Completed Searches
2024 Appointed Leaders
- Principal - Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy, Middle Village, NY
- Principal - Cathedral High School, New York, NY
- President - Saint Saviour Catholic Academy, Brooklyn, NY
- President - John Paul II High School, Plano, TX
- Vice Principal of Academics - Notre Dame Academy, Hingham, MA
- Principal - Notre Dame High School, Salinas, CA
- Principal - Saint Ann Catholic School, Naples, FL
- President - Northwest Catholic High School, West Hartford, CT
- President - Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, Delran, NJ
- Vice President of Advancement - Archbishop Spalding High School, Severn, MD
- President - St. Michael the Archangel High School, Baton Rouge, LA
- President - Lancaster Catholic High School, Lancaster, PA
- President - Mount Notre Dame High School, Cincinnati, OH
- President - Christian Brothers Collegiate High School, St. Louis, MO
- Vice President of Advancement - Cardinal Spellman High School, Bronx, NY
- President - Junípero Serra High School, San Mateo, CA
- President - Mercy Career & Technical High School, Philadelphia, PA
- President - Mount de Sales Academy, Macon, GA
- Director of Athletics - Gonzaga College High School, Washington, DC
- Superintendent of Catholic Schools - Archdiocese of San Francisco, CA
- Head of School - Lial Catholic School, Whitehouse, OH
- President - Blessed Trinity Catholic High School, Roswell, GA
- Principal - St. Brendan the Navigator School, Hillard, OH
- President - Holy Cross High School, Dover, DE
- Superintendent of Schools - Catholic Diocese of Richmond, Richmond, VA
Principal - Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy, Middle Village, NY
Kara McCarthy
Principal
Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy
Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy’s Board of Trustees and Board of Members recently announced Mrs. Kara McCarthy as their next principal effective August 15, 2024.
Mrs. McCarthy brings a vision of servant leadership that flows from the experience and insights she has gained through more than 24 years in Catholic education. She served for 10 years as an elementary school teacher at Notre Dame School in New Hyde Park and has served for the past 14 years in the same Catholic school as Assistant Principal.
About Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy
Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy has a long-standing tradition of offering a top-notch education to its students, consistently outperforming the local public school district and the immediate neighboring public schools in NYS and Regents exams. In addition to the academic program, Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy offers a variety of after-school programs, such as Science Olympiad, National Junior Honor Society, drama club, and music. A state-of-the-art facility with a STEM Lab and a newly renovated Multipurpose Room, Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy is the pride of Middle Village, NY.
Principal - Cathedral High School, New York, NY
Jessica Aybar
Principal
Cathedral High School
Cathedral High School has announced Ms. Jessica Aybar as Principal effective August 12, 2024.
Ms. Aybar comes to Cathedral High School from St. Athanasius School in the Bronx where she served as Executive Principal and had previously served as principal, academic dean, and teacher. Ms. Aybar holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of Notre Dame and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Queens College. She was born and raised in the Bronx and is a graduate of Cardinal Spellman High School; and today, Ms. Aybar, her husband, and their three boys are parishioners at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Shrub Oak, NY.
About Cathedral High School
Cathedral High School is an all-girls Catholic college preparatory school in the Archdiocese of New York. Located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Cathedral offers a robust curriculum, vibrant student life, and a long-standing tradition of friendship and sisterhood. The mission of Cathedral High School is to provide a transformative Catholic education that challenges young women to fulfill their academic potential, inspires them to lead and serve their communities, and imbues them with a deep sense of their own human dignity.
President - Saint Saviour Catholic Academy, Brooklyn, NY
Dean J. Fusto
President
Saint Saviour Catholic Academy
Saint Saviour Catholic Academy announced the hire of Dean J. Fusto, as SSCA’s inaugural President, effective July 2024.
Mr. Fusto, a product of K-12 Catholic education, has dedicated his storied career to education—he has served at almost every level, from his early teaching, coaching, and dormitory head days, to his many administrative roles. He has served as Director for Development, a Head of School, a President, and most recently, a specially created role of Executive Head of School at the School of the Blessed Sacrament in Manhattan, overseeing two different campuses. Bilingual in both Spanish and English, he has created outreach programs in the Dominican Republic and lead delegations to St. Lucia, Cote d’Ivoire, Vietnam, and Hong Kong. Mr. Fusto, following his strong belief in the value of education, has continually sought to fill out his own educational resume with advanced degrees, certificates, and educational fellowships from some of our most esteemed educational institutions, including Columbia University, Cornell University, and Harvard University.
About Saint Saviour Catholic Academy
“Small school, big heart” are the words Saint Saviour Catholic Academy uses to capture its special culture and spirit. Indeed, Saint Saviour is a unicorn of a Catholic elementary school: small by design in its intimate, three-story brick home; progressive, responsive, and advanced in its curriculum and instructional approach; and, inclusive and welcoming to students and families of diverse backgrounds and faiths. Half of the student body identifies as non-Catholic, and 63% are students of color.
President - John Paul II High School, Plano, TX
Casey Buckstaff
President
John Paul II High School
John Paul II High School announced the selection of Casey Buckstaff as the fourth (4th) President of John Paul II High School. This follows a comprehensive search guided by the dedicated Search Committee and endorsed by Bishop Edward Burns and the John Paul II High School Board of Directors.
Casey brings a wealth of experience and dedication to Catholic education to this important role. She is a product of Catholic education, earning her undergraduate degree (BA) and a Master of Non-Profit Administration from the University of Notre Dame and Master in the Art of Teaching from Notre Dame of Maryland University. As the captain of the rowing team at the University of Notre Dame, and in every team she has led throughout her career, Casey’s enthusiasm and leadership paved the way for creative strategies and high expectations for success. She possesses a strong track record leading Catholic educational institutions, fostering academic excellence, and nurturing spirituality and faithfulness among students, faculty, and families.
About John Paul II High School
John Paul II High School was founded in 2005 to offer a high quality, faithbased education to the Catholic community and others in the region surrounding Dallas-Fort Worth. In its first year, JPII welcomed 300 students in grades 9-11 occupying half of the repurposed facility. Since then, the student population has grown steadily to over 700 students. Thomas Poore served as JPII’s founding President until his retirement in the summer of 2017. During his time, Poore helped to develop the school’s academic, athletic, and extracurricular programming and strengthen its standing in the community. True to the inaugural pillars of the school, the two succeeding presidents continued to advance and grow the school. For the 2023-24, Mr. Karl Ertle, is serving as Interim President after a successful 13-year tenure as President of Walsh Jesuit High School in Cleveland, Ohio. Principal Kayla Brown is in her second year at John Paul II after serving Ursuline Academy of Dallas for 15 years in various leadership capacities.
Vice Principal of Academics - Notre Dame Academy, Hingham, MA
Brendan McKiernan
Vice Principal of Academics
Notre Dame Academy
Brendan McKiernan has been announced as the new Vice Principal of Academics at Notre Dame Academy in Hingham, MA. Brendan comes from Thayer Academy where he was a Math Teacher, Class Dean, JV Basketball Coach.
About Notre Dame Academy
Notre Dame Academy, located in Hingham, MA, is seeking a Vice Principal of Academics to begin in July of 2024. A college-preparatory high school educating young women in grades 7-12, Notre Dame Academy (NDA) is a vibrant, Catholic, learning community, sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. The Academy guides young women in their personal faith formation, challenges students to pursue academic excellence, and encourages social responsibility on behalf of global justice. Since their founding days, they have “trained up strong women." Over 450 young women call NDA home.
Principal - Notre Dame High School, Salinas, CA
Dr. Timothy Uhl
Principal
Notre Dame High School
Most Reverend Daniel E. Garcia, Bishop of Monterey, appointed Dr. Timothy Uhl to be the next principal of Notre Dame High School. Partners in Mission School Leadership Search Solutions lead the national search. After considering a number of applicants, the members of the Search Committee unanimously recommended Dr. Uhl for the position.
Dr. Uhl has a wealth of experience in Catholic education, as well as a strong network of Catholic educators and leaders. With experience as a high school teacher, college professor, principal, and superintendent of schools, Dr. Uhl will prayerfully and strategically guide the Notre Dame High School community, informed by his multi-level experiences, and enriched by his professional relationships. He is deeply committed to Catholic education and actively involved in his Catholic faith. An author, blogger, presenter, and podcaster, he has researched and addressed the most pressing issues facing Catholic schools and dioceses across the nation. He looks forward to shepherding Notre Dame High School, committed to increasing enrollment and enhancing community engagement.
About Notre Dame High School
Notre Dame High School, located in Salinas, CA, is seeking a Principal to begin in July 2024. Empowering young women to lead extraordinary lives, Notre Dame High School is a college preparatory, Catholic high school for young women who seek wisdom to further develop as leaders and model Christ in service to others. The school community is committed to the development of the whole person – providing for the intellectual, spiritual, moral, physical, social, and emotional growth specifically of young women.
Principal - Saint Ann Catholic School, Naples, FL
Micah O'Connor
Principal
Saint Ann School
Saint Ann School announced Micah O'Connor as their new Principal. Micah's previous position as principal at Our Lady of Fatima Parish School in Huntington, WV, has prepared her well for this new role. She is eager to work alongside the dedicated students, staff, and families of Saint Ann and the Diocese of Venice.
About Saint Ann School
For nearly 70 years, Saint Ann Catholic School in Naples, Florida, has been led by its Catholic identity while providing excellent education in a caring learning environment. Serving over 450 students from Pre-K to 8th grade, it focuses on holistic development within the Diocese of Venice. Accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference, it is a supportive learning community. It excels in standardized testing and offers honors and gifted programs. Their faith-based curriculum cultivates a personal connection with God and promotes Catholic values.
President - Northwest Catholic High School, West Hartford, CT
Michael J. Clark
President
Northwest Catholic High School
Northwest Catholic High School is proud to announce the appointment of Michael J. Clark as its new president. He will officially begin his role this summer, embarking on an exciting new chapter for our community.
With an illustrious career spanning over twenty-four years in progressive Catholic educational leadership, Mr. Clark brings a wealth of experience as an Associate Superintendent, Head of School, teacher, and mentor, with a focus on student growth and continuous improvement in fostering highly effective high school learning communities.
A distinguished leader in Catholic education, Clark is recognized as the sole Catholic school leader in the nation to have successfully established a junior/senior high school under merger-pandemic circumstances. As the Founding Head of School at Saint Paul Diocesan Junior-Senior High School, Mr. Clark spearheaded the merger of two Worcester diocesan junior-senior high schools into a newly constituted institution. His leadership also secured funds totaling $6.3 million for the project, ensuring the school's financial stability. Today, Saint Paul operates debt-free.
About Northwest Catholic High School
Located in West Hartford, CT, Northwest Catholic High School (NWC) is a diverse, Catholic, coeducational, college-preparatory school of over 400 students whose mission is to educate the whole person, mind, body, spirit, and imagination. This distinguished school community develops leaders who faithfully serve God and others. NWC fosters faith in God, which gives meaning and direction to life; challenges and guides students in the pursuit of spiritual, academic, and physical excellence; develops versatile leaders; cultivates a desire to serve God and others; and promotes justice and truth in a global world.
President - Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, Delran, NJ
Rob DeMasi
President
Holy Cross Preparatory Academy
The Holy Cross Preparatory Academy Board of Trustees announced the appointment of Rob DeMasi as the new president of Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, effective July 1, 2024.
Rob DeMasi will join the HCPA community from Saint Mark’s High School, located in Wilmington, Delaware, where he has served since 2019 as the Vice President of Enrollment Management. During Rob’s tenure, enrollment increased 65% over four years. As a result of this exponential growth Saint Mark’s has become the fastest growing Catholic High School in Delaware.
About Holy Cross Preparatory Academy
Located in Delran, NJ, Holy Cross is a private, coeducational, Catholic, preparatory high school established in 2018 with the written permission of the Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton. Guided by its motto, "Honoring our Traditions, Pursuing our Future," Holy Cross, the only independent, Catholic, preparatory high school in Burlington County, New Jersey, inspires students of all faiths and backgrounds to be thinkers, innovators, and leaders. Students are challenged and engaged in its rigorous academic curriculum, competitive athletics, and concentration on the arts. The school's dedicated faculty and staff help students reach beyond their expectations and define success by their achievements, preparing them to excel at universities and become engaged, future stewards for the Church and our society. Supported by the generosity of its early stakeholders and an extensive alumni network, the school has enjoyed consistent year-over-year enrollment growth. Currently, over 300 coed students call this campus home.
Vice President of Advancement - Archbishop Spalding High School, Severn, MD
Ashley Stewart
Vice President of advancement
Archbishop Spalding High School
Archbishop Spalding High School announced that Ashley Stewart will be taking over the role of Vice President for Advancement for Archbishop Spalding starting June 1st. Ashley brings vast experience to this position, having previously served as the Associate Director of Advancement for the Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart in Princeton New Jersey. In addition to her experience, she is an alum from the Class of 2004, this is truly a homecoming for Ashley.
About Archbishop Spalding High School
Under the direction of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Archbishop Spalding High School was founded in 1963 as a parish high school for girls and was originally staffed by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. Known at the time as Holy Trinity High School, the school relocated to the present campus in Severn, Maryland, in 1966.
President - St. Michael the Archangel High School, Baton Rouge, LA
Ryan Empson
President
St. Michael the Archangel
For the past several months, Partners in Mission School Leadership Search Solutions has worked with the Diocesan Catholic Schools Office and a group of stakeholders comprising a search committee in their quest to recruit a new President and Principal for St. Michael the Archangel Diocesan Regional School.
It gives us great pleasure to announce that Mr. Ryan Empson will serve as President of St. Michael’s beginning 01 July 2024. Mr. Empson’s expertise in leadership and service in the Catholic school system, coupled with his knowledge of the greater Baton Rouge community, will be a great asset to St. Michael’s so that the school can continue its positive trajectory of growth and excellence!
About St. Michael the Archangel
St. Michael is a co-educational, college-preparatory school, grades 9-12, for students who are seeking a traditional, comprehensive, Catholic education. With a passionate, experienced faculty and a rich and challenging curriculum, St. Michael provides the ideal environment for students to achieve their full potential. Students are encouraged to work hard, to dream big, and to see academic success as an exciting and worthwhile pursuit. St. Michael the Archangel Diocesan Regional Catholic High School was established in 1984 by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge.
President - Lancaster Catholic High School, Lancaster, PA
Kyla Hockley
President
Lancaster Catholic High School
The Most Reverend Timothy C. Senior, Bishop of Harrisburg, has appointed Mrs. Kayla Hockley as the next President of Lancaster Catholic High School.
A Lancaster native, Kyla is an alumna of Lancaster Catholic High School and holds higher education degrees from Saint Vincent College, Duquesne University and Marymount University. Kyla has spent her career in Catholic education. She served as the Director of Religious Education for a parish in Pittsburgh before returning to Lancaster Catholic to serve as a Theology teacher and then Admissions Director. During the past four years, Kyla has served as Principal of Saint John Neumann Catholic School in Lancaster, where she successfully grew enrollment by 60% and developed a comprehensive financial model for the school, increasing the tuition assistance tax-credit program by 400%.
About Lancaster Catholic High School
Since 1928, Lancaster Catholic High School has provided generations of young men and women a superior education rooted in faith, tradition, and excellence. Centered on Jesus Christ for over 95 years and in the Roman Catholic tradition, the mission of Lancaster Catholic High School has been to form students who are intellectually astute, passionately faithful, and socially responsible.
As the school enters its second century, 85 faculty and staff members work ceaselessly to provide an education that integrates the foundations of the Catholic faith with the highest standards of academic achievement to 494 students. The student to teacher ratio is currently 10:1. Lancaster Catholic provides a transformational experience for each student equipping them to better serve their communities through the lens of Catholic identity by sharing the gifts and talents they have been blessed with.
