Saint Mary’s School Welcomes New Head of School

9/15/17 — Saint Mary’s School recently kicked off its 176th year of educating girls by welcoming new Head of School Brendan J. O’Shea to campus. O’Shea began his tenure in July 2017 and will serve as Saint Mary’s 14th Head of School.

A seasoned independent school educator and leader, O’Shea began his educational career at Woodberry Forest School. During his 16-year tenure, O’Shea served in numerous senior administrative positions, including Director of Admission; Assistant Headmaster for Admission, Marketing, and Financial Aid; and Assistant Headmaster and Dean of Academic Affairs. In 2004, O’Shea was appointed Headmaster of Charleston Day School, where he designed and managed a successful capital campaign resulting in the construction of a new Student Academic Center. He also led two successful accreditations for Charleston Day School and has served on numerous SAIS/SACS accreditation teams.

“What is unique about Brendan is his intrinsic ability to make connections,” shared Saint Mary’s Board Chair Gloria Taft Becker. “I look forward to the connections he undoubtedly will make here at Saint Mary’s School—whether it is connecting our traditions with the innovative needs of a 21st century education, his personal connection with our girls, parents, faculty, staff, and alumnae, or building a stronger connection off our campus with the broader community, these are just some of the connections I am confident he will make that will benefit our culture and momentum of academic excellence.”