St. Catharine Academy
The Sisters of Mercy Regional Community of New York have appointed new principals for their two high schools. Sr. Joan Agro, O.P., a Blauvelt Dominican, was appointed Principal of Our Lady of Victory Academy (OLVA) located in Dobbs Ferry, NY. Sr. Ann Welch, RSM, a Mercy Sister from the Cedar Rapids, Iowa Regional Community, was appointed Principal of St. Catharine Academy located in the Pelham Parkway section of the Bronx.
Sr. Joan Agro is currently faculty member at OLVA where she chairs the Social Studies Department. In addition to her certification as a Social Studies teacher and experience as an elementary school administrator, Sr. Joan holds a Master’s degree in Reading and Certification in School Supervision and Administration from Manhattan College.
Sr. Ann Welch, who hails originally from the Bronx, brings 19 years of experience in secondary schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago where she served as Teacher Assistant, assistant Principal, and Principal. She holds undergraduate degrees in Biology, Chemistry, and Secondary Education as well as a Master of Arts degree in Biology and a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from Loyola University, Chicago.
Sr. Rhea Bean, who closes her term as Acting Principal of St. Catharine Academy at the end of the current school year, will assume the position of President of Mercy Secondary Education, a new post. An Administrative Circle, consisting of Sr. Rhea, Sr. Joan, and Sr. Ann, will assume management responsibilities for both institutions. Some responsibilities will be handled jointly such as budgeting and establishing school calendars. Others will be assigned to individual Circle members. The new structure will also result in more creative ideas to further the Mercy ministry and enhanced course offerings, including more Advanced Placement and on-line instruction.
In making the announcement, Sr. Patricia Wolf, RSM, New York Regional Community President, said: “We pray upon them a blessing that they may be gifted with wisdom, courage, tenderness, and a sure knowledge of God’s presence and providence.”