Padua Academy offers a variety of clubs and organizations to encourage each student to pursue her passions beyond the classroom.
2024-2025 Activity List

80’s Culture (30) B Club
Mr. Lang and Mr. Rolph, Guidance Conference Room
Do you want your MTV?  Do you feel the need...the need for speed??  Let's go back to the future!  The 1980s was an explosive decade that continues to influence our world today.  From  movies to music to world events, the 80s have had a lasting effect on much of what we see and experience today.  Join our group to have fun watching movies, recapping world events, listening to music and discussing the impact that the 80s still has on our society.  

Academic Bowl (30) A Club
Mrs. Powers and Mrs. Kirillova, Room 310
This is an activity for those who like answering questions on a variety of subjects or are fans of the TV show Jeopardy®. In this activity you will work in teams to demonstrate quick thinking as you try to “buzz in” with the correct response before your opponents. In any one match topics may include history, geography, science, religion, sports, politics, famous personalities, etc. Quick thinking, confidence, and the ability to laugh at your own mistakes are essential requirements. There will also be evening competitions scheduled in October through January against other Catholic high schools in the diocese as we compete for the Academic Bowl, with the final championship game as a highlight of Catholic Schools Week.

Agape (30) B Club
Mrs. Vintigni, Room 322
Agape emphasizes the message of St. Francis DeSales to “Be who you are and be that well.” Agape greets every student with open arms, open hearts, and open minds. God gives Agape love, unconditional love, to all regardless of one’s identity. This club promotes acceptance for all Padua students who may be experiencing adversity or need support. Agape actively fosters awareness, respect, and justice in order to nurture a supportive environment and more accepting school community, while advocating for the advancement of inclusivity in our world. All are welcome in the Love Club! 🫶

**NEW** American Sign Language (20) A Club
Mrs. Sperratore-Colagreco, Room 412
The American Sign Language (ASL) club will discuss the history of the deaf community, the origin of the sign movement, and practice signing with other students! We will be learning signs related to school, emotions, everyday life, and of course the alphabet! We will be communicating with the deaf community local to the area to expand our practice! Hope to see you there 🫶!

Asian Culture Club (25) B Club
Mrs. Markham, Room 324
This activity is a great way to unwind and meet people with similar interests in music, anime, and Asian art and culture. Occasionally, we also meet online to watch music videos or films from Korea, Japan and China.  We welcome recommendations and encourage all Asian students to share their culture, language and writing. Snacks will be provided but donations are highly appreciated too. We hope to see you there!  

**NEW** B-ware (24) B Club
Mrs. Powers, Room 310
The B-ware club will offer lessons, strategies, tips, and activities for students interested in maximizing personal safety and minimizing exposure to potential dangers in a variety of situations, to include: city living, road safety, assault prevention, social/peer pressure, domestic violence. Other topics may be addressed depending on club member interests/concerns. Club members may create informational posters to be placed around the school, informing the students of safety strategies for various situations. The club may also sponsor a self defense seminar to teach and perform actual self-defense moves; this would be made available to the student body and would require a permission slip for participation.

Blue Gold (50) A Club
Mrs. Carrington and Ms. McCarthy, Cafe
Blue Gold is an organization that raises awareness and funding for individuals with cognitive challenges. We work with DFRC, Special Olympics, and the Down Syndrome Association (DSA). We organize and co-run events throughout the year, including the Pie Auction, Christmas Party, and Bingo Night. Blue Gold will consist of ambassadors and volunteers. All volunteers must attend Blue Gold events and their corresponding meetings. If you are interested in being an ambassador or board member, you must be available for additional meetings on Zoom with DFRC and be willing to take on leadership responsibilities. Ambassadors and board members are selected based on past participation and leadership. All of those interested in volunteering with Blue Gold, including past members, must complete an application after signing up. Click here for the application. 

Cause for the Paws (25) B Club
Mrs. Campbell, Room 408
We aim to spread awareness, educate people, and donate our time/money to the goal of eliminating animal cruelty and suffering. We do this by organizing and hosting a variety of different events that help bring people’s attention to this cause.