President - Mount Notre Dame High School, Cincinnati, OH
Michelle Robinson
President
Mount Notre Dame
Mount Notre Dame is thrilled to welcome Michelle Robinson as our new president. As a Catholic herself, Michelle is excited to uphold and strengthen MND's rich Catholic identity. Inspired by the charism of the sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and a shared belief in the goodness of God, Michelle eagerly anticipates serving and leading within a community that shares her faith tradition. We are honored to embark on this journey with her, confident in her dedication to our school's mission and values.
About Mount Notre Dame
Mount Notre Dame offers a unique and complete college preparatory experience. It is an experience that is rooted in Catholic tradition and features a vibrant learning community, offering superior academics and a comprehensive education. There are vast extracurricular opportunities for our students that foster leadership, teamwork and a sense of responsibility to share their gifts with others. The result – bright, confident young women who go on to excel in college, career and in life.
President - Christian Brothers Collegiate High School, St. Louis, MO
Philip Riley
President
Christian Brothers College High School
The CBC High School Board of Directors and the Christian Brothers of the Midwest District have been conducting a national presidential search with the assistance of a highly regarded firm specializing in Catholic school leadership searches. Many of you were a part of that process. It is our privilege to announce that the Board and the Christian Brothers have appointed Philip Riley as the next president of CBC, effective July 1, 2024.
About Christian Brothers College High School
Located in Town and Country, MO, Christian Brothers College High School (CBC) is an all-boys, Catholic, Lasallian, college-preparatory high school founded by the Brothers of the Christian Schools in 1850. The Lasallian philosophy of education is guided by five core principles that provide the framework for developing young men who are prepared for tomorrow.
Vice President of Advancement - Cardinal Spellman High School, Bronx, NY
Kevin Brewer
Vice President of Advancement
Cardinal Spellman High School
Kevin Brewer has been announced as the Vice President of Advancement
at Cardinal Spellman High School. Kevin comes from Christian Brothers Foundation where he is the Director of Development.
About Cardinal Spellman High School
Cardinal Spellman High School is the premier, independent, co-educational, college preparatory, Catholic high school in the New York Metropolitan area. Its mission is to promote a culture of aspiration that encourages superior academic performance, leadership, and service. By emphasizing personal development, the school community fosters a commitment to others that empowers its diverse student population to become leaders who make a difference in our community, nation, and world.
President - Junípero Serra High School, San Mateo, CA
Michael Fadelli '88
President
Junípero Serra High School
On behalf of the Archbishop of San Francisco, it is my great pleasure to announce that the new President of Junípero Serra High School will be Michael Fadelli '88. He will assume this new role on July 1. With a wealth of experience in advancement and a deep commitment to the values that define Serra, Mike brings a fresh perspective and boundless enthusiasm to lead Serra into a new era of excellence.
About Junípero Serra High School
Serra is an exceptional Catholic college preparatory high school for boys. In the classroom, on the athletic field, within their clubs and organizations, on the stage or in the community, they teach boys to become responsible, resilient young men and honorable leaders—as they prepare their Padres to successfully navigate the complex world that they will inherit.
Serra is a dynamic community where boys thrive. Their rich and rigorous academic curriculum, wide range of engaging extracurricular activities, and environment of compassion and mutual respect are all hallmarks of Serra. Classmates become brothers, students find a community where they are known and belong, and teachers become role models in an environment that nurtures and challenges students to grow.
President - Mercy Career & Technical High School, Philadelphia, PA
Howie Brown
President
Mercy Career & Technical High School
Howie joins Mercy Tech from St. Joe’s Prep where he has been Admissions Director for the past nine years and a member of their President’s Leadership Team. There, he had first-hand involvement with tuition revenue, financial aid, advancement initiatives, and relationship-building with feeder schools, donors, parents, and students. His diverse background includes work as an actor, theater manager, and an elementary math/science teacher.
Howie will start in his role as Mercy Tech’s President on May 20th. For the remainder of the school year, he will work alongside Sister Susan Walsh, RSM who has been Acting President since the passing of Sister Rosemary Herron, RSM.
About Mercy Career & Technical High School
Founded in 1950 by the Sisters of Mercy, the school has educated thousands of young men and women from Philadelphia neighborhoods and the surrounding suburbs. Mercy Career & Technical High School offers the finest career and technical education and training in an environment that promotes spiritual values, moral development, and service to others.
President - Mount de Sales Academy, Macon, GA
Brendan O'Kane
President
Mount de Sales Academy
Following a national search, the Mount de Sales Academy Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Brendan O’Kane as the new school president effective July 1, 2024. O’Kane will join the Academy from Loyola Blakefield, a private Jesuit Catholic college preparatory school located in Towson, Maryland where he has held leadership positions within campus ministry and student services and currently serves as the director of Ignatian mission and identity. O’Kane has led and advised Ignatian and spiritual formation programs for trustees, parents, students, and faculty and has been responsible for creating and implementing institutional strategic plans. O’Kane received a Bachelor of Arts in sociology, Master of Theological Studies, and Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Loyola University in Baltimore, Maryland.
About Mount de Sales Academy
Founded in 1876 by the Sisters of Mercy, Mount de Sales Academy is the only Catholic, independent, college preparatory school in middle Georgia. Since 2004, Mount de Sales Academy has served students beginning in grade 6 through grade 12. Today, the school enrolls over 500 students with remarkably diverse backgrounds, including 63% non-Catholic families and 45% students of color.
Director of Athletics - Gonzaga College High School, Washington, DC
Terry Kernan ‘08
Director of Athletics
Gonzaga College High School
Following a nationwide search that began early in the fall semester, Gonzaga is proud and pleased to announce Mr. Terry Kernan ‘08 as the school’s next Athletic Director.
Mr. Kernan is an educator by vocation and a model servant leader. He has been serving as Assistant Athletic Director and is also a long-standing member of Gonzaga’s math department. He played both football and basketball at Gonzaga and continued his football playing career at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Mr. Kernan returned to Eye Street full time in 2015 to teach math and coach, before transitioning to the Athletic Department three years ago. He earned his Master’s degree from the University of Scranton in Curriculum and Learning in 2019 and will continue to teach a math course at Gonzaga and serve on the Academic Council, in addition to his Athletic Director responsibilities.
About Gonzaga College High School
Gonzaga College High School is a Catholic college preparatory school for boys operated by the Society of Jesus and its colleagues under the governance of an independent Board of Trustees. Drawing its inspiration from the spiritual vision of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the apostolic and educational tradition of the Jesuits, it offers a values-oriented and academically challenging curriculum to young men of diverse backgrounds from all of the Washington metropolitan area.
Superintendent of Catholic Schools - Archdiocese of San Francisco, CA
Chris Fisher
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Archdiocese of San Francisco
The Archdiocese of San Francisco announced that that Chris Fisher will be the next Superintendent of the Archdiocesan Department of Catholic Schools. Chris will assume the position of Superintendent on July 1, 2024, after completing his role as Executive Director of the Portsmouth Institute for Faith and Culture at Portsmouth Abbey and School, a Benedictine monastery and Catholic boarding school in Rhode Island.
“We are pleased to welcome Chris Fisher to the Archdiocese of San Francisco as our next Superintendent of the Department of Catholic Schools,” said Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone. “He is passionate about guiding students toward truth and virtue, and his experience as a teacher, administrator, and board member has prepared him well to assume this new role.”
About The Archdiocese of San Francisco
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Francisco includes three counties in the beautiful Bay area of northern California: San Francisco, San Mateo, and Marin. The Archdiocese comprises some 442,000 Catholics, with 88 parishes and six missions amid a total population of 2.7 million people. Masses are celebrated in more than 17 languages. The Archdiocese also is home to three retreat houses, eight cemeteries and mausoleums, and two Catholic universities, including St. Patrick’s Seminary & University.
Head of School - Lial Catholic School, Whitehouse, OH
Christian Mocek
Head of School
Lial Catholic School
Following a national search, the Lial Catholic School Board of Trustees recently announced the appointment of Mr. Christian Mocek as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2024.
“Christian Mocek stands out as a leader who will honor and preserve all that Lial has accomplished while also bringing skills and experience that can strengthen us into the future, said Dan Rudski, Board Chairperson. “Throughout the process, Christian showed sensitivity and appreciation for Lial’s unique culture. With his ability and experience in school advancement, we believe he will join our school at the right time as we approach our next fifty years.”
Mocek currently serves as the President of Reitz Memorial High School in Evansville, IN. Under Mocek’s leadership, Memorial finalized and launched the “Igniting the Tradition” Strategic Plan, finalized the school’s first facility master plan in 10 years, experienced three straight years of enrollment growth for the first time in 27 years, and grew the school’s annual fund appreciably. In 2023, Mocek helped facilitate a $1.1 million donation – the largest donation received at the school since 1922 – to replace the aging HVAC system.
About Lial Catholic School
Lial Catholic School is an independent PK-8 Catholic school sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame and governed by an effective Board of Trustees. Nestled as a “little school in the woods” in Toledo’s growing Oak Openings area, Lial Catholic School has twice been named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and is a member of the American Montessori Society.
President - Blessed Trinity Catholic High School, Roswell, GA
Marcos Arias
President
Blessed Trinity Catholic High School
The Partners in Mission School Leadership Search Solutions team is proud to announce that Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in the Archdiocese of Atlanta has selected Marcos Arias as its next President.
Originally from the Atlanta area, Mr. Arias has spent decades in corporate environments as a senior executive leader. He has transformed customer experiences into business success at AT&T, NCR, and others. He is known for having grown businesses, provided organizational leadership, developed go-to-market strategies, and delivered outstanding customer experiences. In addition to managing teams of significant size, budget, and scope, he has provided 14 years of guidance and consultation to support Catholic schools in Atlanta as a member of the Archdiocesan School Advisory Board. Mr. Arias has also provided his expertise as a long-standing member of Catholic Education North Georgia, Inc. to review operations, budgets, and policies of Catholic schools in the region, including working with school budgets, workforce management, real estate, regulatory issues, policy, and development.
Mr. Arias earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering from The Catholic University of America, going on to earn a Master of Science in Management (MBA) from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He also holds a Master’s Certificate in Project Management from George Washington University, in addition to other licenses and certificates. Arias and his wife, Kerry, have two children, ages 20 and 18, both of whom have attended Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in Roswell, GA. He is fully bilingual, loves to volunteer with his church and other charities, is active in soccer, and is a certified wine sommelier.
About Blessed Trinity Catholic High School
Blessed Trinity Catholic High School is one of the three high schools of the
Archdiocese of Atlanta, serving 900 students. Located on a 60-acre campus in Roswell, a northern suburb of Atlanta, Blessed Trinity opened in the fall of 2000 with a pupil enrollment of 219 and graduated its first class in 2003. For over 23 years, Blessed Trinity has provided an exceptional Catholic school education in a nurturing environment, all while transforming lives through Christ.
Principal - St. Brendan the Navigator School, Hillard, OH
Michael DeMassimo
Principal
St. Brendan the Navigator School
Michael DeMassimo will step into the role of Principal at Saint Brendan the Navigator School on June 1, 2024. Mike was appointed with an impressive background as a high school Principal in the Olentangy and Hillard public school systems. He and his wife, Bethany, and their three children are parishioners of St. Brendan. Mike went through an exhaustive interview process and impressed the selection committee with his passion for the parish and school, his extensive experience in education, and the leadership he brings to the position. Mike’s collaborative approach and determination for St. Brendan to excel in faith and academics was evident to all who spoke with him.
About St. Brendan the Navigator School
St. Brendan School is a Catholic parochial elementary/middle school located in suburban Hilliard, Ohio. The school opened in September 1963 with grades 5 through 8. In the following years, additional grades were added. Today, the school houses eighteen classrooms, a cafeteria, a library, a gymnasium, an art room, a music room, and a STEM lab. The school boasts three Kindergarten classes and two classes at each elementary and middle grades level.
President - Holy Cross High School, Dover, DE
Tom Fertal
Inaugural President
Holy Cross High School
For 28 years Mr. Fertal has served as a Catholic school educator, striving to “cultivate a sense of reverence, respect, and responsibility in students,
grounding them in the timeless teachings of the Catholic faith.” He has
served as Principal of Lancaster Catholic High School, President of Cardinal O’Hara High School, and, most recently, President of Saint Mark’s High School in Pike Creek, DE.
For the past five years, Mr. Fertal led a dramatic turnaround of Saint
Mark’s. Through his leadership there has been a resurgence in enrollment
(65% increase), the launch of an $8 million dollar capital campaign, and the creation of several state-of-the art learning environments including a
robotics and engineering lab, low-ropes challenge course, and creative media and broadcast studio. We are pleased that Mr. Fertal has agreed to bring his expertise and love of Catholic education to our community to lead the effort to create Holy Cross High School.
About Holy Cross High School
In fulfilling the calling of the Church and its mission for Catholic education, stakeholders reassessed the need for a Catholic high school located in Kent County to serve Southern Delaware. The region is an underserved area of the Diocese of Wilmington with limited access to Catholic school education and no high schools. The closest Catholic high school in any direction is nearly 50 miles away. Catholic leadership in the community is strong with the passion and entrepreneurial spirit to create Holy Cross High School, a private, independent Catholic high school.
Initial plans call for the school to be located on the campus of Holy Cross School in Dover, and in the original Holy Cross High School building. This new independent, Catholic high school will serve students and families in the growing Kent and Sussex counties of Delaware and Eastern Shore of Maryland. In recent years, the region has grown significantly as more and more people choose its relaxed lifestyle, convenient proximity to urban amenities, rolling rural fields, and pristine beaches.
Superintendent of Schools - Catholic Diocese of Richmond, Richmond, VA
Dr. Michael Riley
Superintendent of Schools
Catholic Diocese of Richmond
Dr. Michael Riley has been appointed by Bishop Barry C. Knestout as Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond. Dr. Riley currently serves as Associate Superintendent of School Operations for the diocese, a role he has held since 2022. He previously served as Principal for Charlottesville Catholic School from 2012-2022. Mike brings 25 years of educational leadership experience in Catholic schools, to include both administrative and teaching roles. He graduated from Barton College with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, and from The College of Willliam and Mary with both a Master of Education and a Doctor of Education in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership. Dr. Riley will begin his new role on July 1, 2024.
About the Catholic Diocese of Richmond
The Catholic Diocese of Richmond, established by Pope Pius VII on July 11, 1820, is among the oldest Catholic dioceses in the nation. Carved from America’s first diocese, Baltimore, the Diocese of Richmond originally encompassed the entire state of Virginia, including what is now West Virginia. In the two centuries that have passed, the geographical boundaries and cultural makeup of the Dioceses have changed.
In 1973, Pope Paul VI established the current borders of the Diocese of Richmond, which now encompasses all the southern part of Virginia. Its present territory covers three-fifths of the state, encompassing 36,000 square miles with over 140 parishes and 23 diocesan schools. A Catholic population of over 220,000 are served by 202 priests, including about 40 retired priests, some of whom are still active in priestly ministry. There are also 40 religious order priests. The Most Reverend Barry Knestout is the 13th bishop of the Diocese of Richmond and was installed in January 2018.
