December 11, 2023
Dear Notre Dame Schools community,
After a thoughtful and comprehensive evaluation process that involved assessing the current needs of Notre Dame, the key areas of focus for the next President, and the interpersonal qualities required from our next leader, the Board of Directors has unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Jacqueline Hoynes as the permanent President of Notre Dame Schools.
Dr. Hoynes is a mission-focused, student-centered leader who demonstrates a deep compassion toward the people with whom she works. She has an unmatchable depth of experience, the requisite leadership skills, and an unwavering commitment to Notre Dame’s mission and vision with the capacity for strategic planning and forward-thinking. This, in addition to her faith, makes her a transformational leader who inspires others with her strength and compassion. She is a trusted mentor, a strategic and systems thinker, and a highly relational, student-focused leader who imparts excellence as a standard.
“I felt an instant connection with the entire Notre Dame community four years ago when I was appointed to be the Principal of Notre Dame Elementary School,” said Dr. Hoynes, in reflecting on this appointment. “The Sisters of Notre Dame immediately prompted a sincere admiration for their ministry and has inspired me to also be a catalyst for God’s work. My priority is to continue to affirm their vision to engage all our students in an exceptional Catholic education and to focus on loving, respecting, and educating all our students to discover their God-given talents. I am truly grateful for this opportunity.”
Dr. Hoynes’ background uniquely prepares her for this appointment. After an extensive career as a public school educator, Dr. Hoynes moved into public school leadership. She successfully served as the Superintendent of Mentor Public Schools, where she led the district from a “continuous improvement” rating to an “excellent with distinction” rating on the State report card. From there, Dr. Hoynes then became the Director of School Improvement for Akron Public Schools. During her tenure she built a strong team of educators to lead school improvement work as well as planned and led professional development. In 2018, Dr. Hoynes became the Superintendent of Newbury Schools. After a long and distinguished career in public schools, Dr. Hoynes felt the draw of Catholic education. With a strong family connection to NDS, including Dr. Hoynes’ husband being a Cathedral Latin alumnus, and both of her children being NDCL graduates, she accepted the position of NDES/NDMS Principal in 2020 and interim President in 2023.
It is with great excitement that we look to the next chapter of Notre Dame Schools under the leadership and guidance of Dr. Hoynes as our next President. I am grateful to the Notre Dame Schools community for their continued support, and we look forward to a wonderful future.
May God continue to bless our community.
Wishing you a blessed Advent.
Sincerely,
David Payne
Board Chair of Notre Dame Schools