Earlier this month, senior students participated in the etiquette brunch. The interactive event, which has been happening for over ten years at Academy of Holy Angels, takes place in the Parlor as a formal backdrop for this special dining and educational opportunity.
Students are out-of-uniform for the day and are asked to dress formally. As part of the lesson, they learn and practice greetings, dining protocols such as which utensils to use at each course, what to expect of the host(s) and the servers, and how to manage the social graces of such an experience.
Principal Heidi Foley, who leads and teaches this event, said, “Knowing and practicing the appropriate dining and table manners and skills at a formal event allows students to focus on the people and the occasion, rather than be self-conscious about the dining mechanics themselves. The etiquette brunch is also special for me, as it allows me to spend enjoyable time with our seniors in this unique setting. I look forward to it every year.”
The etiquette brunch is also a memorable event for alumni. Alums have shared that the lessons they learned not only helped them gain confidence in formal dining situations, but it also built their preparedness for business interviews and in professional settings. Ann McComas-Bussa, theology teacher, added, “The students welcome this opportunity to dress up at school. They get to have meaningful experiences on this day, including eating in the Parlor - our most special, fancy room in the school, being instructed by the principal, Heidi Foley. They love getting to know her better. They really seem to like everything about it, including the special food Chef Uriah makes for them!”