2023 Appointed Leaders
- President - Cardinal Newman High School, West Palm Beach, FL
- Vice President of Advancement - Rochester Catholic Schools, Rochester, MN
- Principal - Christ the King Catholic High School, Huntersville, NC
- Principal - Melbourne Central Catholic High School, Melbourne, Florida
- President - St. Mary Academy - Bay View, Riverside, RI
- President - Our Lady Of Good Counsel High School, Olney, MD
- President - Benilde-St. Margaret's School, St. Louis Park, MN
- Vice Principal - Charlotte Catholic High School, Charlotte, NC
- Principal - Fenwick High School, Oak Park, IL
- President - St. Pius X Catholic High School, Atlanta, GA
- Head of School - St. Pius X High School, Houston, TX
- Principal - St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin, TX
- Director of Annual Fund - Portsmouth Abbey School, Portsmouth, RI
- President - Oakland Catholic High School, Pittsburgh, PA
- Head of School - Saint Thomas More Academy, South Bend, IN
- President - Marist School, Atlanta, GA
- Director of Advancement and Alumnae Engagement - Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Vice President of Advancement - La Salle Academy, Providence, RI
- Executive Director - Dominican Veritas Ministries, Chicago, IL
- Vice President of Advancement - Cotter Schools, Winona, MN
- Director of Catholic School Leadership - Diocese of Cheyenne, Cheyenne, WY
- President (PreK-12th) - Saint Agnes School and Arlington Catholic High School, Arlington, MA
- Principal - Marian High School, Mishawaka, IN
- Principal - Bishop Luers High School, Fort Wayne, IN
- Director of Marketing and Communications - Notre Dame Academy Schools, Los Angeles, CA
- Inaugural President - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School, Myrtle Beach, SC
- President - Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women, Rochester, NY
- Director of Mission Advancement - Diocese of Cheyenne, Cheyenne, WY
President - Cardinal Newman High School, West Palm Beach, FL
Charles S. Stembler
President
Cardinal Newman High School
Following an extensive national search, the Office of Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Palm Beach is pleased to announce that Charles S. Stembler has been appointed by Most Reverend Gerald M. Barbarito, Bishop of Palm Beach, as the next President of Cardinal Newman High School, effective July 1, 2024.
While serving Calvert Hall as an administrator, Mr. Stembler exhibited visionary leadership establishing numerous improvements that created enhanced student experiences and an engaged school community.
Mr. Stembler holds two bachelor’s degrees from Loyola College in Baltimore, one in economics and one in political science, graduating summa cum laude. In addition, he earned a master’s degree in educational administration from Loyola College, also graduating summa cum laude.
About Cardinal Newman High School
Founded in 1961, Cardinal Newman is a premier Catholic college preparatory high school in West Palm Beach, FL. It has a rich tradition of attracting gifted scholars, athletes, and artists who become women and men of character, faith, and intellect. Newman’s coeducational environment encourages students to grow and develop in a safe and communal setting. Each Newman graduate is empowered with the ability to rise to every challenge and overcome every obstacle.
Vice President of Advancement - Rochester Catholic Schools, Rochester, MN
Mindy Reeder
Vice President of Advancement
Rochester Catholic Schools
Mindy has passionately served in Catholic schools for the past 20 years through a variety of roles in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis Catholic schools. Most recently, she held the position of President and Principal for Bethlehem Academy in Faribault, Minnesota. Prior to her 15 years as a school administrator, she served in advancement and development positions with Divine Mercy and Holy Cross Catholic School. In each of these roles, Mindy helped to secure funding, developed relationships with benefactors and led successful school fundraisers.
About Rochester Catholic Schools
Rochester Catholic Schools (RCS) in the Diocese of Rochester-Winona is a body of five Catholic schools, connected by a mission to provide an exceptional education that is rooted in truth and ignited by faith. Through rigorous curriculum, real-world application, and a wide variety of extracurricular choices, RCS is committed to helping its students grow — in mind, in body, and in spirit — through their journey from preschool through grade 12 and beyond.
Principal - Christ the King Catholic High School, Huntersville, NC
Mark Tolcher
Principal
Christ the King Catholic High School
Huntersville, North Carolina
After a national search, Christ the King Catholic High School and the Diocese of Charlotte announced the appointment of Mark Tolcher, a veteran Catholic school administrator, teacher and coach, as the school’s next principal beginning July 1, as part of a transition to a president-principal leadership model. Tolcher brings more than 18 years of Catholic school experience, currently serving as director of enrollment at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in Roswell, Ga., where he also served as associate assistant principal for a year and as a theology instructor from 2017 to 2021.
About Christ the King Catholic High School
Established in 2011 and located on a 100+ acre campus, Christ the King Catholic High School (CTK) provides a rigorous academic, co-educational, college preparatory program in a nurturing environment that celebrates every student for their God-given potential. At CTK, faculty and staff emphasize the learning process to appreciate good questions, if not more than a prescribed answer. The mission of Christ the King Catholic High School is to believe sincerely, think critically, act responsibly, and serve others in the name of Christ the King. The formative educational process aims at preparing students to be effective disciples in the world on the pathway to ultimate salvation.
Principal - Melbourne Central Catholic High School, Melbourne, Florida
Kyle Schmitt
Principal
Melbourne Central Catholic High School
Melbourne, Florida
Melbourne Center Catholic High SChool recently appointed Kyle Schmitt as Principal, effective July 1, 2023. Mr. Schmitt comes to MCC with six years experience as a school administrator, one as Vice - Principal at Most Blessed Trinity Academy in Waukegan, IL, four as Principal at St. Francis de Sales School in Lake Zurich, IL, and most recently as President at Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga, TN.
About Melbourne Central Catholic High School
Melbourne Central Catholic High School is an institution founded in the Franciscan tradition. The Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, New York were instrumental in the early development of MCCHS and actively served as teachers and administrators in the school from 1962-1989. They lived in the love and joy of the Gospel and imaged this love through their actions. The Sisters reflected the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi to the community through their tireless promotion of generosity, humility, inclusivity, and integrity.
President - St. Mary Academy - Bay View, Riverside, RI
Amy Gravell
President
St. Mary Academy - Bay View
Riverside, Rhode Island
On behalf of the St. Mary Academy – Bay View Board of
Trustees and Presidential Search Committee, I write with
great pleasure to announce we have officially selected the
4th president of our Academy, Amy Gravell ('93).
In Amy, we have found the engaging, inspiring leader that
we intended when we began our rigorous search process
eight months ago. She has the vision, leadership
experience, and community connections to move our
Academy successfully into our next great chapter, and I am
thrilled for you to get to know her.
About St. Mary Academy - Bay View
St. Mary Academy - Bay View, founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1874, is an all-girls’ school and is a member institution of the Mercy Education System of the Americas, a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy. Bay View’s campus is located in Riverside, Rhode Island, five miles east of the state Capitol building.
President - Our Lady Of Good Counsel High School, Olney, MD
John Ciccone
President
Our Lady of Good Counsel High School
Olney, Maryland
After an extensive nationwide Head of School search, I write with great pleasure to announce that the Board of Directors has appointed John Ciccone as the 4th president of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School. John was recommended by the Search Committee to the Board of Directors. John was then appointed by unanimous vote. He will succeed Dr. Paul Barker, effective July 1, 2023.
John Ciccone is a seasoned school leader. For the past 14 years, he has served as President at Saint Ignatius Loyola Academy in Baltimore. John’s prior experience was as Chief Administrative Officer at Rochambeau, The French International School in Bethesda and as Head of School at SEED Public Charter School of Washington DC. Across two decades, John has an exceptional record as an educational leader at Catholic, independent, and charter schools, from early childhood through high school levels.
About Our Lady of Good Counsel High School
Our Lady of Good Counsel High School is the largest co-educational Catholic high school in Maryland. Located between Baltimore and Washington D.C., Good Counsel provides a college preparatory education rooted in the Catholic, Christian values of the Xaverian Brothers. Serving the greater Washington metropolitan area for more than 60 years, Good Counsel-–as the school is known-–was founded in 1958 by the Xaverian Brothers as a Catholic high school for boys. After thirty years, the school became co-educational in 1988 and continued to serve an expanding student body at the Wheaton location. Over the decades at the Wheaton campus, enrollment continued to grow, as did the need for a larger, more modern facility. In 2007, the school relocated from Wheaton to its current, cutting-edge campus in Olney.
President - Benilde-St. Margaret's School, St. Louis Park, MN
Danielle Palkert Hermanny
President
Benilde-St. Margaret’s School
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
On behalf of the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Board of Directors, we are pleased to announce the appointment of Danielle Palkert Hermanny ’03 as the new president of Benilde-St. Margaret’s School. The appointment is effective Monday, May 15, 2023.
Danielle’s experience as a strategic educational leader is valuable for leading the BSM community into the future. The Presidential Search Committee was impressed with Danielle’s depth of experience and passion for education. As an alum of Benilde-St. Margaret’s, Danielle understands what it means to be a Red Knight and she is familiar with our shared history of St. Margaret’s Academy, Benilde High School, and Benilde-St. Margaret’s commitment to excellence in Catholic education and our charisms.
About Benilde-St. Margaret's School
Benilde-St. Margaret's School (BSM) is a Catholic, co-educational college-preparatory school serving nearly 1,200 students in grades 7-12. Rooted in the vibrant traditions of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, the Christian Brothers, and the Order of St. Benedict, BSM is uniquely blessed with three charisms that guide how they teach, act, and treat one another. The school develops the whole student through a rigorous curriculum, leading-edge learning experiences, extensive co-curricular opportunities, faith formation, and a robust service-learning program. The school community values its strong and lifelong relationships with parents, alumni, local schools, parishes, religious organizations, and the larger BSM community.
Vice Principal - Charlotte Catholic High School, Charlotte, NC
Lori Phillips
Vice Principal
Charlotte Catholic High School
Charlotte, North Carolina
An education leader of deep faith and conviction, Lori has more than 20 years of experience in public and Catholic schools in Traverse City, Michigan. She currently serves as director of admissions/senior admissions specialist for the Grand Traverse City Catholic Schools. Past roles include principal at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Middle School, principal at Holy Angels Elementary School, and middle school physical education and health teacher in the Kalkaska Public School System in Michigan. She holds a master’s degree in elementary education and a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University.
About Charlotte Catholic High School
Charlotte Catholic High School is a diocesan coeducational college preparatory high school serving more than 1,200 students in grades 9-12. This vibrant school community is an outgrowth of an educational program which began in 1887 at St. Mary’s Seminary, in what is now uptown Charlotte. Charlotte Catholic moved to its new campus in 1995.
Principal - Fenwick High School, Oak Park, IL
Mark Rasar
Principal
Fenwick High School
Oak Park, Illinois
After a thorough process to identify and select a new principal, Fenwick High School announced today the school's new academic leader, Mr. Mark Rasar, who will assume his position on July 1, 2023. Rasar has nearly a decade of educational leadership experience, coupled with previous time spent as a teacher, department chair, and coach. In his past administrative roles, Rasar oversaw curriculum development, capital building projects, and professional growth of faculty and staff members. He holds degrees from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and North Park University and is an active member of the Illinois Principal Association and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD). In 2022, the Illinois Principals Association named Rasar as the North Cook Region-Middle School Principal of the Year award recipient.
About Fenwick High School
Founded in 1929, Fenwick High School is the only school directly operated and staffed by the Catholic Order of Dominican Friars in the United States. Fenwick's school mottoes are the same as those of the Dominican Order: Laudare, Benedicere, Praedicare (praise, bless, preach); Veritas (truth); Contemplare et Contemplata Aliis Tradere (to study and hand on the fruits of study). Inspired by its Dominican Catholic heritage, Fenwick empowers its approximately 1000 students to grow intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, socially, and physically in a disciplined and diverse environment. Fenwick's philosophy of education is based on four domains: the flourishing of the human person, the Catholic theological tradition, the spirituality of the Dominican Order, and the liberal arts.
President - St. Pius X Catholic High School, Atlanta, GA
Aaron Parr
President
St. Pius X Catholic High School
Atlanta, Georgia
It is with great pleasure that I inform you of the selection of the next President of St. Pius X Catholic High School. Archbishop Hartmayer has accepted the recommendation of the interview committee and has appointed Mr. Aaron Parr to the position effective July 1, 2023. Aaron has been Interim President at St. Pius X Catholic High School since June 2022. Preceding his time as Interim President, he held various positions at St. Pius X Catholic High School since May 2022 including Director of Enrollment.
About St. Pius X Catholic High School
St. Pius X Catholic High School opened in 1958 as the first high school in the then newly established Diocese of Atlanta. Today, the school has nearly 1,100 young men and women, more than 130 faculty members - 80 percent of whom have advanced degrees, and nearly 14,000 alumni and benefactors.
Head of School - St. Pius X High School, Houston, TX
John William Bates, V
President
St. Pius X Catholic High School
Houston, Texas
On behalf of the St. Pius Board of Directors and the Board of Trustees of Dominican Sisters of Houston, it is with great pleasure to announce the selection of John William Bates, V as the new Head of School for St. Pius X effective July 1, 2023. John has spent more than 17 years in Catholic education, serving in many roles. Most recently he has shepherded the community of Assumption Catholic School as their School Principal. John's scope of duties, daily responsibilities and long-term strategic impact for Assumption mirror the responsibilities and organization influence as SPX's new Head of School. Prior to that, John served as an assistant principal at St. Michael Catholic School and a teacher at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory.
About St. Pius X High School
Founded in 1956 and sponsored by the Dominican Sisters of Houston, St. Pius X High School is a secondary, co-educational school, enrolling approximately 550 students from over 130 zip codes. Located in a growing suburban neighborhood, the school sits on over 27 acres of land on the north side of Houston, Texas. The school currently operates with a 13-member School Board. Three Dominicans sit on the Dominican Sisters of Houston Board of Trustees holding reserve powers. In addition, there is a 16-member Foundation Board of Trustees.
Principal - St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin, TX
Evan Psencik
Principal
St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School
Austin, Texas
Upon the unanimous recommendation of the Savio Principal Search Committee, including the Superintendent of the Diocese of Austin Catholic Schools, and with approval from Bishop Joe Vasquez, we are pleased to announce that Mr. Evan Psencik will be the next Principal of St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School.
About St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School
St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School is a co-educational college preparatory school founded by the Diocese of Austin to prepare young men and women to become faith-filled, visionary, and inspirational leaders in service to the Catholic Church and the world. Located in a thriving northwest Austin region, Savio provides instructional methods with a 21st-century classroom experience that incorporates cooperative learning and problem-solving approaches, along with innovative technology integrations to enhance learning. Built on an expansive 55-acre campus, the school opened in August 2009 with 86 students. Today, after multiple facility expansions, over 400 students call Savio home.
Director of Annual Fund - Portsmouth Abbey School, Portsmouth, RI
Anita Vigerstol
Director of the Annual Fund
Portsmouth Abbey School
Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Anita previously served as the Director of Advancement at Cataldo Catholic school in Spokane, Washington for fifteen years. Under her leadership, fundraising at Cataldo saw a significant and consistent increase in its fundraising programs year after year. In addition to her expertise in fundraising and constituent relations Anita was responsible for all admissions, marketing, and special events, bringing with her a rich and diverse skillset to Portsmouth Abbey School.
About Portsmouth Abbey School
Founded by the Order of St. Benedict in Portsmouth, Rhode Island with Father Hugh Diman as its first Headmaster and originally called Portsmouth Priory, the school officially opened with 18 students in September of 1926.
Today, Portsmouth Abbey School continues to flourish as the nation's leading coeducational Catholic Benedictine boarding school for 350 students in grades 9 through 12. Unique in its English Benedictine tradition, the school offers a challenging academic curriculum rich in mathematics and science and built upon a signature humanities program.
President - Oakland Catholic High School, Pittsburgh, PA
Kelly Lazzara
President
Oakland Catholic High School
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Bishop David Zubik has appointed the next President of Oakland Catholic High School, Mrs. Kelly Lazzara. Mrs. Lazzara will officially start on July 1, but made an initial visit to OC today to meet with members of the school administration, faculty, staff, students, and board of directors. To read the diocesan press release and a letter from the OCHS Chair of the Board of Directors, please visit President Search on our website.
About Oakland Catholic High School
Oakland Catholic High School is the first and only all-girls diocesan Catholic high school in the Pittsburgh region, serving students from the city of Pittsburgh as well as multiple suburban school districts. Founded in 1989, Oakland Catholic was established upon the closing of St. Paul Cathedral High School and Sacred Heart High School, two parish schools with long histories of educating Pittsburgh’s young women in the Catholic tradition.
