House System

Toussaint House honors Venerable Pierre Toussaint, a formerly enslaved Haitian American who became a successful New York hairdresser and was renowned for his generosity, faith, and charitable service. The comb and scissors recall his profession and the dignity he brought to his work. St. Patrick’s Cathedral represents his lasting connection to the Catholic Church in New York, while the yellow hibiscus honors his Haitian heritage. The bee and honeycomb symbolize diligence, generosity, and the strength of a community working together.

Day House is named for Dorothy Day, the writer, activist, and co-founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, whose faith inspired a lifelong commitment to peace, hospitality, and service to people in need. The open door represents her radical welcome of others, while the newspaper recalls The Catholic Worker, which she used to advocate for justice and human dignity. The bread symbolizes nourishment, generosity, and care for the hungry. The beaver represents industriousness, cooperation, and the patient work of building community.

Seton House is named for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, an educator, religious sister, and pioneer of Catholic education in the United States. The anchor represents hope, steadfast faith, and her family’s connection to the sea. The open book honors her vocation as a teacher and founder of schools. The Star of the Sea reflects Mary’s guidance and the light of faith, while the bear represents strength, courage, and protective care for others. The waves reinforce the House’s themes of perseverance and trust through life’s changing circumstances.