Message from the President

As we begin a new school year, I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself and, more importantly, to say how grateful I am that we are beginning this new chapter together.

As Padua Academy's first President, I am mindful of the significance of this moment and of the trust that comes with it. I am thrilled to be back in Wilmington, surrounded by such a strong school community and such a wonderful city. And, I have to admit, I won't miss that long drive up the Blue Route! My husband, Brian, and I live close to Padua, and we feel strongly about becoming part of the fabric of this community.

I loved my years at Archbishop Carroll, and I will always be grateful for that experience and the people who shaped me there. But I am ready and excited to lead Padua. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity, and I promise to always lead with our students and this community at the heart of every decision.

My connection to Padua is especially personal. My daughter graduated from Padua in 2019, and when I accepted this role, I made her a promise as well: to do right by her alma mater and to make her proud. That promise means a great deal to me.

Less than one month behind this desk, I am already proud of all that Padua has accomplished and of the remarkable young women we send into the world each year. Our students continue to thrive, earning admission to outstanding universities and making their mark in so many different ways. That is something we should celebrate and build upon.

At the same time, the work has already begun here on 10th and Broom Streets. We have redesigned workflow procedures, strengthened safety protocols, and are in the midst of launching our very first Branding Guide. You'll begin to notice the official Padua shield and "P" appearing on doors throughout the building, small changes that reflect a larger effort to create consistency and a strong sense of pride across our school.

Of course, there are important challenges ahead as we thoughtfully plan for Padua’s future. Facilities, fundraising, and enrollment will all require our attention, creativity, and commitment. I look forward to working alongside our community as we navigate these opportunities together and discern what is best for all our Pandas.

Padua is an excellent school because of its people: our students, faculty, staff, families, alumnae, board and friends. I am honored to be part of this community, and I am grateful to each of you for the role you play in making Padua what it is. I look forward to getting to know you better and to all that we will accomplish together.