**NEW** Computers and Culture (18) B Club
Mrs. Schneider and Mr. Equels, Room 12
We will investigate and discuss the impact media, pop culture and art has had on Americans’ perception of computers and AI through the use of classic SciFi movies, TV and literature.  We will look at the roles robots & AI have had and we’ll discuss fact vs fiction and reality vs fears, as well as current concerns and/or misconceptions related to the future of technology and our society.  We will also look at machine learning and the current AI tools available and the ethical use of these things.

Cyber Patriot (12) B Club
Mrs. Castellano, IT Office (Basement)
CyberPatriot is a nationwide cybersecurity competition that challenges teams to find and correct vulnerabilities in virtual machines, or computer emulations. 

**NEW** Debate Club (20) A Club
Dr. Bozanic, Room 326
Exciting news, Padua students! This year, we’re launching a brand-new club dedicated to debate—a space where your voice matters and your ideas can shine. Each week, we’ll introduce a fresh bracket of topics, giving you the freedom to choose potential topics you want to discuss. From pressing global issues to the latest trends in pop culture and even matters close to home, our debates will cover it all! Worried about public speaking? The Padua Debate Club is here to equip you with the skills you need. We’ll guide you through essential debating techniques and help you conquer stage fright, turning it into stage confidence! And remember, this club isn’t just for aspiring lawyers or business moguls; it’s for everyone who wants to sharpen their critical thinking, express their opinions, and engage in lively discussions. Join us for fun-filled end-of-debate parties, collaborative small group discussions, and dedicated prep days that will make you a more articulate speaker. We’re excited to cultivate a vibrant community of debaters who are eager to learn, grow, and have a blast along the way! We can’t wait to see you at Padua Debate—where your voice takes center stage!

Dissection Club (25) B Club
Mr. Lawler and Mr. Schimpf, Room 404
Students with an interest in anatomy & physiology are invited to join this club. Here we will get the unique opportunity to dive deeper into learning about animals and eventually dissect a few specimens. The aim of this club is to spread awareness of the necessity of biodiversity in our world and to obtain a greater appreciation for the ecological roles each species carries. This club is student funded and will require active participation. 

DIY: Merchandise (25) B Club
Mrs. Sperratore-Colagreco, Room 412
Do you want to be able to make your own merchandise?! This activity will help you achieve that goal!  DIY: Merchandise will dive into creating etched glassware, designed logos for clothing, wall decor and much more.  Students will learn how to use Cricut software to design and cut decals.  This activity has a fee of $30 per semester for materials. No experience needed! We will learn together! 

Environmental Conservation Club ECC (25)  A Club
Mr. Lawler, Room 406  
This activity is for those who enjoy the environment.  This club is a way to give back as a steward of the environment. Club members will develop projects that make our school a healthier, “greener” environment. Our group will also work to improve the environment within the local community.

Fashion Design (15) B Club
Mrs. Mrozek, Room 414
In this activity, we will learn to draw fashion illustrations and create a line of fashions inspired by your personal aesthetic.  Students will have the option to use the sewing machine.  Space is limited to 10 participants due to studio size. There is a $15 materials fee due at first session.  We will also watch various movie clips of designers, fashion shows, costumes, etc. No experience is needed, just an interest in fashion! There will also be the opportunity to display your work at the end of the year Art / Fashion show. 

French Club (25) B Club
Mrs. Burris, Room 226
A fun way to engage with other students who like French - games, snacks, cooking lessons - what more can you ask for? You don't even need to be a French student - all are welcome!

**NEW** Future Teachers (15) A and B Club
Mrs. Cronin, Room 424
Club Description: The Future Teachers Club is for anyone interested in the education profession. If you have an interest in being a classroom teacher, counselor, administrator, coach, athletic trainer, speech therapist, social worker, etc…, this club may be for you. The Future Teachers Club will develop your leadership skills, test your creativity and give you the opportunity to network with professionals in the educational field.

Genealogy (12) A Club
Dr. Hall and Mrs. Schneider, Room 318
We uncover family history! We use historical documents, databases, and first-person interviews to uncover our personal stories! 

