Top 10 Head of Catholic Schools - 2026

Leading a school requires more than academic direction. It demands a clear understanding of its mission, financial health, community expectations, and the individual needs of its students. At Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr, Robin Nolan brings these responsibilities together through a leadership philosophy shaped by years of experience in Catholic education and institutional advancement.

Lorraine Riley became head of Marymount School of New York in 2025 after leading admissions there. Earlier, she directed curriculum and instruction at KIPP New Orleans, focusing on academic system design, instructional coaching and literacy.

Catherine Ronan Karrels returned to Stone Ridge as head of school, having attended it for 12 years. She previously founded De Marillac Academy in San Francisco and served as its president and principal.

Mary Rose Guerin leads Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart, an all-girls Catholic middle and high school. She emphasizes academic rigor, real-world learning and developing students who lead with compassion and integrity.

Kathy Kenny leads Gilmour Academy, a Catholic coeducational school in Ohio. A Gilmour alumna, she frames the school’s mission around courageous leadership, hospitality, authenticity and service to a more just society.

Tim Loescher has led Mater Christi School as president and head of school since 2017, after serving as assistant head and middle school mathematics teacher. Earlier, he worked as a campus minister and earned degrees in geology, liberal studies and mathematics.

James R. Lower became St. Charles Preparatory School’s first head of school in 2024 after serving 12 years as principal. He has more than 40 years of experience as an educator and administrator in Catholic education.

Sheri Gillio has led St. Scholastica Academy, a Catholic Benedictine all-girls high school, since 2020. Her tenure has included expanded dual-enrollment and AP programs, campus renovations and the school’s 2021 National Blue Ribbon recognition.

Caroline Blatti leads Canterbury School and brings more than 25 years of experience in independent schools in the U.S. and U.K. Her career includes leading Roland Park Country School and directing Hutchison Leads, a student leadership program.

Denis Schexnaydre heads Archbishop Hannan High School in Louisiana. He holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Dayton and a bachelor’s degree in psychology and business administration from Loyola University New Orleans.