Employees of Holy Names Academy feel a connection to their mission that sets them apart. It helps that they are guided by a woman who once walked the halls as a student at the all-girls school.

The high grades they gave the school for Washington CEO Magazine's Best Companies to Work For competition have earned the high school honors as the best nonprofit to work for.

Judges were impressed by the consistency of positive responses to the survey. "This was a group of people who clearly felt passionate about their jobs and the company they worked for, and it just seemed like they spoke with one voice about a common mission," says judge Scott Ofstead, vice president of human resources at Kibble & Prentice. He adds that the school "sounds like somewhere I would love to work."

More than one employee deemed it the best work environment of their career.

"As a first-year employee of HNA, I am amazed at the welcoming, helpful and kind culture of such a high-achieving company," wrote one. "The standards for employees are set high, but the supportive environment helps everyone to continually improve."

The school's principal, Elizabeth Swift, graduated from Holy Names in 1971. After college, she returned to teach math and science for a decade, followed by another decade as vice principal. She was named principal 13 years ago, but she still teaches physics. "I'm invested in the system. ... I've spent a lifetime here," she says.

And she's not alone. At least a dozen staff members are also Holy Names graduates, says Swift.

Holy Names was the first Catholic school in Seattle -- founded 128 years ago -- and is the oldest continually operating school in the area. The school, which has graduated more than 8,600 students, emphasizes academics, community service, ethics and leadership.

During her tenure, Swift has seen the faith-based school evolve with changes in technology and area demographics. While eight of the school's 49 teachers are nuns, members of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, staff members are not required to be practicing Catholics.

Of the school's 658 students, a third are minorities and a third are receiving financial assistance. The girls, admitted in large part based on academic achievements, come from 98 middle schools in the Puget Sound area.

"They're very good students. They're competitive, but they're collaborative," says Swift.

That same formula holds true for the school's teachers, maintenance and administrative staff, who gather for an informal briefing every Thursday afternoon.

Wrote one employee: "I work for a terrific company with dedicated personnel, clear mission and students who know they can learn to make a difference in this world."

A collegial mentality drives daily interactions among staff members, who assist each other through difficulties and encourage one another to achieve personal and professional milestones, says Swift.

Staff members take part in daylong and halfday retreats each year.

"I think the biannual retreats are an opportunity for us to be focused on our mission," says Swift. "It's also a time for us to come together as a community, to get to know one another, to build esprit de corps."

The retreats culminate in afternoon activities ranging from bowling and canoeing to a yoga class or museum tour. Employees choose from several options, depending on their interests and strengths, says Swift.

The size of the staff lends itself well to peercreated committees, and Swift says there are several ad hoc groups at the school. One example is the "Active Group," started by employees three years ago, which promotes healthy living. Members meet monthly for lunch and activities.