**NEW** German Language and Culture (20) B Club
Dr. Hall, Room 316
This activity invites students from all grades to learn basic German language and culture and features German customs around holidays. Some highlights will include sampling soft pretzels and Spezi (soda that combines Coke or Pepsi and orange soda) for Oktoberfest and German Christmas cookies, as well as decorating an Ostereierbaum (Easter tree)!

Girls United (20) B Club
Mrs. Kowalski, Learning Commons
Girls United is a club that will raise awareness for women in leadership positions as well as those in underserved communities. We will assess needs at local women's shelters and work on providing support.

**NEW** Guitar Club (20) B Club
Dr. Bozanic, Room 326
Do you love to play the guitar? Have you always wanted to learn guitar but never got the chance? Is there a guitar sitting at home collecting dust that’s just waiting for someone to play it? If you answered yes to any of these questions, the new Guitar Club is the answer for you. Dr. Bozanic will guide you through the basics of tuning, strumming, fretting, picking, changing strings, reading tablature, using a capo, and so much more. This activity is designed to be a relaxed, jam session-like environment for Padua students to either learn the basics of playing guitar or continue to improve their skills on a six string. The group will play through a variety of songs, share performance tips, and offer beginner lessons on playing and maintaining a guitar. Members will be invited to bring in/suggest songs for the group to play. The selections will draw from a variety of genres so whether you like folk, country, rock, Christian, jazz, musical theatre or anything in between, all are welcome to join. No musical skills are required and there is no after school commitment or performance expectation, just an appreciation for the awesomeness of the guitar. Don’t have a guitar of your own? No problem as Dr. Bozanic will have several available for students to use at each session (including a left-handed guitar). Practice your picking or shredding skills, develop new ones, work with your sisters, and, above all, have fun filling the Big Box of Love with beautiful melodies.

**NEW** Habitat for Humanity (25) B Club
Mr. Cross and Mrs. Phelps, Room 320
Habitat for Humanity (HFH) is one of the largest nonprofit homebuilders in the world, dedicated to providing families in need with safe, affordable housing. The mission of Padua’s HFH activity is to make a positive impact for families in need in our local community. Activity members will have the opportunity to work alongside families to help build their future homes, participate in community clean-up days, create artwork that the family can hang in their new home, volunteer at the Wilmington HFH Restore, and learn how to use construction tools. Students who participate in Build days and the Restore must be 16 or older while anyone can participate in clean-up days and other aspects of the club. Main community service events (like Build Days) take place outside of the Thursday activity times, and are optional however highly encouraged. Most importantly, through charity, service, and sisterhood, we’ll be making a positive difference in the lives of others right here in our community!

Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) (30)  A Club
Mrs. Kowalski, Room 106
An organization for anyone interested in the heath field. The purpose of HOSA is to develop leadership and HOSA skill competencies through a program of motivation, awareness and recognition. We will hear from guest speakers in the health field, as well as participate in competitions. There is a possible trip to the national conference in June. All members will need to pay a $10 membership fee for national dues. 

Hey, what color are your nails?! (22) A and B Club
Mrs. Townsend, Room 422
Do you like to paint your nails or your friends’ nails?  Would you like to practice nail art or try some nail stickers?  Join the nail polish club!  This club will provide a great time to relax, talk with your friends, and leave with a fresh manicure!  Club members will need to bring their own supplies to each meeting.

Hungry Pandas (30) B Club
Mrs. O’Connell, Room 222
Do you like to cook? Do you enjoy baking? Or, are you a foodie who simply appreciates delicious food? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, consider joining Padua’s Culinary Club – “Hungry Pandas”. This group of gourmandes will gather to explore cuisines from various cultures, learn dining etiquette and practice cake-decorating skills. Bring your appetite to the “Hungry Pandas” meetings. Application required! This activity has a fee of $5. 

It’s Always Christmas in 302 (20) B Club
Mrs. Holladay and Ms. Iacono, Room 302
Do you love Christmas? Are you counting the days until Santa arrives?  Join us in 302 for all things Christmas. We will watch Christmas movie favorites, share Christmas cookie recipes (and cookies), and even learn how to wrap fancy gifts!

