Gerard Academy, a provider of psychological, psychiatric and behavioral needs of children and adolescents, is proud to announce that it will celebrate its 40th anniversary on Thursday, Aug. 20 on the campus of the academy.

Gerard Academy Executive Director Brent Henry said, “To reflect on 40 years of Gerard history is rather humbling. I think first and foremost of all the youth, children and families whose lives have been changed through their association with Gerard.

While Gerard as a treatment program has been in existence for 40 years, the people providing the services that changes lives, has changed many times over the years, including changes of ownership. There have been many dedicated, compassionate individuals who have dedicated their lives to the service of others.

“While those served by Gerard and those employed by Gerard has changed, the constant theme that ties us all together, and has never changed, is Gerard’s purpose of influencing and changing the lives of all who enter here,” Henry said.  “That purpose has remained constant whether it be 1969 or 2009.”

Gerard Academy has been a part of the Austin community since 1969 when Joseph Endres first opened it as Gerard School.

Now, as a member of the Nexus family of treatment programs, Gerard Academy employs more than 140 people. The campus is situated on the former Hormel Estate and is led by executive director Brent Henry, clinical director Pam Retterath and administrative services director Kay Stiles.