Sister Judith Therese Barial

2010 Louisiana Role Model
International Trends & Services Facet

Sister Judith Barial provided visionary guidance and leadership to the Sisters of the Holy Family in establishing Delille Academy, a Catholic High School in Dangriga, Belize.  The concept for the high school began in 1987 as an outreach program to provide fundamental and holistic education to young females of Dangriga who had completed primary school, but were denied placement in high school. Known then as the Christian Youth Enrichment (CYE), the curriculum consisted primarily of informal classes which included Music, Arts and Crafts, as well as Counseling.   Classes were held on Saturdays during the academic year and daily during the summer months. 

In September 1989, Sister Judith was given permission to leave her teaching assignment at the Ecumenical College in order to dedicate her efforts on a fulltime basis to the growing demands of CYE.  The school’s curriculum had grown and now consisted of classes in a variety of subject areas.  Approximately 15 students were enrolled.  Through Sister Judith’s hard work, sacrifices and persistence, the school achieved its accreditation by the Ministry of Education in June 1996.  By 1998, Sister Judith’s dream was realized as the school was officially named Delille Academy, a four- year Catholic high school.  That year was particularly memorable for Sister Judith, as the Sisters of the Holy Family celebrated 100 years of service to the community of Dangriga and Belize.  Because of Sister Judith’s efforts and the Sisters of the Holy Family and others, the school now has its own campus and currently has a student enrollment in excess of 500.  The Pontchartrain Chapter of the Links has contributed significantly to Delille Academy in support of Sister Judith and the Sisters of the Holy Family.  

Sister Judith, thank you for advancing educational opportunities for young females in Dangriga, Belize.  You are an inspiration to all!