Let’s Play Chess (20) A and B Club 
Mr. Cross and Mr. Helie, Room 308
Whether you consider yourself a chess master, or are someone who has always wanted to learn to play chess, join us as we break out the checkered boards (and snacks) and enjoy some friendly and fierce competitions.

Math League (25) AFTER SCHOOL
Mr. Helie
Do you like math and have an interest in competing with students from other schools? Math League participates in several competitions throughout the year. Competitions are held locally or virtually and typically take place after school. We have two freshman teams and three 10th-12th grade teams. Preference for 10th-12th graders will be given to those who have participated in previous years.

**NEW** Ministry Minions (15) A Club
Mrs. Duppel, Campus Ministry Office
Work with the Campus Minister in designing prayer, bulletin boards, flyers, prayer services and much more.  

Mock Trial (30) AFTER SCHOOL
Mrs. Heagy/Mrs. Markham
Are you interested in learning more about the judicial system? Do you enjoy public speaking and/or acting? If so, consider joining Mock Trial. In this activity, students play the roles of attorneys and witnesses as part of a statewide competition held in February. Students develop opening and closing statements as well as direct and cross examinations, and members of the Delaware Judiciary and Bar serve as judges and jurors. This activity requires commitment but offers the opportunity to enhance logical thinking and public speaking skills. 

Music Ministry AFTER SCHOOL
Dr. Bozanic and Mrs. Alinda
Padua's Music Ministry is responsible for leading the community in song at the school liturgies and prayer services each month. It is a great opportunity to have fun together, choose the music for Mass, and work on new arrangements. If you like to sing, we'd love to have you join us. Students who play instruments (piano, guitar, etc) are also invited to consider adding your talents and gifts to make our worship even better. To prepare for services, practices will be held outside of school hours (not during the Activity Period), usually before school from 7:45am-8:05am and after school from 2:45-3:30pm at least 3 to 4 times per month. Please email Dr. Bozanic or Mrs. Alinda if you have any questions.

PANDAmonium (30) B Club
Ms. Bonvetti and Mrs. G., GYM
Panda Spirit Group. Athletes and Non-Athletes can sign up for the group to help with athletic events, managers, set up spirit groups for game attendance, run Athletic Twitter, etc

Pilates (20) A Club
Mrs. Kiefer, GYM
During each meeting, we will do a series of exercises to strengthen your body and relax your mind, giving you the confidence you need to take on the rest of your day! This activity welcomes students of all athletic abilities and skill levels. The only required materials will be a fitness mat or towel and a water bottle.

Puzzle Time (25) B Club 
Dr. Smith, Room 106
100, 500, 750, 1000! Let's do a puzzle!

**NEW** Santa’s Workshop (15) A Club
Mrs. Mrozek, Room 414
In this activity we will create beautiful hand crafted items such as stained glass ornaments, watercolor Christmas cards, jewelry-making, tie dye accessories, wreaths, etc.  Students are welcome to think of items to make and sell as well! We will first sell our items at the "Sip and Shop" event in early December, and then again at the "Evening of the Arts" in May. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to World Vision. No previous art skills are needed

Sewing and Embroidery (20) B Club
Mrs. Kirillova, Room 426
For those who enjoy handicrafts and want to try something new: sewing and embroidery is for you! Develop your skills and enjoy a stress-relieving hobby. We'll learn simple things like sewing buttons and fixing hems, then move onto hand embroidering beautiful decorative designs, and much more! Once you learn the basics of sewing and embroidery, the world of fashion design opens up to you. This club is suitable for both beginners and those with experience. There is a $10 fee for supplies and materials.

Student Council A Club
Mrs. Schneider, Ms. Horton and Mr. Equels, Room 104
All members of Student Council are required to sign up for this activity.  If you are a Freshman Homeroom Rep or a Sophomore, Junior, or Senior class officer, this is the time we will gather together to plan all our school events including Spirit Week, Winter Ball, and the Father/Daughter Event.  As an elected member of Student Council your participation is valuable.  This is a mandatory activity for you.


