From Inspiration to Action: Students Attend Mercy Leadership Conference

In June, Merion Mercy Academy students Brynn Deveney, Brigid Hankee, and Willow Matthews joined more than 25 students from six Mercy schools—including participants from Honduras—for the Mercy Education Conference of Mercy Student Leaders at Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pennsylvania. Selected for their outstanding leadership and the way they embody the spirit and values of Mercy, the students spent several days exploring this year's theme: the Sisters of Mercy Critical Concern for Women.

Led by Kimberly Baxter, Associate Director of Mercy Education Systems of the Americas, the annual conference examined how Mercy values inspire leadership and service. Through presentations, discussions, and interactive activities, students explored ways to raise awareness of the Critical Concerns, strengthen their leadership skills, and develop the confidence, teamwork, and vision needed to create meaningful change. Each school also shared how it lives the Mercy spirit through a presentation highlighting its unique community.

The conference offered more than leadership development—it also created opportunities to build lasting connections with students from other Mercy schools. Participants took part in a personality inventory, served at local Mercy ministries, and collaborated during a "Show & Share," where each school unveiled plans for service and leadership initiatives they will bring back to their campuses this fall.

The experience concluded with a prayer liturgy and commissioning ceremony, sending students home inspired to put their learning into action. For Brynn, Brigid, and Willow, the conference was a meaningful opportunity to deepen their understanding of Mercy leadership, forge new friendships, and return to Merion Mercy ready to make a difference.