When Dr. Laura Hotchkiss stepped into her role as Head of School at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur, one of the first things she noticed was the palpable sense of care and compassion that permeated the campus. Inspired by the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Notre Dame and the school’s mission to educate the whole student, Dr. Hotchkiss launched ND Cares—a school-wide wellness initiative designed to support the emotional, mental, and academic well-being of every student.

A Holistic Approach to Student Wellness

ND Cares reflects a bold, holistic approach to wellness, grounded in the belief that students thrive when they are supported in every area of their lives. Dr. Hotchkiss’s vision has grown into a comprehensive network of programs and resources led by women—from school counselors and learning support specialists to devoted alumnae who have returned to give back.

With students at the heart of the initiative, ND Cares brings together an interdisciplinary team focused on building resilience, normalizing access to mental health resources, and reducing the stigma around seeking help. Since its launch, the initiative has expanded in meaningful ways—including a multi-year partnership with The JED Foundation and the integration of community-based programming through organizations like SpeakUp!, now led by ND alumna Martie Gillin Bernicker ’85.

Director of Student Support and Well-Being Laura Schmidt has played a key role in building this vision into a movement. From placing wellness resource cards throughout campus to launching advisory lessons, counseling seminars, and the popular #WinAtSocial curriculum, Schmidt and her team are reshaping how students view mental health—both for themselves and one another.

Strategic Partnerships Drive Real Results

In the fall of 2022, ND Cares entered a new phase with the launch of a three-year partnership with JED, using data the school community gathered to shape responsive programming. The results have already made an impact: students report feeling more supported and aware of where to turn for help. A dedicated Middle School counselor supports the unique needs of grades 6–8, while Upper School students work with the same counselor throughout their four years, fostering lasting relationships and continuity of care.

New this school year, the ND Cares Student Leadership Team will guide peer-centered initiatives, including a campus-wide mental wellness morning in partnership with Minding Your Mind.

As the program continues to grow, one thing remains constant: women lead the way. From Dr. Hotchkiss’s founding vision to the alumnae who lend their voice, time, and experience, ND Cares is a shining example of how women can, and do, create lasting change when they lead with empathy, insight, and purpose.

Main Line Parent selected Dr. Laura Hotchkiss as a 2025 Women of Influence Award Winner—learn more about her and why she earned this recognition from among our nominees.