Notre Dame HS Marks 150 Years
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Notre Dame High School marked the kickoff of its 150th anniversary celebration with a Jubilee Mass held at the Michael and Eleanor Miller Theater.
The Mass began at 9:45 a.m. and was led by Bishop Mark Beckman.
Many area priests attended the service, along with members of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia who traveled from Nashville for the celebration.
Students, faculty, alumni, and staff were also in attendance, followed by a light breakfast reception.
Notre Dame High School was founded in 1876 by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia at the request of Reverend Patrick Ryan.
It is the oldest private school in the area, and its first graduating class completed their studies in 1881.
In 1963, Notre Dame High School became the first school in the Chattanooga area to become racially integrated.
The current campus on Vermont Avenue was completed in 1965, with additional campus expansions completed in 2001 and 2009.
Today, Notre Dame High School serves 419 students.
In 2025, 100 percent of seniors graduated and were accepted to 86 colleges and universities, with 93 percent earning academic or athletic scholarships.
The kickoff event marks the beginning of a year-long celebration recognizing 150 years of tradition, excellence, and achievement at Notre Dame High School.
