Meet Our Faculty and Staff

List of 81 items.

• Fr. John Agnew

  Chaplain
  Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Fr. John Agnew was ordained in 1990 and served as a university residence Chaplain in Spain at the University of Navarre. Upon returning to the states, he served as Chaplain for The Heights School from 1992 - 1996. Fr. Agnew spent three years at Montrose School and seven years at The Willows Academy before moving to New York City in 2007. He is excited about returning to the Washington, D.C. area and is very much looking forward to serving the families, faculty, and students of Oakcrest.
  
  

• Carolina Agostini

  Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management, Spanish
  Mrs. Agostini (Giorgina '15) is known in our Oakcrest community for the beautiful work she has done, and continues to do, in Admissions since 2014. Mrs. Agostini holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Marymount University, is certified with the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, and has taken thirty graduate credits from the University of Virginia’s School of Education. With eleven years teaching experience, four of which have been in Spanish, Carolina continues as a member of the Foreign Languages department.  As a native Spanish speaker, Carolina brings with her a passion for other cultures that will enrich her classroom.
  
  

• Joana Allen

  Master Teacher - Theology, Class Dean
  Mrs. Allen (Mia ‘13, Rosemary ‘16, Grace ‘18, and Nina ‘20) is originally from Lisbon, Portugal where she studied at the Escola de Reabilitacao de Alcoitao. She has worked as an Occupational Therapist in school systems throughout Portugal, England and the United States. She collaborated with Allyson Adrian to develop and write the new Guan Series, Learning Spanish with Francois Guan and Charlotte Mason, Vol I & II (Cherrydale Press). Prior to joining the Oakcrest faculty in 2013, Mrs. Allen homeschooled her children. 
  
  

• Alix Baldwin

  Instrumental Director
  Mrs. Baldwin is an accomplished musician, composer, and arranger, as well as an experienced instructor. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Composition from George Mason University and was named GMU’s Most Outstanding Musician of 1997. While studying at GMU, she sat as Principal Chair flute and Principal Chair harp in both Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Band. She was awarded the Brannen-Cooper Commission in 1999, the National Flute Association Commission of 2009, and the Blessing Foundation Commission for the NFA in 2012. Alix has been a harpist, flutist, composer and arranger for the First Light Ensemble since 2009 and for the Columbia Flute Choir since 1995. She was named the 2019 Scottish Harp Society of America's US National Champion. Before joining the Oakcrest faculty in 2014, Mrs. Baldwin worked as both a private lesson instructor and a sectional coach in the Fairfax County Public Schools for over 20 years. When asked what she enjoys about teaching at Oakcrest, she responded, “I love the ability to teach not just the notes, but the history and meaning behind the music; and I love the atmosphere of joy and kindness that prevails at Oakcrest!”
  
  

• Kayleen Baldwin

  Visual Arts
  Mrs. Baldwin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from the Franciscan University of Steubenville and comes to Oakcrest with several years of teaching experience. She was a teacher at Holy Family Academy in Manassas as well as at St. Ambrose School in Annandale. She teaches art, piano and voice as a private instructor, is a commissioned artist, and serves as the cantor at All Saints Catholic Church in Manassas.
  
  

• Michael J. Barvick

  Director of Institutional Advancement
  Mr. Barvick (Edith ‘19, Franny ‘22, Irene '25, Lulu '28, and Winnie '30) joined Oakcrest as the Director of Institutional Advancement in September of 2016. He has broad experience in the world of advancement and during his career has helped build programs in support of education, underserved communities and public policy. Before coming to Oakcrest, he served for six years as the Director of Major and Planned Giving at The Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C. Prior to that he had served as the Executive Director of The Youth Leadership Foundation. Mr. Barvick has a particular expertise in the area of planned giving and has trained numerous non-profits organizations on how to build and sustain a successful planned giving program. He is also the CEO of Alexis Consulting, which provides non-profits assistance in management and fundraising strategies. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Philosophy from the University of Dallas.
  
  

• Laura Bell

  Staff Assistant
  Mrs. Bell (Kathryn '12) holds a B.S. in Secondary Education and English from Louisiana State University and a Masters in Education Administration from the University of Scranton where she received the Outstanding Graduate Award. She enjoys having mentored at Oakcrest for over 10 years.
  
  

• Sara Bendeck

  Spanish, Director of International Programs
  Mrs. Bendeck (Mariana '23, Rocio '27, and Pili '30) earned a Master in Marriage and Family from the University of Navarre in Pamplona, Spain and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the Catholic University of Honduras. An experienced Spanish teacher, Mrs. Bendeck has served as the Spanish Curriculum Specialist, Spanish Teacher, and Classroom Head Teacher for Georgetown Hill Early School.
  
