By Florida Catholic staff - Florida Catholic
By Barbara Branas
Photographer: COURTESY
Pamela Moore Rogers is an alumnus of Immaculata La Salle's class of 1975. Rogers is the first lay person appointed as president and interim principal of St. Mary's Academy, an all-girl African American Catholic school in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded by the Sisters of the Holy Family in 1867. The school was a 2024 finalist for the Yass Prize, and received $ 500,000.
MIAMI| Pamela Moore Rogers, a graduate of Immaculata-La Salle (ILS) class of 1975, has spent her life dedicated to the field of education, exemplifying leadership, resilience, and compassion. In 2022, she was named the first lay president and interim principal of St. Mary’s Academy in New Orleans, Louisiana, an all-girls African American Catholic school founded in 1867 by the Sisters of the Holy Family.
In September 2024, St. Mary’s Academy was chosen as one of four finalists for the Yass Prize, a year-round initiative partnered with The Center for Education Reform (CER) and Forbes, devoted to finding, rewarding, expanding, and accelerating transformational education providers. St. Mary’s Academy was recognized for providing sustainable and transformative education.
“The Yass Prize, worth a total of $500,000 for the Academy will go towards accelerating the educational experience of each student at St. Mary’s Academy today and in the future,” said Rogers in an Instagram post.
St. Mary’s Academy was also featured in a story in May 2024 for the television news program 60 Minutes. The coverage attracted the attention of NBA legend Charles Barkley, who pledged $1 million to the school, and has already made his first gift.
Throughout her career, Rogers has worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for students, particularly in the face of significant challenges. One of the biggest hurdles Rogers faces in her current role is securing financial support and resources for her students.
“As an educator, I am constantly addressing the need for financial assistance,” she explains.
The landscape of education has become more demanding, with increased pressure on teachers to raise test scores, while also dealing with shortages of educational professionals. In addition, the misuse of social media poses a growing challenge in classrooms. Despite these pressures, Rogers remains committed to her mission, using her leadership to guide St. Mary’s Academy through difficult times.
She also offers valuable insight to fellow educators, encouraging them to stay focused on what truly matters. Her advice is grounded in purpose.
“Stay true to your mission and vision, and make sure it is ingrained in the daily operations of your school, from the faculty and staff to the students and parents,” she said. This approach reinforces the importance of consistency and dedication in navigating the complex world of education.
For Rogers, educators are not just teachers but role models who offer students invaluable life lessons and a positive environment for growth. She believes that in the face of adversity, educators must remain pillars of stability, providing the kind of instruction and mentorship that prepares students for life beyond the classroom.
Rogers’ ability to stay grounded in her mission stems from her personal sources of inspiration. Drawing deeply from her faith and her unwavering belief in the potential of every student, she finds strength in moments of reflection.
“When I feel that a day has been particularly tough, I remind myself of all the students who have walked through the doors of St. Mary’s Academy and gone on to great success,” she reflects.
These memories not only inspire her but also fuel her passion, reminding her that the impact of her work extends far beyond the present, touching the future of her students and their communities.
Looking back on her own educational journey, Rogers recognizes how formative her time at Immaculata-La Salle was in shaping her current role. Reflecting on this, she acknowledges the profound role ILS played in preparing her for life.
"ILS provided me with a strong foundation, both academically and spiritually," she shares.
This foundation gave her the confidence to transition smoothly into college life at Xavier University of Louisiana, where she continued her Catholic education. Rogers fondly recalls the supportive and nurturing environment at ILS, expressing gratitude for the sacrifices her family made to provide her with such a formative experience. It is clear that her time at ILS played a pivotal role in shaping the compassionate and driven leader she is today.
Rogers’ contributions extend beyond the school walls, as she actively serves on various boards and committees dedicated to enhancing the lives of others, all while continuing her deep commitment to Catholic education. She embodies the spirit of service, leadership, and dedication that defines the ILS community. Through her leadership, Rogers demonstrates the profound impact that a Catholic education can have, not only on individual students, but on entire communities.
This is a slightly edited version of an article written by Barbara Branas, who serves as director of alumni relations and special events at Immaculata-La Salle High.