The Alliance (50) A Club, Learning Commons
  • Black Student Union (Ms. Closson and Mrs. Phelps)
  • Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Awareness-“IDEA” (Mr. Mahler)
  • La Mezcla (Mrs. Vintigni)
The Alliance is a group of students who celebrate the diversity of the Padua sisterhood through sharing experiences and supporting one another.  Those of you who were previously members of BSU, IDEA, or La Mezcla, this is our new home.  Recognizing that many people have more than one racial/ethnic heritage, we are joining together as allies for, and sisters to, one another.  The Alliance is a place where we join together to discuss race and culture and bring awareness to the complexities of race and ethnicity.  We work together to highlight the unique experiences and identities of Padua’s students of color.  As one student said, “We are not all the same and that is beautiful.” If you are looking for a safe space to share your experiences and your voice as a student of color, the Alliance is a place where you can do so.

The Book Sisters (20) A Club
Mrs. Furlong Room 224
Students who join The Book Sisters will have the opportunity to read quietly while enjoying coffee and baked treats. Meetings will be spent sharing current “reads”, working on programming to encourage choice reading at Padua, and eventually reading a selected novel together. If you enjoy reading or would like quiet time to read for fun, this is the space for you!

The Leukemia Lymphoma Society Club (30) B Club
Ms. Ivkovitch, Room 402 
The primary focus of this club will be working on organization and leadership skills for the Student of the Year campaigns going on outside of Padua. Our main goal is to give students the opportunity to get involved in philanthropy and immerse themselves in the cancer research community. We will connect with students running for Student of the Year through LLS from Padua to connect and brainstorm with each other and get advice when needed. 

**NEW** The Lily (20) A Club
Mr. Stopyra, Room 102
This activity is working to create a new literary and arts magazine for Padua, called The Lily. This activity will allow students to create original work that we hope to publish for the school community. The Lily may include (but it is not limited to) short stories, personal memoirs, poetry, cartoons, and articles.  It is your opportunity to have something you’ve produced in a magazine that will be published to Padua. During the activity period, we will focus on writing, creating, organizing, and designing the magazine. The Lily is a place for you to explore your creative side without pressure.

The Stroll Sisters (20) B Club 
Mrs. Higley and Mrs. Long, Cafe
Step into clarity, away from study sessions and screen time. Connect with nature and breathe in the fresh air as you take a leisurely stroll down to the reservoir. Bond with your fellow students while engaging in meaningful conversation over a new topic each time we meet. No preparation. No test. No stress. Sign up today and come take a stroll with the Padua Academy Stroll Sisters.

Travel Fun with Padua's Patrons (20) B Club
Mr. Stopyra, Room 102
This activity is required for students who are going on the Germany, Poland, and Czech Republic trip in June 2025. This activity will prepare you for the trip so you can get the most out of it. We will learn about the history, art, architecture, and food of the locations that we will visit in Berlin, Warsaw, Krakow, Auschwitz, and Prague. Practical information concerning the trip will be covered, too, so you will be ready to enjoy your travel experience.
 
Yarn 'n String (25) A Club
Mrs. Campbell, Room 408
Enjoy some time developing the relaxing skill of knitting, crocheting and friendship bracelet making. No matter what your skill level, you are welcome to join! All club members will need to bring their own supplies. We will have different activities, service opportunities and free time for crafting.

Yearbook Leaders (15) B Club
Ms. Horton, Room 104
This activity, exclusive to Advanced Publications students, meets on B Club days. Students have the unique opportunity to work one-on-one with Ms. Horton. They will collaborate closely on meeting the crucial deadlines for the Padua yearbook. This club provides hands-on experience with real-world responsibilities and deadlines, a valuable opportunity for any student interested in pursuing publications and journalism. 

Young Playwrights & Theatre Artists (20) A Club
Mrs. Markham and Mr. Schimpf, Room 324
Create live theatre together! Learn and practice the crafts of the theatre. Whether your interest is in playwriting, acting, directing, or designing, this is a place to cultivate your passion together. Actors need scripts, writers need performers, and all the world's a stage! Interested students may submit their work for the Young Playwrights Festival. Great portfolio or History Day possibilities....
Spirituality. Scholarship. Service. Sisterhood.