Sister Yliana Hernández

Sister Yliana Hernández has spent her life helping others with a sense of compassion and dignity. Born in Central Tinguaro, in the Province of Matanzas, on the Island of Cuba, she immigrated to the United States in 1961.

Sister Yliana joined the Order of the Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary several years after arriving in the United States. Since that time she has devoted her life to helping people in need. Advancing the cause of education has always been a priority for her.She taught several grade levels throughout her teaching career and has held the position of principal of the Nora Cronin Presentation Academy in Newburgh since 2006.

The Nora Cronin Presentation Academy is a private middle school for girls, which recently moved into its new home in the heart of Newburgh in November 2011. As principal, Sister Yliana was instrumental in overseeing the extensive renovations to the 19th century building that now instructs 60 girls with a combination of full-time and volunteer teachers.

Always one to think of others, Sister Yliana has dedicated her life to improving the educational prospects of the girls in the Newburgh community. Through her efforts, the Nora Cronin Presentation Academy graduates have had the extra guidance and specialized education that will take them to the next level in their lives. This educational enrichment not only helps the students but also makes the entire Newburgh community a better place in which to live.

Sister Yliana finds great joy in seeing our youth grow and learn. She has devoted her life to encouraging and inspiring her students to continue learning and has made her community a better place in which to live.