The Union County SHERO Awards are given to women who are at least 18 years old, reside or work within Union County, and have made a meaningful impact in their communities—regardless of their role or area of focus. The SHERO Award is a one-time honor, proudly recognizing extraordinary women for their lasting impact.

All the award winners reflected the rich fabric of Union County, each bringing a unique perspective and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the community. Their efforts serve as an inspiration, embodying the spirit of Women’s History Month and the values proudly upheld in Union County.

When Andrews, the Assistant Principal at Union Catholic, learned she had been selected, she was stunned.

“I was completely shocked, and I am very humbled,'' said Andrews.

For more than 40 years, Andrews has been a cornerstone of the Union Catholic community. She has served as an educator, mentor, and leader whose steadfast dedication has left an indelible mark on the school and the countless lives she has touched throughout her remarkable career.

Asked what has kept her motivated and passionate about serving the school community for so many years, Andrews credited the people around her.

“Motivation comes from the people I work for and the people I work with,'' said Andrews. "The Union Catholic community comprises administrators, faculty, counselors, and staff who are passionate about their work. They are constantly pushing the envelope to be on top of the current trends and to support our students in this ever-changing world academically, athletically, spiritually, and in service to others. It has been so rewarding to work with people who share the same mind and mission.”

Throughout her decades of service, Andrews has exemplified the mission and core values of Union Catholic—community, respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion. She has consistently fostered a supportive, faith-based learning environment where both students and teachers are encouraged to thrive academically, spiritually, and personally. Her leadership has helped shape not only academic excellence, but also a culture of kindness, collaboration, and integrity that defines the school community.

One of Andrews’ most impactful contributions has been her visionary leadership in Virtual High School programming. Long before online and blended learning became widely embraced, she recognized the transformative potential of digital education to expand opportunities for students.

Reflecting on that journey, Andrews explained how innovation at Union Catholic often began with bold ideas and visionary leadership.

“Virtual learning at Union Catholic truly began with the ‘Anywhere, Anytime Learning’ initiative and the infusion of laptops,'' she said. "Just a few years later, we partnered with VHS Learning, then known as Virtual High School, in what became another transformative step forward. Like so many of our best initiatives, it happened somewhat serendipitously. I attended a presentation, returned to share the idea with Sister Percylee (UC's former longtime Principal), and, as always, the visionary, she simply said, ‘Go for it.’”

She said it has been remarkable to witness how far that first step has grown.

“We began with just five students,'' Andrews said. "John Rotondo (a current faculty member) was part of that very first group—and it is amazing to see where that journey has led him and so many others today. From there came the adoption of the Canvas Learning Management System, an explosion of online resources and digital learning opportunities, and eventually, the arrival of AI in 2023, which continues to reshape and expand the possibilities of education.”

Equally significant has been her commitment to teacher mentorship and professional development. Over the years, Andrews has guided countless educators with wisdom, patience, and professionalism. Through formal initiatives and daily collaboration alike, she cultivated a faculty culture rooted in growth, reflection, innovation, and excellence.

When asked what has been most rewarding about helping others grow and succeed, Andrews responded with her trademark humility and humor.

“I get so excited when my teachers and students are curious and passionate,'' said Andrews. "Watching them fly means everything to me. They teach me!”

Most recently, Andrews has led the exploration and integration of artificial intelligence into the educational landscape at Union Catholic. Her forward-thinking leadership positioned the school at the forefront of educational innovation. Under her guidance, Union Catholic earned the prestigious 2025 RAIL Certificate of Achievement, recognizing excellence in educational practices, programs, infrastructure, governance, and culture, as well as the school’s Responsible AI in Learning Endorsement in literacy, safety, and ethics.

Asked why it is important for schools to embrace innovation while keeping strong values at the center of AI in education, Andrews made clear that ethics must lead the way.

“Strong ethical values are at the core of AI in education,'' she said. "Our teachers strive to prepare our students for the real world by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed for an undefined and ever-evolving future. At the same time, we are committed to cultivating ethical habits, integrity, and responsibility so that our students grow not only into successful adults but also into compassionate citizens and meaningful contributors to the world around them.”

Looking back on her time at Union Catholic, Andrews said she is most proud of the school’s commitment to innovation while remaining grounded in its mission.

“I am very proud of the work we have done to remain innovative and forward-thinking for our students in today’s ever-changing world,'' she said. "It has been an incredibly satisfying and exciting journey ever since the laptop initiative began 27 years ago. That pivotal moment inspired me to pursue a Master’s degree in Educational Technology, which became the foundation for so much of what followed throughout my career. I have been truly blessed to work in such a creative and visionary environment alongside extraordinary mentors like Sister Percylee and Mike Marotti (a former Assistant Principal at Union Catholic), as well as colleagues who not only embrace the vision but bring it to life every day.”

The SHERO Award celebrates women throughout Union County who have made meaningful and lasting contributions through leadership, advocacy, service, and compassion. Andrews’ recognition reflects the profound impact she has had on generations of students, educators, and families.

In every endeavor, Andrews has embodied the heart and spirit of Union Catholic. Her dedication, vision, and compassion have strengthened the school community and enriched the lives of all who have had the privilege to work alongside her. She is an extraordinary educator and leader whose legacy will continue to inspire excellence for years to come.

Congratulations to Noreen Andrews on this well-deserved honor and for being an inspiration to the entire Union Catholic community.