On February 3, 2015, the renewal signing of the Sustaining Agreement between Gesu School and the Maryland Province of the Society of Jesus took place. Fr. Robert Hussey, S.J., Provincial, attended the ceremony in Philadelphia to execute the agreement, which acknowledges the sponsorship of Gesu School by the Maryland Province and affirms “the commitment to this shared ministry” among Gesu’s Board of Trustees, the Society of Jesus, and the Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters. Gesu is one of only two Jesuit elementary schools (pre-K through eighth grade) nationwide.

In 2014, Gesu underwent the rigorous review process. The renewal agreement officially recognizing Gesu as a Jesuit school was “unanimously and enthusiastically” endorsed. 

The Gesu community commemorated the signing with reflections on why attending a Jesuit/IHM school is meaningful. Bryan Carter, President/CEO of Gesu School, commented, “As a lay president and the ‘Director of the Work,’ I am fortunate to have at Gesu School the presence of the Jesuits, Fr. Neil Ver‘Schneider, and the IHM sisters, Sr. Ellen Convey and Sr. Pat McGrenra, as partners in forming our children to be men and women for others.”

The Gesu Gospel Choir set a celebratory and solemn tone, singing “Jesus Christ Is the Way” and a dedication to Pope Francis, “I Am a Friend of God.” Student testimonials also highlighted the value of a Jesuit/IHM education. “Gesu students and faculty are encouraged to live the Magis in their daily lives—in and out of school. Doing your all to be your best, and serving God and others is worked into the curriculum. Learning how to live by Jesuit mottos and customs is taught not only in class, but by example,” shared eighth grade student, Ishea.