Chicago, IL (July 9, 2024) – The Cristo Rey Network Is excited to announce the launch of the organization’s Principals Fellowship Program, generously supported by a lead, three-year investment from The Howley Foundation. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to promote the development of aspiring school leaders within the Network and to ensure a robust pipeline of skilled principals for the movement’s future.

The Principals Fellowship Program is a two-year professional development experience for Cristo Rey educators poised to take on leadership roles in Network schools. The initiative includes in-person learning, cohort webinars, individual coaching, and Principal support, all aimed at enhancing leadership competencies and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

"The Principals Fellowship Program will facilitate pivotal learning and development opportunities that elevate emerging leaders across the Cristo Rey Network," said Meg Howley, Executive Director of The Howley Foundation in Philadelphia. The Howley Foundation is proud to partner in this important work, developing talented and committed principals in service of Cristo Rey students across the country."

With 40 Catholic, college preparatory schools nationwide, Cristo Rey has dozens of strong emerging educators in the Network who are approaching readiness to lead schools as a Principal. Five rising leaders have recently been named inaugural Fellows of the program.

Cristo Rey Network 2024 Principal Fellows:

• Adolfo Guevara, Cristo Rey San José Jesuit High School
• Deonté Greene, Cristo Rey Miami High School
• Mary Margaret Mills, Cristo Rey Research Triangle High School
• Josh Ramos, Cristo Rey Boston High School
• Gillian Wible, Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School

These Principal Fellows will sit on academic leadership teams at their respective schools and commit to a three-year leadership position at Cristo Rey Network school upon completing the program. 

"This initiative represents a significant investment in the future of our schools and the development of our leaders,” said Kelby Woodard, President & CEO of Cristo Rey Network. “By providing comprehensive support and fostering a collaborative environment, we are confident that our Principal Fellows will emerge as transformative leaders in education."

For more information about the Cristo Rey Network Principal's Fellowship Program, please contact Cristo Rey Network Chief Talent Officer Brendan Bedell at bbedell@cristoreynetwork.org.