METUCHEN — The Board of Governors of Saint Joseph High School has elected Dr. Gregory Brandao as president of the school for the 2016-17 academic year.
A 1973 graduate of Catholic High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Brandao has worked closely with the Brothers of the Sacred Heart since 1977. He has served in a number of faculty and leadership positions at Brothers’ schools in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, including principal and director of development at his alma mater, Catholic High, according to the statement from Saint Joseph High.
He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary mathematics education from Louisiana State University, a Master of Education degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of New Orleans, a Master of Pastoral Studies degree from Loyola University in New Orleans and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of San Francisco.
He will assume his new role July 1.
“I am humbled and excited about the opportunity to join the Saint Joseph High School community,” Brandao said. “I look forward with great anticipation to serving in partnership with students and parents, faculty and staff, alumni and friends to advance the mission of Saint Joe’s and the charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.”
Brandao succeeds Lawrence Walsh, who completes 10 years as president. Walsh was instrumental in ushering in the school’s first major capital campaign, “Building for the Next Century,” and raising more than $7.25 million to construct new facilities, including a gymnasium, a state-of-the-art science wing and library/media center, a memorial garden, performing stage and several classrooms, according to information provided by the school.
“We are exceedingly grateful to Larry Walsh for his outstanding service to the Saint Joseph High School community,” said Lou Garlatti Jr., chairman of the Board of Governors. “Larry’s career has spanned four decades, including more than two decades as an English teacher, as well as 16 years in leadership roles, six as principal and 10 as president. Larry’s legacy as an alumnus, teacher and leader will forever be intertwined with the legacy of Saint Joseph High School and the success of our students. Through his leadership, Larry has impacted the lives of more than 3,000 young men.”
Walsh also led the Falcon Field Capital Campaign, raising more than $1.5 million for a state-of-the-art synthetic turf field and surrounding track.
“Larry has indeed left a lasting mark on our school that future generations of students will enjoy,” Garlatti said.
Principal Justin Fleetwood also announced that Anne Rivera will join the Saint Joseph faculty as dean of studies for the 2016-17 school year. Rivera served as an admissions counselor at Loyola University in New Orleans and as a guidance counselor and then academic assistant principal at Brother Martin High School, New Orleans.
Miguel Cabrita, who has served as dean of students for the past six years, will continue his present leadership role.