Head of School - Saint Thomas More Academy, South Bend, IN
Kevin Powers
Head of School
Saint Thomas More Academy
South Bend, Indiana
We are excited to announce that Saint Thomas More Academy has hired Kevin Powers as our next Head of School. Mr. Powers will begin work at STMA on June 1st, 2023, and we are on-boarding him throughout the next few months to ensure a smooth transition. Mr. Powers is currently the Managing Director of the School Finance and Patrons Program of the Big Shoulders Fund, overseeing 32 schools’ budgets totaling $36 million annually.
About Saint Thomas More Academy
Saint Thomas More Academy, a new classical school in the Catholic tradition in South Bend, Indiana, seeks its next Head of School for the 2023-24 school year. With a distinctive approach to Catholic education in the South Bend area and a generous voucher program, the school has grown from 50 students in K-5 last year to over 150 students through 11th grade this school year. Through the generosity of two downtown Catholic churches, STMA has resurrected the classrooms of the former St. Patrick School to create learning and recreational spaces. The school attends daily Mass each morning in the beautifully restored and historic St. Patrick Catholic Church.
President - Marist School, Atlanta, GA
J.D. Childs
President
Marist School
Atlanta, Georgia
The Society of Mary and the Marist School Board of Trustees are excited to announce the hiring of a new president to succeed Father William Rowland, S.M. as the first lay president in the school’s 122-year history. After an extensive global search, James D. Childs was selected as Marist School’s next president effective July 1, 2023. Originally from South Bend, Indiana, Childs is the current president at Bishop O’Dowd High School in the Diocese of Oakland, California.
About Marist School
Since Marist School’s founding in 1901, the Society of Mary has shared its educational mission with thousands of students and their families in the greater Atlanta area. The school’s mission is to form the whole person in the image of Christ through instruction grounded in religious values, the teachings of the Catholic Church, and the spirit of the Society of Mary. This mission is advanced through communal pursuit of excellence in academic, religious, extracurricular, leadership, and service programs.
Director of Advancement and Alumnae Engagement - Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
Liz Roland
Director of Advancement and Alumnae Engagement
Notre Dame Academy
Los Angeles, California
About Notre Dame Academy
With a proud tradition of providing Catholic education since 1949, the Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles story reflects many throughout the country. Tracing modest beginnings in response to the earlier vision of Reverend Mother Mary Cecilia and call to Sister Mary Bernard to “go out to California and build a house of love,” Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles first opened with the elementary school in 1949 and the high school the following year. Today the high school provides a distinctive and sought-after college-prep opportunity for nearly 260 young women in grades 9-12.
Vice President of Advancement - La Salle Academy, Providence, RI
Ashia Graziano
Vice President of Advancement
La Salle Academy
Providence, Rhode Island
On behalf of the La Salle community, I am pleased to announce that Ashia Mendez Graziano ’01, P ’29 will join our school community as the next Vice President of Institutional Advancement. Ashia has spent the last 14 years as a member of the Brown University Advancement office with experience in the annual fund, class giving, donor relations and major gifts and most recently as the Director of Development for Parent and Family Giving.
About La Salle Academy
Founded in 1871, La Salle’s mission is to educate young men and women in grades 6 through 12 from diverse backgrounds, with a special focus on those from middle-class, working-class, and underserved communities. The La Salle community does this in the tradition of St. John Baptist de La Salle: a man whose ideals of faith, service, and community are honored every day through the La Salle curriculum and culture. The school currently enrolls over 1,400 students from 38 of the 39 communities in Rhode Island, and dozens of others in nearby Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Executive Director - Dominican Veritas Ministries, Chicago, IL
Dr. Kristin Melley
Executive Director
Dominican Veritas Ministries
Chicago, Illinois
The Dominican Veritas Ministries (DVM) member board is delighted to announce the selection of Dr. Kristin Melley as its inaugural Executive Director. For the past two decades, Catholic education has been the precise focus of Dr. Melley’s work. She recently served as the leading advisor in the promulgation and preservation of National Standards & Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Schools (NSBECS) Steering Committee, NCEA NSBECS Council. She also co-created and directed the Two-Way Immersion Network for Catholic Schools (TWIN-CS) at Boston College’s Center for Catholic Education. In this role, she guided strategic and fiscal planning processes for twenty-five schools, developing their governance and academic leadership teams resulting in positive transformations for the schools.
About Dominican Veritas Ministries
In 2018, nine Dominican Congregations (Adrian, Amityville, Caldwell, Houston, Mission San Jose, Peace, Sinsinawa, Springfield, Sparkhill) of women religious, based in the United States began the process of establishing Dominican Veritas Ministries, a Pontifical Public Juridical Person, to serve as the canonical sponsor for their primary and secondary educational ministries. The congregations engaged in study, conversations, and a process to address the current sponsorship realities. There is a strong commitment to ensure the continued Catholic identity and Dominican heritage of these ministries into the future.
Vice President of Advancement - Cotter Schools, Winona, MN
Mike Swenson
Vice President of Advancement
Cotter Schools
Winona, Minnesota
The Cotter Schools community is excited to announce Mr. Mike Swenson as its new Vice President of Advancement. Since 2012, Mike has served as the Executive Director of the Western Technical College Foundation and as the senior fundraising officer for the College, responsible for organizing and managing all fundraising efforts. Working closely with the College President, he serves on the College Senior Leadership Team, participating in management of the institution, including strategic planning, budgeting, policy making, alignment of private support with College initiatives, and decisions to advance overall institutional goals. Prior to that, Mike served Winona State University for over 10 years as a leader in its admissions, major gifts, and alumni relations efforts. Mike earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Master’s in Education in Educational Leadership from Winona State University. In addition, he completed a certification program in Nonprofit Leadership from Viterbo University.
About Cotter Schools
For over 110 years, Cotter Schools has provided students from Winona, Minnesota and across the globe, with a challenging, faith-based, liberal arts education grounded in Catholic faith and values. The main campus is located on the scenic former campus of the College of St. Teresa in the city of Winona, in the Mississippi River valley in southeastern Minnesota. This beautiful, 23-acre campus includes a unique combination of renovated, historic university buildings blended with recently constructed or renovated state-of-the-art academic, athletic, and residential facilities.
Director of Catholic School Leadership - Diocese of Cheyenne, Cheyenne, WY
About Diocese of Cheyenne
On August 2, 1887, Pope Leo XIII established the Diocese of Cheyenne, removing its territory from the Diocese of Omaha. By 1889, the diocese had five priests and 5,000 parishioners spread over a huge area. Today, the Diocese, encompassing the entire state of Wyoming, is led by Bishop Steven R. Biegler and has 63 parishes, 39 priests, 28 deacons, and six Catholic schools.
President (PreK-12th) - Saint Agnes School and Arlington Catholic High School, Arlington, MA
About Saint Agnes School and Arlington Catholic High School
Located in the picturesque town of Arlington, MA, and just minutes north of downtown Boston, this unique Catholic school community has been educating students for over 130 years. Saint Agnes School was established in 1888. In 1960, Arlington Catholic High School was founded and built by the parishioners of St. Agnes Parish. Throughout its long history, the schools have remained committed to teaching the Gospel message of Christ; to building a community of faculty, staff, and students that is characterized by sharing, educating and believing, and to serving through prayer, worship, and social action. Since its inaugural class of 1964, Arlington Catholic has graduated over 9,000 students.
Principal - Marian High School, Mishawaka, IN
Mark Freund
Principal
Marian High School
Mishawaka, Indiana
Mark Freund has been appointed by Most Reverend Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades as the principal of Marian High School, effective July 17. Freund joins the Marian Family from Maryland, having most recently served as Executive Director of the Office for Lasallian Education at Christian Brothers Conference in Washington, DC. He previously served as principal of Saint John Paul II Academy in Boca Raton, FL, and St. Mark’s High School in Wilmington, DE. Mark began his career as a history teacher in Towson, MD.
About Marian High School
Marian High School is a Catholic college preparatory school with a student population of 700 and is located in northern Indiana in the Diocese of Fort Wayne South Bend. The school’s Patroness, Our Lady of Lourdes, guides and teaches as she did for Bernadette in her apparitions, that every life holds value and beauty. The faculty and staff show care for each student while challenging each to reach their greatest potential. They teach students to care for each other and to show that love through service.
Principal - Bishop Luers High School, Fort Wayne, IN
Scott Kreiger
Principal
Bishop Luers High School
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend has appointed Scott Kreiger as the new Principal of Bishop Luers High School in Fort Wayne effective July 17. Kreiger, who served as Assistant Principal at Bishop Luers this past year, will take over for James Huth, who gave notice earlier this year that he will be moving into a new career opportunity. A search committee for Huth’s replacement was formed in February.
About Bishop Luers High School
Bishop Luers High School is owned and operated by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend and is located on the south side of Fort Wayne, Indiana. The school was founded in 1958 by the Franciscan Fathers of Saint John the Baptist and the Sisters of Saint Francis. The first bishop of the diocese, John Henry Luers, is the school’s namesake. Bishop Luers is a proudly diverse school, with just over 500 students hailing from eleven Catholic elementary schools and numerous public schools. Cognia and the state of Indiana accredit Bishop Luers, with the school earning them an “A” status for the past several years.
Director of Marketing and Communications - Notre Dame Academy Schools, Los Angeles, CA
Siobhan O'Neill
Director of Marketing and Communications
Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California
About Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles
With a proud tradition of providing Catholic education since 1949, the Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles story reflects many throughout the country. Tracing modest beginnings in response to the vision of Reverend Mother Mary Cecilia and call to Sister Mary Bernard to “go out to California and build a house of love,” Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles first opened with the elementary school in 1949 and the high school the following year. In the fall of 2005, the school adopted the President/Principal model and established a Board of Trustees and a Board of Members, the latter comprised of Sisters of Notre Dame.
Inaugural President - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School, Myrtle Beach, SC
Michael Barnett
Inaugural President
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
About St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader to become its first President. This is an outstanding opportunity to help shape and transform the educational experience for students, faculty and staff, and families. The school is situated in the popular Carolina Forest region of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, one of the fastest growth regions in the nation.
President - Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women, Rochester, NY
Christina Lacagnina
President
Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women
Rochester, NY
Mercy’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment, and ratification by the Mercy Education Board of Directors, of Christina M. Lacagnina as the new president of Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women. The appointment is effective Thursday, August 17, 2023. Lacagnina comes to OLM from Allendale Columbia where she has served the community since 2017, most recently as the Chief Financial & Operations Officer. Lacagnina earned her Master’s Degree in Business Administration from St. John Fisher College with a focus on Accounting.
About Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women
Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women is a Catholic school for over 650 young women in grades 6-12 offering a college preparatory academic program. The school is a sponsored ministry of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and a member of the Mercy Education System of America. As such, the school is committed to educating young women of all faiths and backgrounds.
Director of Mission Advancement - Diocese of Cheyenne, Cheyenne, WY
About Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women
Encompassing the entire state of Wyoming, the Diocese is led by Bishop Steven R. Biegler, and has 63 parishes, 39 priests, 28 deacons, six Catholic schools, and numerous mission-driven ministries. Learn more about the Diocese here.
2022 Appointed Leaders
- Chief Development Officer - Saint Ignatius College Prep, Chicago, IL
- President - Powers Catholic High School, Flint, MI
- President - Consortium of Catholic Academies (CCA), Washington DC
- Lower School Principal - Our Lady of Grace Catholic School, Edina, MN
- Middle School Principal - Our Lady of Grace Catholic School, Edina, MN
- Head of School - St. Paul VI Catholic High School, Loudoun County, VA
- Assistant Superintendent of Accreditation and Strategic Planning - Diocese of Charleston, Charleston, SC
- Head of School - Our Lady of Grace Catholic School, Edina, MN
- President - St. Francis High School, Sacramento, CA
- President - Father Ryan High School, Nashville, TN
- Head of School - The Cambridge Matignon School, Cambridge, MA
- Prefect of Studies (Principal) - Saint Ignatius College Prep, Chicago, IL
- Head of School - Saint Pius X High School, Albuquerque, NM
- President - St. Anthony High School, Long Beach, CA
- Head of School - Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, Miami, FL
- Director of Advancement - St. Pius X High School, Houston, TX
- Inaugural President - Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, Miami, FL
- Prefect of Mission - Saint Ignatius College Prep, Chicago, IL
- Head of School - St. Edmond’s Academy, Wilmington, DE
- Principal - Cardinal Newman School, Columbia, SC
- President - Junipero Serra High School, Gardena, CA
- Principal - St. Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School, Casper, WY
- Principal - Saint Paul School, Westerville, OH
- Principal - Marist Catholic High School, Eugene, OR
- President - Cristo Rey Orange County High School, Santa Ana, CA
- Principal - DePaul Cristo Rey High School, Cincinnati, OH
- President - Sacred Heart Greenwich, Greenwich, CT
Chief Development Officer - Saint Ignatius College Prep, Chicago, IL
Dr. Jesse Meyer
Chief Development Officer
Saint Ignatius College Prep
Chicago, Illinois
We are pleased to announce that Saint Ignatius College Prep has selected Dr. Jesse Meyer to serve as the school’s Chief Development Officer. Dr. Meyer will begin his new position on September 15, 2022. As a member of the School’s leadership team, Dr. Meyer will manage the school’s Development Department and will provide annual and long-range plans for areas including but not limited to the annual fund, major gifts, alumni relations, planned giving, donor recognition, donor research, and corporate and foundation relations.
About Saint Ignatius College Prep
Saint Ignatius College Prep, a Jesuit Catholic school in the heart of Chicago, is a diverse community dedicated to educating young men and women for lives of faith, love, service and leadership. Through outstanding teaching and personal formation, the school challenges its talented student body to intellectual excellence, integrity, and life-long learning and growth. Inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ, this community strives to use God's gifts to promote social justice for the greater glory of God.
President - Powers Catholic High School, Flint, MI
Timothy Gallic
President
Powers Catholic High School
Flint, Michigan
The Most Reverend Earl Boyea, Bishop of Lansing, has named Mr. Timothy Gallic of Warren, NJ as the new President of Powers Catholic High School, effective October 1, 2022. “I’m honored to be chosen to serve as the next President at Powers Catholic High School and I look forward to upholding and continuing the many great traditions at Powers Catholic," said Mr. Gallic, September 16.
About Powers Catholic High School
Powers Catholic High School is a Roman Catholic, co-educational high school under the direction of the Diocese of Lansing. Its state-of-the-art campus is located on 57 acres in Flint, Michigan. Powers Catholic serves a diverse student population of more than 600 male and female students in grades 9-12 that come from 65 different middle schools and elementary schools in the region. For over 50 years, Powers Catholic has been committed to passing on the faith in an environment of academic excellence and graduating students who are spiritually prepared to impact the world for Christ. It is home to thousands of alumni who today serve their communities as leaders, innovators and servants to the Catholic faith and teachings of Jesus Christ.
President - Consortium of Catholic Academies (CCA), Washington DC
Dr. Camille Brown-Privette
President
Consortium of Catholic Academies
Washington D.C.
We’re delighted to announce that Dr. Camille Brown Privette will be the next President of the Consortium of Catholic Academies (CCA). A lifelong leader in Catholic education, Dr. Brown Privette has an outstanding record of accomplishments addressing the needs of students, families, teachers and administrators in urban environments. She is an energetic and compassionate educator, uniquely qualified to lead the CCA.
About Consortium of Catholic Academies
In 1997, the Archdiocese of Washington, DC formed the Consortium of Catholic Academies (CCA) as a collection of four urban Catholic K-8 schools with a central office to oversee financial and administrative needs. Each of these four schools is distinct and represent safe havens for children living in difficult neighborhoods and challenging economic situations. Inside the doors of each school, students and their families are members of a loving and supportive community bound together by a community, faith, and respect. On a broader level, the presence of the Consortium schools in these neighborhoods reinforces the concept of school as an essential component of a community.
