, Kentucky, Texas and your support has helped make that possible.
As a proud supporter of SJNA, you play a pivotal role in the success of our student-athletes. With TWELVE Varsity Sports Teams including Basketball, Football, Soccer, Baseball, Tennis, Swimming, Track and Field, Cross Country, Hockey, Wrestling, Lacrosse, and Golf, we are thrilled to announce that our first Softball team will be joining the ranks next spring.
As donors, you play a crucial role in providing our student-athletes with the necessary tools to succeed. With your contributions, we would be able to provide a new basketball shooting machine, ball equipment, and renovate our team meeting rooms. Additionally, we were able to cover the transportation costs associated with away games, allowing our teams to focus solely on their performance.
Your continued support will make a significant impact on the lives of our student-athletes, and we cannot thank you enough for your generosity. Join us in cheering on our Lancers as they continue to dominate the field, court, and track. Go Lancers!
Soccer is an incredibly exciting and dynamic team sport that pits two teams of ELEVEN players against each other on a large playing field. The SJNA/Chesterton Lancers dominated the 2023 season, earning several well-deserved recognition from the Midwest Classic Conference (MCC). With an impressive record of 12-4-1, the MCC and Regional Champions proved their prowess on the field, culminating in five of their players being named All-Conference. The team also took home the Defensive Player of the Year and Coach of the Year awards, solidifying their status as a dominant force in the league. The SJNA/Chesterton Lancers' remarkable success is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Your generous contributions help provide our teams with the vital equipment, field maintenance, and uniforms they need to succeed. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and support the growth and development of our teams.
Our TEN Battalion Staff Members are exceptional leaders on campus, who assist in many areas of daily operations, such as community outreach, military standing, and the overall Academies’ efficiency and success.
For instance, First Captain Hamer is the commander of the 140th Crops and ensures the general welfare and success of Cadets. Command Sergeant Major Aguilar sets the standards and creates a structure for our Corps of Cadets, and the S5 Academics NCO Ko monitors the Corps' academic standing, organizing programs like peer tutoring for both Academies.
Contributions help to fund programs like JROTC, which help develop our students into young leaders.
SJNA's innovative drone program is a first of its kind, offering students the opportunity to pilot and record with cutting-edge technology. Our personal drone instructor guides students through photography, video editing, and career skills, making SJNA the perfect fit for young minds looking to explore engineering, robotics, and aviation.
With NINE students already enrolled, SJNA's groundbreaking program is revolutionizing the field and paving the way for a new generation of drone pilots.
Your continued support will help us provide exceptional technology that advances our students' skillset. Together, we can empower young minds to explore new frontiers in engineering, robotics, and aviation, and prepare them for a successful future.
We are fortunate to have a talented group of EIGHT drummers in the SJNA Pipes & Drums. Our organization is well-equipped to provide our students with high-quality instruments and uniforms. Each student plays an instrument valued at around $900 and requires an annual maintenance cost of roughly $50. Additionally, our musicians wear uniforms that cost approximately $1,000.
Your support is essential in helping us to acquire and maintain the instruments and uniforms required for the SJNA Pipes & Drums. Thanks to your generous donations, we are able to provide students with the chance to participate in this program without having to worry about the financial costs.
A school day at SJNA is made up of SEVEN class periods. Each student has up to 7 classes each semester! Our class sizes are small, averaging 12 students per class. Course periods last 45 minutes, allowing time during the day for advisory, study halls, and a long lunch period.
Your donation makes it possible for SJNA to provide diverse and dynamic course offerings. SJNA offers students courses they may not be able to get at other schools, such as cybersecurity, ACT Prep, advanced Chinese, and drone pilot certification.
SJNA has expanded its Middle School Academy to include sixth-grade students. This means that the Academies can now host a full middle school, providing students with a wider range of development opportunities to help them reach their full potential. The Middle School Academy is made up of both Prefect and Military students from sixth to eighth grade, who will attend classes together on a special floor dedicated exclusively to the Middle School Academy.
All Middle School Academy students will study various subjects including English, mathematics, science, history, physical education, leader development, and an elective in fine arts, foreign language, or technology. Self-awareness, empathy, teamwork, and responsible decision-making are some of the main themes of SJNA's proprietary middle school curriculum. The curriculum also includes project-based learning and local field trips to increase interest and engagement in the middle school experience.
St. John’s Northwestern Middle School Academy is committed to educating and transforming boys and girls through sound educational practices to be relevant and inclusive learners. The school develops their knowledge, critical thinking skills, and character necessary to succeed in high school while preparing them to be responsible citizens. This is all possible with the support of the community.
Character and Spiritual Development is a key component of SJNA's education. Every week, students attend chapel at our Noble Victory Memorial Chapel, which is a truly beautiful space. In addition to chapel services, Father Aldridge leads a weekly Bible study, an extensive Acolyte program and even offers an optional Holy Eucharist service on feast days. He is also available for pastoral counseling FIVE days a week, and offers both students and staff a weekly confessional. Additionally, our chapel services are open to the public. The chapel is a sight to behold, with its stunning stained glass and rose windows.
If you're familiar with SJNA, you might know about the four pillars that make up the foundation of every decision we make here. These include academic excellence, spiritual and character development, athletics, and leadership development.
These four pillars are the foundation of every decision we make, and they have helped us shape countless successful students. Our commitment to these pillars has also led to incredible achievements, including FOUR alumni currently serving in service academies - United States Military Academy at West Point and United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. By choosing SJNA, you can be confident that you'll receive a well-rounded education that prepares you for success in all areas of life.
At SJNA, we offer THREE housing options for students, which are known as Barracks or Resident Halls. Male students are currently housed in Scott Johnson Hall and DeKoven Hall, while Smythe Hall is designated as female housing. We are constantly striving to improve our housing facilities and amenities to ensure that our students have the best possible living experience.
We are thrilled to share that our campus dorm rooms and lounges are currently undergoing renovations to provide your child with the most comfortable and welcoming home away from home. These renovations will include modern amenities and aim to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community. By supporting these renovations, you are investing in your child's future and providing them with the best possible experience. Thank you for your continued support!
SJNA's Military and Prefect Academy is dedicated to empowering students to achieve personal and professional success. Our top TWO student leaders, First Captain Hamer and Head Prefect Stellato embody the qualities we strive to instill in all of our future leaders.
Your generous donations are what make it possible for us to provide our students with exceptional mentors and programs, such as JROTC, which offers unparalleled leadership training. By supporting SJNA, you are investing in the future of our students and helping them become the leaders of tomorrow. Join us in shaping the leaders of tomorrow by supporting SJNA today.
St. John's Northwestern Academies has proudly secured the top position as the best Christian high school in Wisconsin, as recognized by Niche Schools. Niche Schools' rankings are based on comprehensive statistics and millions of student and parent opinions. In Wisconsin alone, St. John's Northwestern Academies is ranked #1 among 55 Christian high schools, #2 among 11 boarding high schools, and #6 among 101 private high schools. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the school's commitment to providing unparalleled education, boarding facilities, and overall experience to its students. St. John's Northwestern Academies is a top choice for students aspiring to thrive academically and grow as individuals in a supportive and nurturing community.
Join us in making a significant difference in the lives of our SJNA students over the next 34 days. Your contribution can help us create a welcoming and nurturing environment allowing our students to reach their full potential and achieve personal success. With your generous support, SJNA can provide exceptional mentors and programs that go above and beyond for our students.
