Presidential Search Update & Position Announcement
October 31, 2025
Dear Mercy Community,
On behalf of the Mercy High School Board of Trustees, we are pleased to share an important update on our search for the next President of Mercy High School. In partnership with Carney, Sandoe & Associates, a nationally respected independent school search firm, we have been working thoughtfully and diligently to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive search effort.
As you may recall, in September our Carney Sandoe consultants visited campus to meet with key constituents including faculty, staff, students, parents, and alumnae. In addition, our community-wide survey invited your feedback on a variety of key topics, including the essential attributes in our next President and the strategic priorities you believe should guide Mercy’s future.
Thank you to everyone who participated! We received 400 responses, with more than 60% coming from alumnae, a wonderful testament to the lasting connection and engagement of our Mercy graduates.
Highlights from the Community Survey
When asked what the community values most about Mercy High School, respondents emphasized:
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Academic Excellence 
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All-girls school experience and mission 
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High-performing culture and expectations 
When identifying priorities for the next President, the top responses included:
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Recruiting, retaining, and compensating high-quality faculty 
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Enhancing academic excellence 
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Furthering diversity and inclusion at all levels 
Regarding the professional experiences and qualities most important for our next President, respondents cited:
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Poise, presence, and outstanding communication skills 
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Business, budgeting, and financial management expertise 
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Leadership experience in Catholic schools 
Finally, the top personal characteristics and leadership qualities most valued in our next President were:
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Honest, trustworthy, and transparent 
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Passion for Catholic identity and mission 
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Engaging, inspiring, and motivational 
Your thoughtful input has been invaluable in shaping both our search and the Position Description for the President of Mercy High School, which reflects the collective voice and values of our community.
Carney, Sandoe & Associates is now accepting applications and managing the recruitment process. The position has been posted in multiple locations and the full position description and application details can be found here.
We welcome applicants and invite you to share this position within your professional and personal networks to help us reach mission-driven leaders who will continue to advance the vision of Mercy High School and the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy.
We are deeply grateful for your prayers, engagement, and support as we continue this important work. Together, we remain steadfast in our mission to educate young women who are Compelled by Mercy, Educationally Courageous, Inspired by Faith, Principled Leaders, and a Voice for Dignity and Respect.
With gratitude,
Sharon Sanderson
Board of Trustee Chair, Mercy High School
Virginia Minolli '82
Board of Trustee, Mercy High School
| President Position Description & Application Info | 
| President Search Webpage | 