Lower School Principal - Our Lady of Grace Catholic School, Edina, MN
Julie Moran
Lower School Principal
Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
Edina, Minnesota
In July 2022, Fr. Kevin Finnegan and the Our Lady of Grace Catholic Parish and School community welcomed Mrs. Julie Moran as its new Lower School Principal and member of its new leadership team. Julie comes to OLG from St. Hubert Catholic School where she was the Elementary School Director. Prior to that position, Julie served at Shakopee Area Catholic Schools as Principal from 2015-2021 and as Director of Curriculum & Gifted/Talented Program from 2011-2015. Julie also brings fourteen years of elementary school teaching experience, twelve in Catholic grade schools, to her new position at Our Lady of Grace. Julie earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and Human Development from South Dakota State University, Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction and Master of Education in School Leadership from St. Thomas University.
About Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
Located in Edina, MN, the Our Lady of Grace Parish (founded 1946) and School community (founded 1949) have been blessed with continued growth. Today, there are more than 2,570 parish families and over 670 students enrolled in OLG. The significant growth of the facilities has resulted in a corresponding growth in the faith formation and education programs. This Fall, OLG will open its impressive $28M addition, a state-of-the-art Activity Center, which includes a performing arts stage, new full-size gym, lobby reception area, innovative learning spaces and classrooms, new cafeteria, professional grade kitchen, and the highly anticipated preschool program for 120 Little Saints and Young Scholars
Middle School Principal - Our Lady of Grace Catholic School, Edina, MN
Jim Dahlman
Middle School Principal
Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
Edina, Minnesota
In July 2022, Fr. Kevin Finnegan and the Our Lady of Grace Catholic Parish and School community welcomed Mr. Jim Dahlman as its new Middle School Principal and member of its new leadership team. Jim comes to OLG from Totino Grace High School where he was a Chemistry and Physics Teacher for fifteen years, the Science Department Chair for five years, and the Totino Grace Connect Program Director since 2017. He also worked with St. Odilia Catholic School during his principal licensure certification. Jim earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from St. John’s University, Master of Arts in Lasallian Leadership from St. Mary’s University, and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Administration from Concordia University.
About Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
Located in Edina, MN, the Our Lady of Grace Parish (founded 1946) and School community (founded 1949) have been blessed with continued growth. Today, there are more than 2,570 parish families and over 670 students enrolled in OLG. The significant growth of the facilities has resulted in a corresponding growth in the faith formation and education programs. This Fall, OLG will open its impressive $28M addition, a state-of-the-art Activity Center, which includes a performing arts stage, new full-size gym, lobby reception area, innovative learning spaces and classrooms, new cafeteria, professional grade kitchen, and the highly anticipated preschool program for 120 Little Saints and Young Scholars
Head of School - St. Paul VI Catholic High School, Loudoun County, VA
Laura Swenson
Head of School
St. Paul VI High School
Chantilly, Virginia
Following an extensive national search and the recommendation of a search committee, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge has appointed Laura Swenson as the new Head of School for St. Paul VI Catholic High School. Mrs. Swenson assumed the position on July 1, 2022. Mrs. Swenson began her career as an intelligence analyst before moving into the education field 26 years ago. She has served in a variety of roles in Connecticut and Tennessee over the course of her career, including as a teacher, consultant, instructional coach and advisor, and school administrator. Most recently she has served as academic dean, then principal at Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga, Tenn., where she helped guide the school community through the challenges presented by the COVID pandemic.
About Saint Paul VI Catholic High School
In September 2020, the Saint Paul VI Catholic High School (PVI) community opened its brand new 68-acre campus in Loudoun County, Virginia. From its humble beginnings in 1983 with 350 students and 21 employees in nearby Fairfax, the mission of PVI continues to grow and prosper. Today, nearly 1,100 young men and women call this expansive, state-of-the-art, $78M Chantilly campus home.
Assistant Superintendent of Accreditation and Strategic Planning - Diocese of Charleston, Charleston, SC
Shaileen Riginos
Diocese of Charleston
Assistant Superintendent of Accreditation and Strategic Planning
Charleston, South Carolina
We are pleased to announce that Shaileen Riginos has been appointed as the assistant superintendent of Accreditation and Strategic Planning. Shaileen is most recently from St. Anne School in Rock Hill where she has served as principal since 2013. Since 2020, Shaileen has also assisted the Catholic Schools Office as academic coordinator for the Diocese of Charleston. She has taught in schools for over 20 years, holding a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, both from Stetson University.
About Diocese of Charleston
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston comprises the entire state of South Carolina, with Charleston as its See city. Founded in 1820, it is one of the oldest Catholic dioceses in the United States. The diocese consists of 95 parishes and 20 mission and ministry initiatives throughout the state. At the time of writing, the diocese is currently led by the Most Rev. Robert Guglielmone, who served as the thirteenth Bishop of Charleston until his retirement. On February 22, 2022, Pope Francis appointed Father Jacques Fabre as the new bishop effective upon his Mass of Ordination and Installation scheduled for May 13, 2022.
Head of School - Our Lady of Grace Catholic School, Edina, MN
Mike McGinty
Head of School
Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
Edina, Minnesota
Mike McGinty is a native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and is currently the Associate Director for Catholic School Operations at the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. He joins Our Lady of Grace with an impressive span of 17 years as a Catholic school leader in both the elementary and high school levels. He has held leadership roles as both assistant principal and principal. He has also served as vice president and director of advancement. More recently, Mike has worked for the Archdiocesan Office for the Mission of Catholic Education providing leadership and mentorship to pastors and school leaders. He also brings over 20 years of corporate and professional experience from the fields of finance, sales, application development, and management. Mr. McGinty holds a B.A. in Speech Communications from the University of Minnesota as well as a Masters of Education Administration and Principal Licensure from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota.
About Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
Located in Edina, MN, the Our Lady of Grace Parish (founded 1946) and School community (founded 1949) have been blessed with continued growth. Today, there are more than 2,570 parish families and over 670 students enrolled in OLG. The significant growth of the facilities has resulted in a corresponding growth in the faith formation and education programs. This fall, OLG will open its impressive $28M addition, a state-of-the-art Activity Center, which includes a performing arts stage, new full-size gym, lobby reception area, innovative learning spaces and classrooms, new cafeteria, professional grade kitchen, and the highly anticipated preschool program for 120 Little Saints and Young Scholars.
President - St. Francis High School, Sacramento, CA
Dr. Fadia Desmond
St. Francis High School
President
Sacramento, California
St. Francis Catholic High School is proud to announce and welcome Dr. Fadia Desmond as its new president and CEO. Desmond, who previously served at St. Francis as assistant principal from 2015-2018, and has spent the last four years at Jesuit High School in the same role, will assume her new post in July. We are thrilled to welcome her home. Dr. Desmond is a shining example of the benefits of an all-girls, Catholic school environment. She has a Ph.D. in Education from UC Davis, a Master’s from Stanford, received her Bachelor’s from UCLA, and is a graduate of Marymount High School, Los Angeles.
About St. Francis High School
St. Francis High School is a four-year, all-female college preparatory school founded in 1940. It is the largest all-girls Catholic school west of the Mississippi. As the only Catholic high school in Sacramento affiliated with the Diocese of Sacramento, the students come to St. Francis from more than 100 area schools and five counties. The school provides a full range of athletics, fine and performing arts, numerous on-campus clubs, and encourages the education of the whole person by facilitating high academic standards. In most years since its founding, 100% of graduates attend college with 90% choosing four-year institutions.
President - Father Ryan High School, Nashville, TN
Paul Davis
Father Ryan High School
President
Nashville, Tennessee
Father Ryan High School Principal Paul Davis '81 has been selected as the school’s new president, according to Bill Stejskal '79, chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Davis will become the 15th head of school in Father Ryan’s 98-year history when he begins as president on July 1, 2022. He has served as principal since 2007.
About Father Ryan High School
Father Ryan High School’s long and celebrated history of providing quality Catholic education to the Nashville community began in 1925. Father Ryan seeks to be a superior co-ed Catholic high school, providing excellence in religious and moral formation, academics, athletics, and the arts while remaining accessible to those seeking an education in the Catholic Tradition. The school provides an educational experience customized to each of their 850+ students across four learning levels and 200 academic course offerings. The mission of Father Ryan is to be an experience of the living Gospel while challenging students to reach their spiritual, intellectual, and personal potential. The school is well-positioned, with dedicated faculty and staff, balanced fiscal management, a robust alumnae group, and attractive campus.
Head of School - The Cambridge Matignon School, Cambridge, MA
Dr. Paul Manuel
Head of School
Cambridge Matignon School
Cambridge, Massachusetts
The Board of Trustees is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Paul Manuel as The Cambridge Matignon School’s next Head of School. After an extensive national search conducted by Partners in Mission, Dr. Manuel was chosen from an impressive pool of candidates. Dr. Manuel will begin his tenure on July 1, 2022. Dr. Manuel comes to The Cambridge Matignon School from the School of Public Affairs at American University in Washington, DC, where he has served as the leadership program director for the past eight years.
About The Cambridge Matignon School
Founded by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston in 1947, The Cambridge Matignon School offers a world-class experiential education for high school students across Greater Boston. The school instills in each student the lifelong agency to defend equity and equality above all, opening wide their minds and hearts to transform themselves and their communities. In so doing, the school embraces its motto, Efficiamur Christiferi. (“Let Us Be Christ Bearers. We will, because We Must.”)
Prefect of Studies (Principal) - Saint Ignatius College Prep, Chicago, IL
Dr. Sterling Brown
Prefect of Studies
Saint Ignatius College Prep
Chicago, Illinois
We are pleased to announce that Saint Ignatius College Prep has selected Dr. Sterling J. Brown to serve as the school’s Prefect of Studies (Principal). Dr. Brown will begin this new position on July 1, 2022. Dr. Brown will build a vision for curriculum around what it means to be a Jesuit college preparatory school in the 21st century. He will also develop strategies for leading and initiating comprehensive planning for the recruitment, assessment, compensation, and professional growth of faculty. Dr. Brown will work to strengthen curricular offerings and explore new structural models. Dr. Brown currently serves as the Dean of Students at Creighton Preparatory School in Omaha, Nebraska. Prior to that, he was the Assistant Dean of Students and the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at St. Louis University High School in St. Louis, Missouri.
About Saint Ignatius College Prep
Saint Ignatius College Prep, a Jesuit Catholic school in the heart of Chicago, is a diverse community dedicated to educating young men and women for lives of faith, love, service and leadership. Through outstanding teaching and personal formation, the school challenges its talented student body to intellectual excellence, integrity, and life-long learning and growth. Inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ, this community strives to use God's gifts to promote social justice for the greater glory of God.
Head of School - Saint Pius X High School, Albuquerque, NM
Michael Deely
Head of School
St. Pius X High School
Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Board of Trustees and the Members of Saint Pius X High School Inc. announce the hiring of a new Head of School, Michael Deely, who will assume leadership of the SPX campus on July 1, 2022. He brings an extensive background in Catholic education to St. Pius, beginning as a teacher, campus minister and coach at University San Diego High School from 1994 to 2001. In 2001, he began his leadership career as principal of St Charles Borromeo Academy and in 2006 moved to Cathedral Catholic High School, a school with a population of 1700 students in the Diocese of San Diego. He led Cathedral for nine years, during which time the school earned the title of Apple Distinguished School for innovation and initiated students’ dual enrollment with UCSD, San Diego Mesa College and Point Loma Nazarene University.
About Saint Pius X High School
Founded in 1956, Saint Pius X High School is the only Catholic high school in Albuquerque. The school is located on the city’s west side, on the campus that was formerly the location of the University of Albuquerque. Saint Pius X is a co-educational institution that serves approximately 500 students in grades nine through twelve. The school is a vibrant, faith-filled, Catholic community with rich traditions. Directed by dedicated faculty and staff, Saint Pius X challenges students in all academic and extracurricular programs. As a college preparatory school, Saint Pius X develops intellectual skills that prepare its students for success in college and life.
President - St. Anthony High School, Long Beach, CA
Christine Tucker
President
St. Anthony High School
Long Beach, California
Christine Tucker began her service to St. Anthony High School when former President Gina Maguire ’67 invited her to support St. Anthony as a community outreach volunteer and development associate. In subsequent years she enrolled her son in SAHS and served as an active fundraiser and event planner for football and baseball programs and a member or the Parent/Educator Program (PEP). After her son graduated, she remained engaged in the community as a member and ultimately vice chairperson of the SAHS Consultative School Board.
About St. Anthony High School
Founded in 1920, St. Anthony High School is a four-year Catholic, college preparatory, co-educational high school located in Long Beach, California, near the heart of downtown within the city’s vibrant Arts District. The school currently enrolls nearly 450 students. St. Anthony High School is a faith-based community where students experience an environment that is nurturing and academically challenging. The school’s rigorous academic curriculum centers on Project-Based Learning that helps prepare young men and women for college, career, and most importantly, heaven. Small class sizes allow highly qualified faculty to personalize lessons that meet the needs of diverse styles of learners.
Head of School - Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, Miami, FL
Heather Gillingham-Rivas
Head of School
Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart
Miami, Florida
The Board of Trustees is excited to announce that our new Head of School will be Heather Gillingham-Rivas and our inaugural President will be Patrick Coyle. We are confident that Heather and Patrick will work well together for the success of Carrollton now and in the future. Heather is an alumna of Carrollton (’94), Harvard University (A.B. cum laude, ’98), and Barry University (M.S., ’09) and is a Carrollton parent (’22). She has 7 years of experience as a high school teacher, and for the past 16 years, has been Carrollton’s Intermediate School Head. Additionally, Heather was appointed by the Provincial of the Society of the Sacred Heart United States Canada Province to serve for six years on the Sacred Heart Commission on Goals, which oversees the twenty-five Network schools for adherence to the Goals and Criteria.
About Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart
Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic Independent School sponsored by the Society of the Sacred Heart. Founded in 1961, Carrollton is the only all-girls school educating Montessori-3 through Grade 12 in Florida. Located in Coconut Grove, Florida, it is part of a worldwide network of over 150 schools in forty-one countries, with 25 schools in the United States.
Director of Advancement - St. Pius X High School, Houston, TX
Tara Wuthrich
Director of Advancement
St. Pius X High School
Houston, Texas
St. Pius X High School is pleased to welcome Tara Wuthrich as its new Director of Advancement. Tara offers the St. Pius X community a robust skillset and over thirty years of experience in the fields of advancement and donor relations. A Houston native, Tara earned her B.S. at the University of Texas at Austin and completed additional courses in fundraising at Dartmouth College and Rice University. Her impressive employment history includes the M.D. Anderson Medical Center, the Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation, the Ronald McDonald House, and most recently The Regis School of the Sacred Heart.
About St. Pius X High School
Founded in 1956 and sponsored by the Dominican Sisters of Houston, St. Pius X High School is a secondary, co-educational school, enrolling nearly 550 students from over 130 zip codes. Located in a growing suburban neighborhood, the school sits on over 25 acres on the north side of Houston, Texas. The school operates with a 15-member School Board. Three Dominicans sit on the Dominican Sisters of Houston Board of Trustees holding reserve powers. In addition, there is a 16-member Foundation Board of Trustees.
