Head of School, Kate D. Adams
 

 

On July 1, 2023, Mrs. Kate D. Adams officially joined Convent of the Sacred Heart as the Head of School! An innovative educational leader with over 15 years of experience, Mrs. Adams succeeds Dr. Joseph Ciancaglini, who stepped down at the end of June 2023.

“Sacred Heart’s mission is everything I believe in,” says Mrs. Adams. “How to help each child be the best version of herself and share it with the world – that’s exactly what educational institutions should be doing.”

Her first priority as head of school? 

“I want to learn more about all the things that make Sacred Heart the wonderful place that it is,” she says. “I know I’m joining a very vibrant community. I’m excited.”

Mrs. Adams insists she has a lot to learn about 91st Street, but it is clear that she brings considerable experience to her role. For the past six years, she served as the Chief Academic Officer for the Awty School in Houston, Texas, where she oversaw all aspects of teaching and learning for 1,750 students in grades Pre-K - 12. In addition to integrating technology and championing STEAM education, she propelled the school’s Campus Center Project to transform the campus for the future. The school’s largest capital campaign venture to date, the Campus Center Project created spaces such as new areas for innovation and collaboration, new science and technology labs, and a makerspace. Mrs. Adams worked with the director of facilities, architects, and faculty for the project, experience that will be invaluable as 91st Street expands its curriculum around FutureLab.

From the moment I walked onto the 91st Street campus, I felt at home,” Mrs. Adams said. “As a Catholic, I am thrilled to embrace the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria and be a part of a spectacular mission-focused community. I understand the importance of an education that empowers girls for bright futures, and as a school leader, I want the students I serve to have every opportunity to develop their gifts so they can make an impact.”