  

• Elizabeth Bergin

  Parent Engagement Coordinator
  Mrs. Bergin (Claire ’30) received her Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Columbia University and her Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Stanford University. Throughout the past two decades she has worked in the Vatican Museums for the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museum as a liaison for international benefactors, and served both as an account manager in the Trusts, Estates & Appraisals Department and as a specialist in the Old Masters Department at Christie’s Auction House in New York City. Mrs. Bergin also brings to Oakcrest her extensive volunteer experience supporting and spearheading various programs at the Yuma Center in Washington, D.C.
  
  

• Cynthia Bertolini

  Associate Head of School, Mathematics
  Mrs. Bertolini (Luisa '20) holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from George Mason University, a Master of Arts in International Economics and European Studies from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, and a Bachelor of Science in Languages and Linguistics from Georgetown University. Mrs. Bertolini joined the Oakcrest staff in 2016 where she oversaw increased development and engagement in the admissions program. In addition to her work as Associate Head of School, she also teaches Middle School mathematics. 
  
  

• Victoria Bigliano

  Visual Arts, Interior Design - Permanent Campus
  Ms. Bigliano has pioneered the AP Art History class at Oakcrest. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, she moved to Virginia after a strong career in interior design, primarily with commercial and civic spaces. Her interest and professional development in the decorative arts and art history led her to Winterthur Museum in Wilmington, Delaware where she graduated from their Certificate Program in Connoisseurship. In addition to teaching, Ms. Bigliano is overseeing all aspects of the interior design of the permanent campus and is the lead designer of the chapel.
  
  

• Virginia Boles

  History, Class Dean
  Ms. Boles attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts summa cum laude in Greek and Latin, and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Her senior thesis examined the program of education for an orator in ancient Rome. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in American History and Government from Ashland University.  Prior to joining the Oakcrest faculty in 2014, Ms. Boles worked as a Latin Teacher at The Geneva School of Manhattan and a Latin curriculum writer for the South Bronx Classical Charter School. A graduate of a classical, liberal arts high school in her hometown of Pasadena, California, Ms. Boles' liberal arts background allows her classes to be interdisciplinary.  In her Ancient and American History classes, she endeavors to help her students understand the underpinnings of free, democratic societies, and to express their ideas cogently in writing and speech. 
  
  

• Michele Bulger

  Registrar
  Ms. Bulger began working at Oakcrest in 2006. Her responsibilities include developing and managing the schedule, maintaining academic records, and providing official transcripts for our students. She has been coaching lacrosse at Oakcrest since the program was started. Ms. Bulger holds a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Franklin & Marshall College.

  
  

• Matthew Buonocore

  Chief Financial Officer
  As CFO, Mr. Buonocore is responsible for overseeing all financial, human resource, facility, technology, risk management, transportation, construction, safety and other administrative operations for Oakcrest. He brings more than 25 years of experience to the school, with an expertise in managing both financial and operational activities for non-profit organizations. Mr. Buonocore previously served as the Director of Administration for two large private schools located in Northern Virginia. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Global Management Accountant. He enjoys spending time with his family, coaching his sons' baseball teams, and singing in the halls of our beautiful Vienna campus.
  
  

• Anna Cipollone '17

  English, Class Dean
  Ms. Cipollone earned a Bachelor of Arts and Science from Georgetown University with a major in English and a minor in Art History. She was one of twenty students selected for a program in Florence, Italy, where she studied Italian literature, language and culture. Ms. Cipollone completed an intensive Senior Capstone seminar course on Literature of the Global South.
  
  

• Catherine Courtney

  Upper School Director, Librarian
  Ms. Catherine Courtney joined Oakcrest in 2018 as the Librarian. For the last four years she has also served as the Director of Academic Advising, guiding students in their paths to graduation. She has also taught Middle School Latin and Media and Journalism. Ms. Courtney received a Bachelor of Arts in Classics from the University of Virginia and a Master’s in Library Science from the University of Maryland. She has experience working in corporate, public, and school libraries as well as academic advising at George Mason University. 
  
  

• Mike Craven

  Bus Driver
  Mr. Craven joined Oakcrest in 2015.  Mike is a third generation Washingtonian and before joining Oakcrest was in management at John Deere Landscapes and was an integrated pest management specialist.  Mike and his wife Natalie enjoy spending time with their son and his family in Cincinnati, OH.  They have two grandchildren.
  
  

• Bridget Crnkovich

  History 
  Ms. Crnkovich attended Christendom College where she earned a Bachelor of Arts summa cum laude in history with a double minor in classics and philosophy. She was awarded the Warren Carroll History Thesis Award given to the best senior thesis in the history department for her thesis titled, "Give Me That Old Time Religion: The Movements Behind Evangelical Religion in the Antebellum and Postbellum South."
  