Inaugural President - Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, Miami, FL
Patrick Coyle
President
Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart
Miami, Florida
The Board of Trustees is excited to announce that our new Head of School will be Heather Gillingham-Rivas and our inaugural President will be Patrick Coyle. We are confident that Heather and Patrick will work well together for the success of Carrollton now and in the future. Patrick is an alumnus of Georgetown Preparatory School in North Bethesda, Maryland (’03) and Dickinson College (B.A., ’07). Patrick comes to us from Lake Forest Academy in Illinois, where he has been serving as Chief Communication Officer. Prior to LFA, Patrick was the Director of Marketing & Communications and Chief of Staff at Georgetown Prep for over 8 years and served in many unofficial and interim roles, including de facto co-president and Acting Director of Development, during times of other leaders’ absences. He has extensive experience in strategic planning, capital campaigns, crisis communication, social media marketing, and alumni relations. Before Georgetown Prep, he served as Director of Marketing at a hospitality-focused private equity and investment firm based in Washington, D.C.
About Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart
Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic Independent School sponsored by the Society of the Sacred Heart. Founded in 1961, Carrollton is the only all-girls school educating Montessori-3 through Grade 12 in Florida. Located in Coconut Grove, Florida, it is part of a worldwide network of over 150 schools in forty-one countries, with 25 schools in the United States.
Prefect of Mission - Saint Ignatius College Prep, Chicago, IL
Dr. Geoffrey Miller
Prefect of Mission
Saint Ignatius College Prep
Chicago, Illinois
We are pleased to announce that Saint Ignatius College Prep has selected Dr. Geoffrey D. Miller to serves as the school’s Prefect of Mission. Dr. Miller will begin this new position on July 1, 2022. In this role, Dr. Miller will provide leadership and supervision for the following areas: the Office of Formation and Ministry, the Student Deans, Athletics, Student Activities and the Office of School Culture. He will also lead a rigorous talent development system, oversee the faith and formation curriculum and serve as the primary coordinator for all aspects of spiritual formation for the school, amongst other duties. Dr. Miller is currently a religion teacher at Gonzaga College High School in Washington, DC. Prior to that, he was the Provincial Assistant for Secondary & Pre-Secondary Education for the Society of Jesus, UCS Province (St. Louis, MO). Additionally, he served at a number of Jesuit high schools and taught for seven years at Saint Louis University.
About Saint Ignatius College Prep
Saint Ignatius College Prep, a Jesuit Catholic school in the heart of Chicago, is a diverse community dedicated to educating young men and women for lives of faith, love, service and leadership. Through outstanding teaching and personal formation, the school challenges its talented student body to intellectual excellence, integrity, and life-long learning and growth. Inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ, this community strives to use God's gifts to promote social justice for the greater glory of God.
Head of School - St. Edmond’s Academy, Wilmington, DE
Domenic Maiorano
Head of School
Saint Edmond's Academy
Wilmington, Delaware
Through our rigorous nationwide search process, spearheaded by Partners in Mission School Leadership Search Solutions, we are delighted to share that our extensive process has led us close to home, to an extremely well-qualified and talented St. Edmonds’ alumnus. So, with the unanimous recommendations of the Search Committee, Board of Directors, and our Corporate Board, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Domenic Maiorano ‘97 as our next Head of School. Domenic Maiorano will serve as the Chief Executive Officer and designated spokesperson and representative for the Academy. In collaboration with the Administrators and the Board of Directors, he will set the spirit and tone of the Academy, striving to maintain the legacy of a strong Christian atmosphere based on the teachings of the Catholic Church and the vision and values of the Brothers of Holy Cross. Mr. Maiorano will serve as the public face of our school community, and focus on leading our marketing, enrollment management, and advancement efforts in support of our exciting years ahead.
About St. Edmond’s Academy
In the Holy Cross tradition, St. Edmond’s Academy is an independent Catholic school for boys from early childhood through 8th Grade. With a current enrollment of nearly 200 students, it has served the families of the greater Wilmington, Delaware region since the Brothers of Holy Cross were invited to sponsor and administer Saint Edmond’s Academy in 1959. It is one of just twenty Holy Cross Catholic Schools in the U.S. and boasts over 2200 alumni.
Principal - Cardinal Newman School, Columbia, SC
Kelly Burke
Principal
Cardinal Newman School
Columbia, South Carolina
Ms. Kelly Burke has been appointed to serve as the next Principal of Cardinal Newman School. With counsel provided by Partners in Mission School Leadership Search Solutions, Kelly emerged as the top candidate following our extensive nationwide search that produced a diverse and competitive pool of highly qualified candidates from across the country. A native of Savannah, Georgia, Ms. Burke will be joining us from the Archdiocese of New York where she served both St. Stephen of Hungary School and Sacred Heart of Jesus School as a transformational Principal by consistently achieving top Student Growth Index Scores within the Archdiocese. Ms. Burke brings nearly 30 years of additional experience in leading both Catholic and independent schools in Atlanta and Savannah, including 15 years at Benedictine Military School as its Director of Development and Principal. Kelly holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance and Education from Columbus State University, a Master of Music and Education from The University of Tulsa and has completed post-graduate work in securing her Educational Leadership Certification from Eastern New Mexico University.
About Cardinal Newman School
Cardinal Newman School is a diocesan coeducational institution providing a well-rounded education in a college preparatory environment for nearly 500 students in grades seven through twelve. Originally founded in 1858 by the Ursuline sisters, Cardinal Newman opened on the parish grounds of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Columbia as both Ursuline and Catholic High Schools respectively until moving to Forest Drive in 1961, where it remained until December 2015. In January 2016, Cardinal Newman relocated to its state-of-the-art, 76-acre campus in the northeast suburbs of Columbia
President - Junipero Serra High School, Gardena, CA
John Moran
President
Junipero Serra High School
Gardena, California
Dr. John Moran has been appointed as President of Junipero Serra High School beginning May 1, 2022. Dr. Moran’s extensive educational experience includes serving as principal and superintendent of Catholic and Christian high schools as well as leadership in post-secondary education. Dr. Moran earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Massachusetts and Master of Education from Harvard University. He received his Doctor of Education from USC after completing a dissertation based on his research of African American parent perspectives on special education.
About Junipero Serra High School
Founded in 1950 and located in Gardena, California, Junipero Serra High School is a co-educational, four-year, Catholic college preparatory school in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Current enrollment is just over 375 students. The school serves Gardena and surrounding communities, including Carson, Compton, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lennox, South Central Los Angeles, and Torrance
Principal - St. Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School, Casper, WY
Dr. Melissa Whelan
Principal
St. Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School
Casper, Wyoming
Through our rigorous nationwide search for our new leader, with retained search counsel provided by Partners in Mission School Leadership Search Solutions, we are delighted to share that the search process has now concluded. On behalf of the Search Committee and School Board and with its unanimous support, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Melissa Whelan as our next Principal. The Search Committee agreed that Dr. Whelan is a strong, humble, Christ-centered leader with extensive Catholic education experience who will passionately and strategically advance the mission and vision of St. Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School. Dr. Whelan is completing her 28th year serving Catholic school communities as a teacher, dean, and twice as a PreK-8 elementary and middle school Principal. Dr. Whelan currently serves on the executive leadership team and member of the founding faculty at Trinity Hall, an all-girls high school in the Catholic tradition located in New Jersey.
About St. Anthony Catholic School
Located in Casper, Wyoming, St. Anthony Catholic School was dedicated in 1927 in the belief that education is one of the most important ways that the Catholic Church fulfills its commitment to bring about the kingdom of God. Today, St. Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School is home to 210 students in grades PreK3-8. Students are exposed to a robust and challenging curriculum in Math, Science, English, History, Reading, Religion, Spanish, PE, Music, and the Arts. Students consistently excel in all academic areas, surpassing their counterparts on national levels and graduating in the top 10% of their high school class.
Principal - Saint Paul School, Westerville, OH
Andrea Pore
Principal
Saint Paul School
Westerville, Ohio
Ms. Pore holds a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with concentrations in Theology, Psychology, and Sociology from the University of Dayton. She earned her Master of Arts in Theology from Ohio Dominican University and a second Master of Arts in Educational Administration from The Ohio State University. Ms. Pore is passionate about Catholic Education with a firm belief in educating the whole person; mind, body, and spirit while forming disciples of Jesus Christ. She is excited to join our St. Paul community as we continue to be Inspired by St. Paul – Centered on Christ – Called to Holiness.
About Saint Paul School
Founded in 1961, the school opened with all eight grade levels and 218 students enrolled that very first year. Since then, Saint Paul has grown considerably. In 2007, St. Paul purchased ten acres on Moss Rd. near the school to replace the old athletic fields needed for parking for the new church. The Parish Athletic Association (PAA) raised over $300,000 to develop the land, create the athletic complex, and build a concession stand. The fields accommodate parish football, baseball, and softball games as well as lacrosse practice.
Principal - Marist Catholic High School, Eugene, OR
Bob Fraley
Principal
Marist Catholic High School
Eugene, Oregon
About Marist Catholic High School
Located in Eugene, Oregon, Marist Catholic High School opened its doors in 1968 on a 30-acre campus along the banks of the Willamette River. In 2015, the school adopted the President/Principal leadership model, and is now seeking its second Principal under this model. This is an outstanding opportunity to help shape the educational experience for students, faculty and staff, and families at a premier Catholic secondary school in the Archdiocese of Portland.
President - Cristo Rey Orange County High School, Santa Ana, CA
Stephen Holte
Founding President
Cristo Rey Orange County High School
Santa Ana, California
Mr. Stephen Holte, founding President, Cristo Rey Orange County High School, has spent the past 15 years in Catholic education serving organizations committed to being engines of opportunity for students from under-resourced communities. Throughout his career, Mr. Holte has built a reputation as a mission-driven leader focused on providing educational access to students of limited means and empowering them to succeed beyond their wildest dreams.
About Cristo Rey Orange County High School
Cristo Rey Orange County High School will be located on the former campus of a Catholic grade school in Santa Ana, California, and will be part of the national Cristo Rey Network. Member schools use a rigorous academic model, supported by best practices in instruction and assessment, to prepare students from limited economic means for college and life. Further, Cristo Rey Network schools employ an innovative Corporate-Work Study Program that provides students with real world work experiences. In this highly unique model, every Cristo Rey student works an average of five days a month to fund the majority of her or his schooling, gain job experience, grow in self-confidence, and realize the relevance of this education. Students work in various corporate and business settings including law firms, banks, hospitals, universities, and with other professional organizations.
Principal - DePaul Cristo Rey High School, Cincinnati, OH
James Schurrer
Principal
DePaul Cristo Rey High School
Cincinnati, Ohio
James Schurrer has been named principal of DePaul Cristo Rey. Mr. Schurrer has held roles as Dean of Faculty, an English teacher, and a coach at Cincinnati’s St. Xavier High School. He has worked at St. Xavier since 2012 and prior to that he was a teacher and administrator at schools in Toledo and Springfield, Ohio. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from Ohio University and master’s degrees in American Culture Studies and Education Leadership and Supervision from Bowling Green State University.
About DePaul Cristo Rey High School
Located in the quaint university neighborhood of Clifton of Cincinnati, DePaul Cristo Rey High School opened its doors in June 2011 as the 25th Cristo Rey model high school in the country. Named after St. Vincent de Paul, the school is sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati with an innovative work-study model that serves students from limited financial means families who could not otherwise afford a college preparatory education. The school seeks its next Principal, who reports to the school’s President and will be responsible for shaping the academic experience for students, faculty and staff, and families.
President - Sacred Heart Greenwich, Greenwich, CT
Michael F. Baber
Inaugural President
Sacred Heart Greenwich
Greenwich, Connecticut
We are pleased to announce that the Board has voted unanimously to appoint Michael F. Baber as the inaugural President of Sacred Heart Greenwich. Michael has dedicated his career to education and the last 20 years to Sacred Heart education in particular. His deep commitment to Sacred Heart's mission is palpable, and the Board is excited by the range and depth of Michael's leadership experience in areas that are essential to our vision for the future, including philanthropy, community and stakeholder engagement, admissions, and financial aid. Michael has served as Head of School at the Network's Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School in St. Louis, Missouri since 2016.
About Sacred Heart Greenwich
Located on a beautiful 110-acre hilltop campus in Greenwich, Connecticut, Sacred Heart Greenwich is an all-girls, Catholic, independent college preparatory day school. Sacred Heart Greenwich provides a challenging, empowering, and inclusive learning environment for girls and young women from kindergarten through twelfth grade to prepare them to become confident, intelligent, and compassionate global leaders. The school offers a coed program for young children at the Barat Center for Early Childhood Education.
2021 and Previous
- President - St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School and Holy Family Catholic School, Austin, TX
- Senior High Principal - Benilde-St. Margaret’s School, St. Louis Park, MN
- Director of Advancement - Academy of the Holy Names, Tampa, FL
- Head of School - Berks Catholic High School, Reading, PA
- Head of School - St. Anthony Schools, Wailuku-Maui, HI
- Principal - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School, Myrtle Beach, SC
- President - Lafayette Catholic School System, Lafayette, IN
- Cabinet Secretary of Education and Superintendent of Schools - Archdiocese of Miami, FL
- President - Helias Catholic High School, Jefferson City, MO
- Principal - Helias Catholic High School, Jefferson City, MO
- Principal - Bishop Amat Memorial High School, La Puente, CA
- Head of School - Marian Catholic High School, Tamaqua, PA
- Head of School - Shrine Catholic Schools, Royal Oak, MI
- President - St. Francis Borgia High School, Washington, MO
- Secretary for Catholic Schools/Superintendent - Archdiocese of Washington, Washington, D.C.
- 2019 and Earlier
President - St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School and Holy Family Catholic School, Austin, TX
Tim Cullen
President
St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School and Holy Family Catholic School
Austin, TX
Tim Cullen has been selected as the new President of St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School and Holy Family Catholic School. A product of Catholic schools, Tim began his career as a Special Education teacher before moving on to County Administrator and District Administrator roles at schools in Ohio. He later became Superintendent of K-12 Bishop Hoffman Catholic School in Fremont, Ohio before taking on the Head of School position at K-12 St. Anthony School in Maui, Hawaii. Tim earned his Bachelor’s in Education from Bowling Green State University and his Master’s in School Administration from Azusa Pacific University. He brings with him a background as a collaborative leader who successfully merged organizational cultures and built strong constituent relationships that enabled school communities to be successful and flourish.
Senior High Principal - Benilde-St. Margaret’s School, St. Louis Park, MN
Stephanie Nitchals
Senior High Principal
Benilde-St. Margaret’s School
St. Louis Park, MN
Dr. Adam Ehrmantraut recently announced the appointment of Stephanie Nitchals as BSM’s next Senior High School Principal. Assisted by a representative search committee, all agreed that Stephanie is a strong, humble, Christ-centered leader with extensive executive experience who will passionately and strategically advance the mission and vision of Benilde-St. Margaret’s. Stephanie has served as an English teacher, Diversity Coordinator, Guidance Counselor, Dean of Academics, High School Principal, and Head of School serving in three different Catholic schools over 18 years.
Director of Advancement - Academy of the Holy Names, Tampa, FL
Molly Smith
Director of Advancement
Academy of the Holy Names
Tampa, FL
We are thrilled to announce that Molly Smith ‘88 P’23 will join the Academy of the Holy Names as its next Director of Advancement. Molly emerged as the top candidate following an extensive nationwide search that produced a diverse and competitive pool of highly qualified candidates. Molly has served on the Board of Trustees at St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School, including as chairperson from 2011-2014, before moving on to Jesuit High School as the school’s annual fund director. In that role, Molly grew Jesuit’s annual giving program 65% to $1.8 million. Additionally, Molly’s creative endeavors with young alums resulted in an average increase of ten new donors per month.
Head of School - Berks Catholic High School, Reading, PA
Bill Hess
Head of School
Berks Catholic High School
Reading, PA
After a comprehensive national search that attracted numerous highly qualified candidates, Berks Catholic High School is thrilled to announce that Bill Hess will serve as the next Head of School effective July 2021. With 29 years’ experience as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the Diocese of Allentown, Bill is uniquely qualified to lead Berks Catholic in this next chapter of their growth. Most recently, he served as Assistant Principal at the school and as its Assistant Varsity Football Coach.
