When Linda Anderson took over as principal at St. Bernard’s High School in Fitchburg, the Diocese of Worcester was just months away from announcing it could no longer afford to support the school.
Yet, Anderson stayed as a board of trustees was formed to take over, transitioning St. Bernard’s to a privately run Catholic high school and the only one in the region. Anderson has since seen enrollment numbers swell, with a projected 60% increase from the 105-student body she initially took over, all while keeping classes largely in-person since fall of 2020. With that growing student body has come an affirmation of financial support from alumni, with Anderson leading a $2.5-million capital campaign. Where there was once a school thought destined for closure, under Anderson’s leadership is instead a school that appears destined for growth and serving the community. The school’s campus ministry conducted service projects with the Spanish American Center and the Haitian Outreach Project, and Anderson took on a large role collaborating with United Way of North Central Mass’ Project Hunger and Toys for Tots and Making Opportunity Count, Inc. in Fitchburg.
What movie or TV character would you like to be? George Washington from Hamilton. I’m just amazed at the way he’s depicted: strong, undistracted by nonsense, humble, and discerning. All things I strive to be!
What one Central Mass. activity should everyone try? You must come see a Worcester Red Sox game! It’s magical! The lights are hearts! And they dance!
What items have you crossed off your bucket list? I’ve traveled solo in Europe, enrolled at Harvard, and been blessed with two beautiful children, an amazing husband, and a community I love.