  

• Maritere (Gramatges '91) Crum

  Alumnae Relations Coordinator
  Mrs. Crum (Ellie '30) graduated from George Mason University in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Writing. She and her husband, Richard, have 8 children ranging in ages from 26 to 8 and 2 grandchildren born in 2021 and 3 more on the way for 2022/2023. She currently homeschools her youngest daughter and her younger boys attend The Heights. Over the last 27 years, they have lived in Virginia, Connecticut and Florida, and returned home 3 years ago, moving around the corner from Oakcrest. She is very passionate about the pro-life movement and has served on the Board of the Paul Stefan Home in Orange, VA and as a volunteer at A Woman’s Choice in Herndon, VA. Mrs. Crum loves being creative, baking, reading, writing, planning events and spending as much time as possible at the beach.
  
  

• Heather DeLisle

  Master Teacher - Science and Technology
  Mrs. DeLisle holds a Master in Education in Secondary Education from Providence College and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Religious Studies from Connecticut College. She joined the Oakcrest faculty in 2011. Read more about her here. 
  
  

• Jessica DeVera 

  Director of College Counseling

  Mrs. DeVera has five years of experience in college admissions and an additional four years of experience in private school college counseling. She brings her professional expertise, support of the Oakcrest mission and love of working with students to our school. Mrs. DeVera earned a Master of Science in Organizational Psychology from the University of Hartford and a Bachelor of Arts cum laude in Communications, Public Relations and Journalism from Marist College.        
  
  

• Laurie Duncan

  Middle School Director, Latin 
  Ms. Duncan holds a Masters of Education and a Bachelors of Arts in Classics from the University of Virginia and has nineteen years of teaching experience within private all-girls education. In addition, she was an instructor at the Virginia Summer Governor's School Latin Academy, participated and taught in various spoken Latin programs, hosted various Classical summer camps, and guided tours to Italy for middle and high school students. Ms. Duncan has taught Ancient Greek, Middle School and Upper School Latin, as well as Ancient and Medieval History.
  
  

• Teresa Fernandez Ulloa

  Spanish
  Mrs. Fernandez-Ulloa received an Master of Arts in Spanish Language from Universidad Pontificia Salamanca, Spain, and a Law Degree from Universidad de Navarra. She has taught at George Washington University, and is well-read and knowledgeable on the most significant methodologies of language teaching (such as Task-Based Language Teaching and the Communicative Approach). She has worked alongside Dr. María de la Fuente, who is renowned in the field of Spanish language teaching, and even helped with Dr. de la Fuentes’s textbook. She has also worked alongside students in Hispanic community outreach and is dedicated to fostering and spreading the love of all things Spanish. Teresa is an avid reader and history enthusiast, and was born in Orense, Spain.
  
  

• Heather Finkler

  Mathematics

  Ms. Finkler studied for a Master of Secondary Education at George Washington University and received her Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Penn State University. She has experience teaching mathematics and science. Ms. Finkler's teaching philosophy includes the goal of helping students develop a richer understanding of mathematics by studying its vocabulary, language, and properties and by using real-life models.
  
  

• Miria Fisher

  Physical Education, Athletic Trainer
  

  Mrs. Fisher is a graduate of Ithaca College with a degree in Athletic Training. She has always had a passion for incorporating regular exercise into her daily routine to contribute to the mind, body, and spirit aspects of a healthy human. She has worked as the Oakcrest Athletic Trainer for two years managing, preventing, and caring for sports injuries. Her background as a previous collegiate swimmer led her to continue working with swimmers by becoming the Assistant Swim Team coach for the Oakcrest Chargers. She enjoys teaching young women to develop a strong character, faith, and veritas in athletics. Physical Education is all about moving the body, learning about the many benefits of exercise, gaining general sports skills, being a part of a team, improving muscular coordination, and enjoying the blessings gifted to us by God.
  
  

• Christina Friddle

  Science, Class Dean
  Mrs. Friddle (Maura '19, Jacqueline '22 and Suzie '25) has over fifteen years of teaching experience in the classroom. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, and a Professional Teaching Certificate in Education from the National University of Ireland, Galway. She holds a National Certificate for STEM Teaching from the National Institute for STEM Education. She has completed an intensive course in "Science Inquiry in the Classroom," from the Maryland State Department of Education. Mrs. Friddle is very active in professional development related to teaching strategies that enable teachers to have a much larger impact on student learning with more meaningful results and setting up students for success as lifelong learners. She is a member of the National Science Teachers Association.
  