Bill earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania his Master’s in Educational Leadership from Alvernia College.
Head of School - St. Anthony Schools, Wailuku-Maui, HI
David Kenney
Head of School
St. Anthony Schools
Wailuku-Maui, HI
The St. Anthony School Board of Directors announces their rigorous nationwide search for a new Head of School has reached a successful conclusion with the selection of David Kenney to lead the school. Mr. Kenney holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Catholic University of America, a Master of Education from the University of Massachusetts at Boston, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies from the University of Massachusetts at Boston. In addition, he has completed coursework related to School Finance and Business Administration, Selection and Development of Educational Personnel, Legal Aspects of School Administration, and Human Concerns in Schools.
Principal - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School, Myrtle Beach, SC
Kelly Blake
Principal
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School
Myrtle Beach, SC
Following our swift and intensive nationwide search that produced a diverse and competitive pool of highly qualified candidates from across the country, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School and the Diocese of Charleston recently announced Kelly Blake as its next Principal. Kelly most recently served nearby St. Andrew Catholic School, where she served as the BRAVE at Home Coordinator. Previously, Kelly served as Principal of All Saints Catholic School in Dallas, TX and also taught at Prince of Peace Catholic School in Plano, TX. Kelly holds a Master of Arts in Leadership in Teaching with a Principal Certification from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland as well as a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Towson University.
President - Lafayette Catholic School System, Lafayette, IN
Michael Seeley
President
Lafayette Catholic School System
Lafayette, Indiana
Dr. Peg Dispenzieri, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana, and Mr. Bryan Stapleton, chair of the Lafayette Catholic School System Board of Directors are pleased to announce the selection of Mr. Michael Seeley as president of the Lafayette Catholic School System (LCSS). Seeley has a unique background of leading cross-functional teams and institution-wide projects as well as leading the day to day requirements of a senior level administrator.
Cabinet Secretary of Education and Superintendent of Schools - Archdiocese of Miami, FL
Dr. Jim Rigg
Cabinet Secretary of Education and Superintendent of Schools
Archdiocese of Miami
Miami, Florida
His Excellency Thomas G. Wenski has appointed Dr. Jim Rigg as the next Cabinet Secretary of Education and Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Miami. Dr. Rigg comes to the Archdiocese of Miami from the Archdiocese of Chicago where he served as Superintendent of Schools under Cardinal Blase J. Cupich for the past six years. Previously, Dr. Rigg served as Director of Education and Superintendent of Schools in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati overseeing the Office of Catechesis as well as Office of Schools, in an organizational structure similar to the Archdiocese of Miami.
President - Helias Catholic High School, Jefferson City, MO
John Knight
President
Helias Catholic High School
Jefferson City, Missouri
Diocese of Jefferson City Bishop W. Shawn McKnight and Dr. Erin Vader, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, are thrilled to announce the appointment of John Knight as president of Helias Catholic High School in Jefferson City, Missouri, the largest secondary school in the Diocese, effective July 1, 2021.
John is a former Jesuit seminarian who served Catholic school communities for over three decades as a teacher of Theology, a Director of Campus Ministry and Christian Service, a co-founder of a Middle School for Boys, a coach, a counselor, and an assistant athletic director. Since 2007, he served as president in four religious and diocesan high schools in California, Michigan, New York, and Wisconsin.
John holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Toledo (Ohio), a master’s in religious education from Loyola University in Chicago and a post graduate degree as an education specialist from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan.
Principal - Helias Catholic High School, Jefferson City, MO
Spencer Allen
Principal
Helias Catholic High School
Jefferson City, Missouri
Diocese of Jefferson City Bishop W. Shawn McKnight and Dr. Erin Vader, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, are thrilled to announce the appointment of Spencer Allen as principal of Helias Catholic High School in Jefferson City, Missouri, effective July 1, 2021.
Spencer has 25 years of education experience from preschool through high school and almost as many years of evangelization as a speaker and author, including in radio and television.
He has been principal of St. Joseph Cathedral School in Jefferson City since 2007 overseeing strong standardized testing growth, a significant increase of the school’s staff and student diversity, and substantial facilities development. During his tenure, the school’s special education program doubled in size. Spencer also facilitated establishing a comprehensive stewardship program to match with Bishop McKnight’s vision.
He earned his bachelor’s in education and advanced degrees, including an education specialist in educational administration and leadership from Lincoln University.
Principal - Bishop Amat Memorial High School, La Puente, CA
Gabriel Escobar
Principal
Bishop Amat Memorial High School
La Puente, California
Richard Beck, incoming President of Bishop Amat Memorial High School in La Puente, California is pleased to announce that Gabriel Escobar has been named his successor as principal, effective July 1, 2021.
Gabriel brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience to the position having worked as an educator at Bishop Amat High School in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles for the past 19 years, the last five-years as Assistant Principal for Academics.
Having worked as an English teacher, school counselor, and administrator, Gabriel is well versed in the myriad issues encountered by students, faculty, staff, and parents and has faced these challenges head-on with his positive and collaborative nature producing remarkable results.
Gabriel earned his B.A. from UCLA and his M.S in Education from Mt. St. Mary’s University.
Head of School - Marian Catholic High School, Tamaqua, PA
Michael Brennan
Head of School
Marian Catholic High School
Tamaqua, PA
Marian Catholic High School is thrilled to announce that Michael Brennan ‘06 was selected from an extensive national search to lead the school as its next Head of School effective July 2021. Brennan is the first Marian Catholic graduate to return home to lead this tradition-rich school community.
Michael currently works at Palmerton Area High School as a Special Education teacher and co-head golf coach while also serving as the assistant boys’ basketball coach for the past eleven years at Marian Catholic.
Brennan earned his Principal Certificate from Point Park University in Pittsburgh in 2020; received his M.Ed., Educational Administration/Special Education at the University of Pittsburgh in 2014; and graduated with a B.S.Ed., Elementary Education/Special Education from Wilkes University.
Head of School - Shrine Catholic Schools, Royal Oak, MI
Joanne Jones
Head of Schools
Shrine Catholic Schools
Royal Oak, MI
After an extensive nationwide search that produced an impressive field of high-quality candidates, Shrine Catholic Schools in Royal Oak, MI is pleased to announce that Joanne Jones has been named Head of Schools effective July 2021.
Jones brings over 30 years’ experience in Catholic education to the position. Included in her impressive resume were stints as Primary School and Lower School Director at the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Bloomfield, MI, Principal and Director of Development at Corpus Christi Catholic School in Holland, MI, and Executive Director of Academics at Notre Dame Preparatory School in Towson, Maryland.
Additionally, she serves as a Design Team Member, Mentor, and Presenter for the Latino Enrollment Institute at the University of Notre Dame where she is tasked with mentoring principals from around the country on building school culture and enrollment.
Jones earned her BA from the University of Michigan, a Master of Arts in English Language and Literature and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Oakland University.
President - St. Francis Borgia High School, Washington, MO
Matthew Schutte
President
St. Francis Borgia High School
Washington, MO
The Archdiocese of St. Louis is pleased to announce that Matthew Schutte has been appointed the next president of St. Francis Borgia Regional High School effective July 2021.
Matthew is currently serving as Vice President of Community Relations & Post-Secondary Advisory at St. Pius X High School in Festus, MO. In his role, he supervises the admissions and alumni engagement staff, assists with advancement initiatives, and engages constituencies as a grant writer and grant administrator.
He previously served as the Director of Admissions & Enrollment Management at St. Pius X and worked in admissions for 17 years first at Webster University and later at Saint Louis University. He was also an adjunct faculty member in Webster University’s School of Communications.
Matthew earned his Bachelor of Science degree in English from Illinois State University and a Master of Arts degree in Media Communications with a public relations emphasis from Webster University. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in education administration.
Secretary for Catholic Schools/Superintendent - Archdiocese of Washington, Washington, D.C.
Kelly Branaman
Secretary for Catholic Schools/Superintendent
Archdiocese of Washington
Washington, D.C.
After a national search process, Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory is thrilled to appoint Kelly A. Branaman as the next Secretary for Catholic Schools and Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.
Kelly has served the Archdiocese since the early 2000s in several roles including Director of Special Education/Support Services Coordinator, Director of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools, Assistant Superintendent, and Associate Superintendent for Strategic Planning and School Operations.
Branaman, a Harvard University Graduate School of Education Strategic Data Project Fellow, earned a Master of Arts degree in education – special education from the University of Louisville and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and special education/learning disabilities from Indiana University.
Kelly was awarded the National Catholic Educational Association’s Lead.Learn.Proclaim. Award for Diocesan Leadership in 2017 and the National Catholic Educational Association’s Catherine T. McNamee, CJS President’s Award in 2002. This past year she was a member of NCEA’s committee on National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools.
There are 26,000 students from diverse backgrounds attending the 91 archdiocesan and independent Catholic schools located in the Archdiocese of Washington, which include early learning centers, elementary schools, and high schools. The archdiocese’s Catholic schools are located in Washington, D.C., and the five surrounding Maryland counties of Calvert, Charles, Montgomery, Prince George’s and St. Mary’s.
2019 and Earlier
Angeline Trudell
President
St. Monica Catholic School
Dallas, TX
With extensive experience in Catholic schools as a teacher, principal, and president, St. Monica Catholic School in Dallas, TX is thrilled to announce Angeline M. Trudell as its inaugural President effective July 2020. A graduate of the State University of New York at Cortland, Angeline began her career as an elementary school teacher in New York and California before being named principal in 1988. Since 2002, she served as Principal and then President at St. Junipero Serra Catholic School in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. During her tenure, she led efforts to increase enrollment from 600 students to 1100 students and oversaw two multi-million-dollar construction projects for a Middle School Education Complex and Gym and a Chapel, STEM Wing, Administrative Wing, and Parent Hub. Angeline also served as Accreditation Chair of the Western Catholic Education Association/Western Association of Schools and Colleges for the past 20 years.
Kenneth Willers
President
Notre Dame Academy
Duluth, GA
After an extensive national search, Notre Dame Academy in Duluth, GA is excited to announce Kenneth J. Willers as President starting July 2020. Most recently Ken served as principal at the School of the Madeleine, Berkeley, CA for eight years before being named Associate Superintendent of Leadership for Innovation and Growth for the Diocese of Oakland, CA in 2018. While with the Diocese, he initiated a partnership with the NCEA and ISTE to create a nation-wide program of ISTE certification for Catholic educators. He’s received numerous national awards including NAESP’s National Distinguished Principal in 2017, NCEA’s Lead. Learn. Proclaim Award for Outstanding Leadership in 2017, and ISTE’s Administrator Award for Exemplary Leadership in 2016. He also served as an Executive Mentor Coach with NCEA from 2017 to 2019. Ken earned his B.A. from Don Bosco College, a Master of Divinity from the Jesuit School of the Theology of Santa Clara University, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Catholic Diocesan Leadership from The Catholic University of America.
Sean Brennan
President
East Catholic High School
Manchester, CT
Archbishop of Hartford Leonard P. Blair and the East Catholic High School Search Committee are delighted to announce Sean P. Brennan as their next President effective summer 2020. Before “coming home,” the 1985 ECHS grad worked as a teacher, coach, dorm parent, advisor, admissions officer, academic dean, division head, and head of school. During seven years as Vermont Academy’s Head of School he led efforts that increased enrollment by 20% and the annual fund by 31% during challenging economic times. Sean leaves behind his role as Assistant Headmaster and Upper School Head at Austin Prep in Reading, MA where he oversaw development of the Upper School Strategic Plan focusing on the school’s Augustinian charisms and encouraging all constituents to live the mission. Sean earned his M.A. and B.A. from Middlebury College.
William Ryan
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Diocese of Charleston
Charleston, SC
The Diocese of Charleston South Carolina is delighted to welcome William H. Ryan as its next Superintendent of Catholic Schools. Mr. Ryan has held various school-based and central office positions throughout his distinguished career in education. Since 2015, Mr. Ryan has been the Secretary for Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Washington, providing oversight and support for 68 Catholic elementary schools, 20 Catholic high schools, and seven early childhood programs in Washington, D.C. and southern Maryland. In 2009 he was recognized by the National Association of Secondary School Principals and the Maryland Association of Secondary School Principals as the best High School Principal in Maryland. Mr. Ryan earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from Bloomsburg University and a Master’s Degree in Administration/Supervision in Education from Bowie State University.
Mark Bayens
President
Bishop DuBourg High School
St. Louis, MO
The Archdiocese of St. Louis Office of Catholic Education and Formation is thrilled to announce Mr. Mark Bayens as the new President at Bishop DuBourg High School in St. Louis, MO.
After earning his B.S. from the University of Missouri-Columbia he embarked on a career working in elementary and high schools, most recently serving as Director of Athletics at Notre Dame High School in St. Louis.
Additionally, Mr. Bayens (Bishop DuBourg ’81) earned his M.A. from Maryville University and his M.S. in education administration from Lindenwood University.
Siobhan Mahoney
Principal
St. John School
Wellesley, MA
The Archdiocese of Boston is pleased to announce that Siobhan S. Mahoney has been selected as Principal at St. John School in Wellesley, MA. Following a stint as Residential Program Teacher, Education Coordinator Assistant, and Preschool Teacher at the New England Center for Children, Siobhan served five years as Director of Admissions at Mount Alvernia High School. In 2108, she was named as Assistant Head of School at the Newton, MA school.
Siobhan earned a B.A. from St. Joseph College of Maine, a Master’s in Education from Simmons College, and was a fellow in cohort VIII at the Lynch Leadership Academy at Boston College.
Dr. Daniel Everett
Head of School
Fr. Tolton Catholic High School
Columbia, MO
Fr. Tolton Catholic High School in Columbia, MO is pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Everett, Ed.D. as its new Head of School. Most recently, Dr. Everett worked eleven years at JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano, California spending six years as Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Innovation before moving on to be interim Head of School at St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel, California. He earned his B.A. from Franciscan University, an M.A. from Loyola Marymount University, and an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership from Pepperdine University.
Stephen Murphy, Esq.
President
Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School
Oakland, CA
Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School is delighted to welcome Stephen Murphy as its new President. Mr. Murphy was the founder and managing partner of Murphy, Vu, Thongsamouth & Chatterjee, LLP. Most recently, he served as the Director of the Alameda County Family Justice Center, a division of the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, where his responsibilities included fundraising, writing grants, organizing fundraisers, speaking at events, and supervising strategic planning. Mr. Murphy is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of San Francisco School of Law and a Catechist at Newman Hall Holy Spirit Parish in Berkeley. He is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of San Francisco School of Law.
William Crittenberger
Head of School
Bishop O'Connell High School
Arlington, VA
Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington, VA is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. William T. Crittenberger as its next President. His background includes a 36-year career in education as a teacher, coach, and administrator at private schools and Catholic schools in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. For the past eight years, Mr. Crittenberger served as Headmaster at St. Anselm Abbey Catholic School, where among other accomplishments, he grew enrollment 20%, oversaw a faculty retention rate of 97%, and significantly increased both financial aid and the number of seniors named National AP Scholars. He earned his B.A. from George Washington University, an M.A. from Yale University, and an M.S. from Johns Hopkins University.
Dr. Erin Vader
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Diocese of Jefferson City
Jefferson City, MO
The Diocese of Jefferson City, MO is pleased to announce that Dr. Erin Vader will serve as its new Superintendent. Dr. Vader has an illustrious 20+ career in Catholic education as a teacher, principal, and President. During three years as President at Nolan Catholic High School in Fort Worth, TX, she facilitated donations and pledges of over $30 million for campus upgrades. During the past three years, Dr. Vader served as Coordinator for Schools Advancement in the Diocese of Fort Worth. She earned her B.A. from the University of Texas at Arlington and her M.Ed. and Doctor of Educational Leadership from Texas Wesleyan University.
