Archbishop William E. Lori recently revealed the new leader for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in the region’s educational landscape. Sister Patricia McCarron, S.S.N.D., Ph.D., an esteemed member of the School Sisters of Notre Dame for over three decades, will take the helm as superintendent in August 2025. She steps into this role following the tenure of Dr. Donna Hargens, who has held the position since 2018.
With a vast network of 54 schools serving nearly 25,000 students, Sister Patricia McCarron is poised to make a significant impact on Catholic education in the region. Her impressive background includes a lengthy stint as the head of school for Notre Dame Preparatory School (NDP) in Towson, where she has cultivated a reputation for fostering holistic student development encompassing academic, spiritual, moral, and physical growth. As Archbishop Lori aptly noted, Sister Patricia’s leadership style is marked by high energy, administrative acumen, and unwavering dedication to Christ, qualities that bode well for the future of Catholic schools in Baltimore.
The selection process that culminated in Sister Patricia McCarron’s appointment as superintendent was no ordinary affair. A rigorous five-month national search, spearheaded by Catholic Recruiter Associates and chaired by the esteemed Dr. Nancy Grasmick, brought McCarron to the forefront. Dr. Grasmick, a distinguished figure in the field of education and former Maryland public school superintendent, lauded Sister Patricia’s unwavering commitment to student success and excellence. Her experience in guiding principals and teachers, coupled with a strong track record of accomplishments at NDP, made her an ideal candidate for the position.
Under Sister Patricia McCarron’s leadership, Notre Dame Prep witnessed a surge in enrollment, reaching nearly 850 students, and a notable increase in student diversity. The school’s outstanding achievements, including being twice honored with the National Blue Ribbon of Excellence Award, underscore Sister Patricia’s exceptional leadership and dedication to academic excellence. Greg Farno, Chancellor of Education at the Archdiocese of Baltimore, expressed deep gratitude for Sister Patricia’s commitment to upholding both Catholic identity and academic standards, qualities that are sure to resonate across the school system.
In addition to her role at NDP, Sister Patricia McCarron has been an active participant in various committees and boards, including the Internal Review Board of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and the Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland Board of Governors. Her reputation as a compelling speaker on Catholic topics has earned her national and local recognition, including prestigious awards such as the National Catholic Educational Association’s Educational Excellence Award and The Daily Record’s Circle of Excellence recognition.
As Dr. Donna Hargens concludes her tenure as superintendent, she leaves behind a legacy of educational excellence and resilience. Through her leadership, five Archdiocesan schools received the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Award, a testament to her unwavering commitment to raising the bar for non-public schools nationwide. Dr. Hargens steered local Catholic schools through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring their continued success and recognition through distinguished accreditations like Cognia.
In the wake of Dr. Hargens’ retirement, the appointment of Sister Patricia McCarron brings a fresh perspective and renewed energy to Baltimore’s Catholic school system. With a strong foundation built on academic prowess, spiritual growth, and unwavering dedication to student success, Sister Patricia is poised to lead the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s educational institutions to new heights of excellence and distinction. Her vision and passion for Catholic education promise a bright future for students, families, and educators alike.
