Q. Where have you worked before Notre Dame?

A.  For many years I worked in the medical device industry, promoting new technologies for surgical procedures to surgeons and interventional radiologists. Prior to that, I worked in enrollment management at St. Norbert College for four years. Recently, I served for four years as president at my high school alma mater, St. Mary’s Springs Academy in Fond du Lac.

Q. What brought you to NDA?

A.  Mr. Bob Pauly has been a great inspiration for me as I succeed him as president of Notre Dame Academy. Bob has told me many times over the years that NDA is the best Catholic school in the USA. When I visited NDA on January 7, I was convinced by the students, faculty and staff that Bob was telling the truth. NDA clearly distinguishes itself as special and unique even among other excellent Catholic schools. I am thrilled with the chance to lead and serve NDA.

Q. Where did you go to school?

A.  I was a very lucky kid growing up in Fond du Lac. Our old house was just two blocks from St. Joe’s Church as well as Second Street Playground where I learned many life lessons. My parents, Frank and Ginny Shaw, made all the sacrifices to send my three brothers, sister and me through St. Joseph’s Grade School, St. Mary’s Springs Academy and St. Norbert College. I also received a master’s degree from the University of Notre Dame.

Q.  Do you have any hobbies/passions?

A.  I enjoy all sports, reading, writing, volunteering, running and cycling. In my healthy knee days, I ran many marathons. I also have two 14-year old dachshunds (Rocket and Harvey) who keep me amused.

Q.  What do you most look forward to about working at NDA?

A.  I look forward to the opportunity to work together with Dr. Ravizza, Mr. Masarik and the entire faculty and staff to continue the tradition of excellent Catholic education at Notre Dame Academy. The welcoming atmosphere and the commitment of the NDA community is most attractive to me.

Q. What do you like about being a president?

A.  I am passionate about leading, serving and developing a distinctive identity for NDA in my role as president. I want to set NDA apart from all other schools. In my view, our students’ relationship with God, others and the world, as well as the ability to critique through the lens of the Catholic faith are key to NDA’s unique character and brand. I am committed to spreading the good news about the value of a Notre Dame education.

Q.  What do you like about working at a Catholic school?

A.  Working in a Catholic school such as Notre Dame allows myself and all of us on staff to influence the direction of young lives. I strongly believe that student experiences here and now will at some point in time make for a positive difference in the world. We lay the foundation for good and kindness through our students’ Christ-centered education. I take heart in the fact that the hallmark of a Notre Dame education is Catholic formation. The values taught here permeate the academic curriculum and this is a triumph for all of us.

Q. What do you think will be the biggest challenges of working at NDA?

A.  The challenge of Catholic schools everywhere is operational vitality. Continued efforts to grow enrollment and finding new funding resources will be a major focus. My goal is for Notre Dame to always be expanding as a school of excellence. Establishing and rewarding high standards is crucial. Understanding our educational marketplace and outshining our competition is key. We want Notre Dame to be, not just an educational choice, but the best educational choice for Green Bay area families. Our value should be known and executed each and every day in all we do. Strong Catholic identity, financial stability, highest quality academics, effective marketing and communications, strategic enrollment management and a vibrant student life are in my vision for Notre Dame Academy.