Dr. Marissa Muoio
Head of Upper School
Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart
Princeton, NJ
Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart is delighted to welcome Dr. Marissa C. Muoio as its Head of Upper School. She is a product of twenty-five years of Catholic education. Her professional career has been devoted to an all-girls, Catholic, independent school beginning as a Library-Media Specialist, where she co-chaired an online learning initiative. She later served as Curriculum Coordinator and most recently as Dean of Academics. Marissa earned her B.S., M.A., and an Ed.D. in Education Leadership, Management, and Policy from Seton Hall University.
Philip Riley, Jr.
President
St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System
Appleton, WI
With 27 years’ experience in Catholic education, including 20 as principal, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System is excited to welcome Mr. Philip R. Riley, Jr. to Appleton, WI as its President. Born in Nebraska, Mr. Riley served as a First Lieutenant in Desert Storm. Upon his return, he began his career in Catholic schools as a middle school teacher. In 2015, he was the recipient of the 2015 Dr. Robert J. Kealey National Catholic Education Association Principal of the Year Award. Since 2012, he has served as Principal of St. Monica Catholic School in Dallas, TX. Mr. Riley earned a B.A. from Benedictine College, an M.S. in Educational Administration from Texas A & M University, and is a current Boston College Emmaus Series Candidate.
Angie Baker
Upper School Director
Walsingham Academy
Williamsburg, VA
Mrs. Angie Baker joins Walsingham Academy as the Upper School Director and has been serving as Upper School Director of Academic Affairs since July 1, 2016, where she had been focusing on curriculum, academic progress, coordination with the Counseling Office, and faculty professional development. A longtime and highly respected member of the Upper School faculty, Mrs. Baker had served as a science teacher for eight years before taking the position of Director of Academic Affairs. She brings 18 total years of teaching experience and has previously served as an administrator at St. Frederick High School in Monroe, Louisiana.
Ian Mulligan
Principal
St. John Vianney High School
Kirkwood, MO
Mr. Ian Mulligan joins St. John Vianney High School in Kirkwood, MO as it new Principal. Mr. Mulligan is an outstanding educator with over ten years of experience, having served most recently as Assistant Principal at Rangeview High School in Aurora, Colorado. Prior to being Assistant Principal, Mr. Mulligan served as a teacher at Regis Jesuit High School. Mr. Mulligan holds a Master of Education with Specialization in Educational Leadership degree from Regis University in Denver, CO, and his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from The University of Dayton in Ohio.
Connie D’Angelo
Principal
Saint Basil Academy
Jenkintown, PA
Connie D’Angelo returns to Saint Basil Academy as the new principal. The veteran Catholic school educator served from 2010-212 as Saint Basil’s vice-principal. D’Angelo has more than 18 years’ experience as a Catholic teacher and administrator. She has made a commitment to Catholic education, both professionally and personally, her entire life. Most recently, D’Angelo served as dean of student affairs at nearby Mount St. Joseph Academy and has experience in the classroom spanning 12 years before moving into administrative leadership positions. D’Angelo attended Cabrini College where she received her certificate in Educational Leadership (K-12). Additionally, she obtained a MA Writing -English (7-12) Secondary Education Certificate from Arcadia University and her BA English; Minor: World Languages from St. Joseph’s University.
Gerald DeFruscio
President
Cardinal O'Hara High School
Springfield, PA
Mr. Gerald “Jay” DeFruscio, a native of Drexel Hill and Class of 1978 graduate of Monsignor Bonner High School (Delaware County), has been selected as the new president. Mr. DeFruscio is a seasoned leader in the fields of athletics and higher education and joins Cardinal O’Hara from The Atlantic 10 Athletic Conference (A10), headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, where he has served as Associate Commissioner for Men’s Basketball since 2011. In this role he facilitated Communications between the Conference office and member school’s administrators and coaches, oversaw the leagues television and scheduling processes, as well as represented and promoted interest of basketball programs outside the league with the NCAA. Prior to his time with the A10 he served as the Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach for the Indiana Pacers (NBA) as well as Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at Wheeling Jesuit University in Wheeling, West Virginia. He earned his Master’s in Business Administration from Wheeling Jesuit University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics/Business Administration from Ursinus College in Collegeville (Montgomery County).
Jim Welby
President
St. Dominic High School
O'Fallon, MO
Mr. Jim Welby joins St. Dominic High School as its new President. He has served the St. Dominic community as athletic director since 2012 and has 17 years of experience in Catholic education. Prior to coming to St. Dominic, Welby served as a teacher and administrator at his alma mater, Bishop DuBourg High School. He brings 13 years of administrative experience, including serving as athletic director and advancement director at Bishop DuBourg. Welby has a Master’s in Business Administration from Maryville University and his Bachelor of Science in Administration, with a minor in History from St. Louis University.
Maura Spignesi
Head of School
Fontbonne Academy
Milton, MA
Mrs. Maura Spignesi has accepted the position of Head of School at Fontbonne Academy. Prior to assuming her new role as Head of School, Spignesi has served at Fontbonne since 2002 in several different roles including: Assistant Head of School for Administration and Student Life, Administrative Dean, Director of Guidance, Guidance Counselor, International Student Coordinator and teacher. Spignesi’s education includes a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with concentration and certification in School Counseling from Boston College, and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Secondary Education from Boston College.
W. Paul Harrington
Head of School
Pope Francis High School
Springfield, MA
Pope Francis High School announced Dr. W. Paul Harrington, Jr. as its new Head of School. Mr. Harrington previously served as Head of School for Bishop Garcia Diego High School in Santa Barbara, Calif. A native of Holliston, Mass., Harrington holds a Bachelor of Science in biology with a minor in economics from Fairfield University, and a Master of Arts in school administration from Loyola Marymount University. He received his Doctor of Education in educational leadership at the University of Southern California.
Jim Lehn
President
St. Pius X High School
Festus, MO
Mr. Jim Lehn has been named President of St. Pius X High School. Prior to accepting the president position at St. Pius X, Jim held various leadership roles at Anheuser-Busch, Ascension Health and Mercy/ROi. He also served on the finance committee and was the capital campaign co-chair at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Imperial and served on the finance committee and board of directors at St. Pius X High School. Lehn graduated from Windsor High School in 1987, then went on to serve four years in the United States Air Force. After serving his country, he earned an Associate's degree from Jefferson College in 1993 using the GI Bill. He then completed his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing and Management from the University of Missouri - St. Louis in 1996 and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Webster University in 2003.
Ben Hopper
Principal
Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School
Sarasota, FL
Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School announced the appointment of Mr. Ben Hopper as Principal. Mr. Hopper is an accomplished educator and committed administrator with 17 years of Catholic school experience, having served most recently as Principal of John Carroll High School in Fort Pierce, Florida since 2005. Hopper also served John Carrol as Dean of Students and classroom teacher before moving into his administrative and spiritual leadership position. Hopper holds a Bachelor’s Degree from The University of Florida and a Master’s of Arts degree in Educational Leadership, Management, and Policy from Seton Hall University.
Lisa Lorenz
Principal
Rice Memorial High School
South Burlington, VT
Lisa Lorenz emerged from a competitive national search process as the school’s choice for its permanent principal. Lorenz earned a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University, a MA in Moral Theology from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary; as well as a MA in Pastoral Counseling from Loyola University in Baltimore. Her extensive experience includes serving as a Catholic middle school teacher, department chair, principal, and diocesan superintendent. A licensed counselor, Lisa also served McDaniel College and the University of Maryland graduate programs as a department coordinator in school counseling and mental health.
Steven Gadecki
Principal
Trinity High School
Manchester, NH
After serving the Trinity High School community as a teacher and administrator for over 17 years, Steven Gadecki emerged from a competitive national search to serve as the school’s next Principal. A lifelong educator, Steven’s career spans over 30 years, serving predominately in Catholic high school settings. Steven holds a BS in Mathematics from Clemson University and an MS in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Kansas. Additionally, he completed graduate level education courses at Purdue and Millersville Universities.
Amy Mettlach
Chief Academic Officer
Newman Catholic Schools
Wausau, WI
Amy Mettlach was appointed to leadership team of Newman Catholic Schools serving as their first Chief Academic Officer. Ms. Mettlach has had a distinguished career serving as a junior high and senior high English teacher working with students with a wide variety of learning needs. She served as the English Department Chair at St. Francis Xavier High School in Appleton, prior to helping develop and implement the Reach Academy at Neenah High School. Amy received Bachelor’s degrees in both Education and English Literature from Miami University of Ohio, followed by her M. Ed. in Educational Supervision and Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Sandra Betters
Principal
Our Lady of Mercy Academy
Syosset, NY
Sandra Betters was been named the new Principal of Our Lady of Mercy Academy (OLMA) in Syosset, New York. Ms. Betters joins the leadership team at OLMA after serving at Rockland County Day School as their Academic Dean. Prior, she served for ten years at The Albany Academies. Before transitioning into school administration, she taught senior high school English, middle school history and English, and briefly taught at the elementary level. Sandra holds a BS in Elementary Education from St. Bonaventure University, and a M. Ed. in Educational Administration and Supervision form the College of St. Rose.
Tricia Menzhuber
Principal
St. John Paul II Catholic Preparatory School
Minneapolis, MN
The Ascension Catholic Academy (ACA), a consortium of schools serving low-income scholars with diverse needs selected Tricia Menzhuber as their Principal of St. John Paul II Catholic Preparatory School in Minneapolis. For the last five years, Ms. Menzhuber was the Head of School at The Way of the Shepherd Catholic Montessori School. Previously, she was the Religion Department Head at the Convent of the Visitation School. Tricia received BA degrees in International Studies and in Justice and Peace Studies from the University of St. Thomas. Her graduate work includes an MA in Education from the Alliance for Catholic Education at the University of Notre Dame, and an Education Specialist degree from the University of St. Thomas.
James Kaiser
Secretary of Social Ministry
Diocese of Charleston
Charleston, SC
James P. Kaiser, Jr., Esq. was named Secretary of Social Ministry for The Diocese of Charleston, South Carolina. He brings a plethora of impressive experiences to the position including serving as Executive Director of Order of Malta Western Association, Majority Counsel with the Committee on Government Reform in the United States House of Representatives, Executive Director of the Ukrainian Catholic Education Foundation, Inc., and Attorney with the U.S. Coast Guard. He earned his B.A. from Franciscan University of Steubenville and a Juris Doctor from University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Additionally, he is currently a Graduate Candidate in Theology, Mission, and Ministry at University of Cambridge & Durham University, UK.
Dr. Darbie Safford
Principal
St. Mary's Catholic School
Longview, TX
St. Mary’s Catholic School in Longview, TX is thrilled to announce the hiring of Dr. Darbie Safford as Principal. Her impressive list of experiences in Catholic education includes stints as Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at the University of Dallas, as well as instructor, Director of Admissions and College Counseling, and Principal at Catholic schools in Texas. Dr. Safford presented at the annual NCEA Conference in Chicago (2019) and the NCEA Leadership Summit in Jacksonville, FL (2018). She earned her Doctor of Education from St. Louis University and her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Dallas.
Cheri Lynn Wood
Principal
Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Santa Margarita Catholic High School in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is pleased to announce that Cheri Lynn Wood has been selected as Principal. She was awarded a Post-Master’s Certificate in School Administration from Notre Dame of Maryland University and earned both her M.A. and B.A. in Psychology from Occidental College. She was also awarded a Klingenstein Summer Fellowship in Educational Administration to attend Teachers College at Columbia University. Cheri was recently published in Momentum, NCEA’s quarterly magazine.
Ann McManus
Principal
Newman Catholic Middle and High School
Wausau, WI
Having served Wausau Catholic Schools since 1992 as teacher, associate principal, and middle school principal, Ann McManus has been named Principal at Newman Catholic Middle and High School in Wausau, WI. She received her Master of Arts in Education – Teacher Leadership from Viterbo University and her Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. Ann earned her Wisconsin DPI Administrative License from St. Mary’s University in Winona, MN. She served on the Advisory Council for the Diocese of LaCrosse, created a mentoring program for newly hired staff, and increased enrollment during her tenure as middle school principal.
Dr. Anna Maria Downey
Principal and CEO
Incarnate Word High School
San Antonio, TX
Dr. Anna Maria Downey was selected from among an impressive field of high-quality candidates to be the Principal and CEO of Incarnate Word High School in San Antonio, TX. She brings over 25 years’ experience in Catholic education to the position. Anna earned her Doctor of Education from Union Institute & University, a Master of Education from Jones University, and a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Mount Saint Joseph. She was awarded High School Educator of the Year in 2018 from the University of Cincinnati. She also participated in the Alpaugh Scholars Leadership Program at the University of Cincinnati.
John McCarthy
Principal
St. John Paul II Catholic School
Ridgeland, SC
John E. McCarthy, an experienced educator with over thirty-five years as a teacher, principal, and superintendent in both public and private school systems has been selected as Principal of St. John Paul II Catholic School in Ridgeland, SC. He earned his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Providence College. John is a Doctoral Candidate in Leadership in Schooling at Lesley University. During his tenures as Superintendent, he was responsible for building and mentoring a leadership team where over one-third of its members went on to become school superintendents and led the visioning, design, marketing, successful bond vote, and construction of a $75,000,000 middle school and performing arts center.
Robert Loia
Principal
Cardinal Newman School
Columbia, SC
Cardinal Newman School in Columbia, SC is delighted to announce the appointment of Robert A. Loia as Principal. Robert has devoted his professional life to Catholic schools since 1991 as a teacher, coach, sacristan, guidance counselor, and administrator. He earned his M.A. in Educational Leadership from University of Notre Dame, his M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Loyola University of Maryland, Baltimore, and his B.A. in History and Philosophy from The Catholic University of America.
Dr. Todd Sweda
Superintendent of Schools
Archdiocese of St. Louis
St. Louis, MO
After an enormously successful tenure as CEO of Archbishop Hoban High School in Ohio, Dr. Todd Sweda has been appointed the new Superintendent of Schools in the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Dr. Sweda earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership, Management & Policy from Seton Hall University, a Master of Arts in the Humanities from Georgetown University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Wittenberg University. While at Archbishop Hoban, Dr. Sweda secured funding, created partnerships, and repurposed space for the construction of an Innovation Center comprised of a makerspace for pursuits in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics and an entrepreneurship and communications studio for pursuits in business and distance learning. He also directed a successful $7 million capital campaign for a chapel/retreat center, an athletic performance/health and fitness center, and increased endowment funds.
Chad Barwick
Head of School
Archbishop Hannan High School
Covington, LA
The Archdiocese of New Orleans and Archbishop Hannan High School are delighted to welcome Chad Barwick as its new inaugural Head of School. Chad has 16 years of invaluable experience in Catholic schools as a teacher, coach, and principal before becoming President at St. Pius X Catholic High School, the largest school in the Diocese of Atlanta, raising over $1 million in the Annual Fund and overseeing an $18.4 million budget. He earned his B.A. from Auburn University, an M.Ed. from the University of Notre Dame, and a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Notre Dame’s Remick Leadership Program.
Guiliana Battaglini
Director of Advancement
Notre Dame Academy Schools of Los Angeles
Columbia, SC
Notre Dame Academy of Schools of Los Angeles is pleased to welcome Guiliana Battaglini as its new Director of Advancement. A summa cum laude graduate of UCLA and a Rhodes Scholar nominee, Guiliana served as President of UCLA’s Bruins Bells Service Organization, a philanthropic, non-profit, volunteer leadership organization of 90 women. Upon graduation, she served as Development Assistant for UCLA Health Services working on donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Most recently, Guiliana served in the Advancement Office at Loyola Marymount University as the school’s Senior Events Coordinator. She is a graduate of Notre Academy of Schools and is on track for a Master of Business Administration from Loyola Marymount.