The 2024-2025 school year at St. Mary’s Academy kicked off with a generous gift from former NBA star and sports commentator Charles Barkley. Barkley has committed to giving $1 million to the Academy over the next ten years.

Barkley’s gift was sparked by a viewing of the “60 Minutes” segment that aired nationally in May, which told the compelling story of St. Mary’s Academy and two exceptional students who used trigonometry to prove the 2000-year-old Pythagorean Theorem, something once deemed impossible by mathematicians.

“We are forever grateful for Mr. Barkley’s gift and his support of our students. This transformative gift will assist students as they excel and achieve whatever dream they create within the walls of St. Mary’s Academy,” says Pamela Rogers, President of St. Mary’s Academy. “His generosity supports the mission of St. Mary’s Academy and reinforces our commitment to educating young people.” 

“Mr. Barkley is thrilled to support St. Mary's Academy and is very focused on transforming future generations through education and opportunities. He has a love and passion for what the academy stands for and how it is shaping the lives and futures of young girls in New Orleans,” a representative from the Charles Barkley Foundation shared. 

St. Mary’s Academy plans to use this ten-year gift to enhance its legendary educational experience and provide students with opportunities to grow and develop in the classroom and the New Orleans community.