On a day filled with celebration, more than 200 community members—including families, friends, alumni, faculty, and staff gathered on a beautiful Saturday afternoon to commemorate the grand opening of the Sister Gervaise Valpey, OP Community Center.

The grand opening celebration was held during the 2025 Alumni Reunion, allowing SD community members of all eras to witness together the culmination of an eight-year journey. The gorgeous multi-purpose building includes event, classroom, and fitness space, an all-gender bathroom, and an outdoor terrace overlooking the now fully completed Aquatic Complex.
 
“It was an incredible day,” shares Director of Advancement Anna Heidinger. “There was a sense of joy, delight, and fulfillment that a project so needed in the life of our community could honor Sister Gervaise, who is such an important figure in our school history.”

Sister Gervaise Valpey, President Emerita of San Domenico, lived in the campus dormitories for 50 years, and embodies the spirit of community that this new space aims to foster. Her deep familiarity with the campus and her dedication to bringing people together made her the perfect inspiration for this new gathering place on the west side of campus.

“Sister Gervaise is truly a cornerstone to the soul of what San Domenico is about,” adds Heidinger. “Many guests at the celebration have known Sister Gervaise for decades, highlighting the profound connections that weave through our rich campus history.”

Thanks to the guidance and expertise of the Master Planning Facilities Committee, the project evolved from an initial focus on creating a new competition-sized pool—continuing a long-standing aquatics tradition that dates back many decades at SD—to a broader vision of establishing a vibrant gathering space for students, faculty, and community members. Beyond its practical functions, the new building has transformed the campus atmosphere. “It's brought such lift to our community,” remarks Heidinger.

The project also speaks to the power of legacy, with many contributing families having long-standing ties to both the school and Sister Gervaise. “Their support speaks to the enduring legacy of San Domenico as an exceptional school,” continues Heidhinger. “The community center is a meaningful addition to our campus, one that honors the past while serving present and future generations.”

We celebrate not just a new building, but a space dedicated to connection, reflection, and the vibrant community that defines San Domenico.