  

• Theresa Giuntini

  Assistant Director of Admissions

  Mrs. Giuntini (Mary Angela (Giuntini ‘16) Zuccaro, Claire ‘18) holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Utica College, where she served as an adjunct faculty member, and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She became a board certified geriatric specialist in 2017 and joins Oakcrest’s Admissions Office after a long career in physical therapy and health care operations management and sales.
  
  

• Jennifer Gold

  Science
  Ms. Gold received her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science from the Glasgow Caledonian University, as well as her Masters in Education, Catholic Teacher’s Certificate in Religious Education, and Postgraduate Diploma in Secondary Education from the University of Glasgow. She has experience teaching high school biology and is passionate about leading, motivating, and supporting learners. Outside of teaching, Ms. Gold enjoys rock climbing and travel.
  
  

• Luz Gonzalez

  Mathematics
  Ms. Gonzalez earned a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from Florida International University and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from The Catholic University of Nicaragua. She dedicated many years of her professional career as an engineer and also has experience teaching Mathematics. She has a deep love for the Oakcrest mission.
  
  

• Caroline Heeter '97

  Upper School Athletic Director
  Since joining the staff in 2002, Ms. Heeter has been instrumental in the expansion of Oakcrest’s athletic program and achievements. As a graduate of Oakcrest, Ms. Heeter enjoys the unique opportunity of passing on traditions from her years as a student, as well as helping to create new ones. Caroline earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Dallas and a Master of Science in Athletic Administration from Ohio University.
  
  

• Jeannie Herrick

  Middle School Director of Mentoring, School Nurse
  Mrs. Herrick (Jackie '13, Kathryn '18) received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Mary Washington and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from George Mason University. Jeannie brings 30 years of holistic nursing care experience to the Mentoring Program at Oakcrest. She is passionate about helping young women grow in virtue and achieve their fullest potential. Jeannie and her husband, Curt, are the parents of five children.
  
  

• Shirley Howe

  Spanish
  Mrs. Howe earned her Masters in Applied Linguistics from the University of Birmingham in England, her postgraduate certificate in Education from the University of York in England, and her Bachelor of Arts in French Studies from the University of London’s British Institute of Paris. Prior to her undergraduate degree she lived in Spain for a year where she successfully completed a diploma in Spanish language at Universidad de Alicante. For the past 15 years, she has applied research-based linguistic knowledge to her teaching methodologies to enhance and accelerate the learning of her students.
  
  

• Kat Hussmann, Ph.D.

  Science, Class Dean
  

  Dr. Hussmann holds a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. She has done postdoctoral research and has had a number of experiences teaching both college and younger students. She has completed an NIH intensive course called “Scientists Teaching Science,” and has coauthored many peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Hussmann is dedicated to helping high school students understand and analyze scientific literature. She joined Oakcrest as a full-time faculty member in 2015. Dr. Hussmann received the Virginia Science Olympiad (VASO) Committee's 2019 Coach of the Year Award. 

  
  

• Jessica Irish

  Choral Director
  Mrs. Irish holds a Master of Music Education degree with a concentration in Choral Conducting from Shenandoah University Conservatory and her Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She brings 25 years of experience in music and choral instruction, performance, and church music leadership to Oakcrest. Mrs. Irish has served as the Choral Director at various Fairfax County Public Schools and was a faculty member at George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College. She is an active professional soprano, having performed with the region's finest music organizations including the choir of the Basilica of the National Shrine, Washington National Cathedral, various recording projects, and most recently as a soloist with the Fairfax Choral Society. She has served as Worship Arts Chairperson for the Virginia Chapter of the American Choral Directors Association, and is Past President of Fairfax County Choral Directors Association. Her choirs have performed by invitation for the Governor of Virginia, and at Strathmore and the Kennedy Center. Her husband and children are also musical, and together their family enjoys participating regularly in the music ministry at their church.
  
  

• Matilda “Bunmi” Johnson, Ph.D.

  Science, Class Dean

  Prior to coming to Oakcrest, Dr. Johnson (Clare '26, Ann Marie '29) was a tenured faculty at Bethune-Cookman University, FL. specializing in nutrition and public health. Dr. Johnson comes with the experience and expertise in education and community engagement that can be applied to tasks of academic support and advance the mission of Oakcrest School. She earned her Undergraduate Degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, her Masters in Nutrition and Food Sciences from Texas Woman’s University, Master of Public Health from Jackson State University, and her Ph.D. in Environmental Science from the University of South Africa.
  
  

• Leslie Kanuch

  Science, Class Dean
  Mrs. Kanuch spent eight years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps before joining the Oakcrest faculty in 2018. She received her Master of Science in Strategic Intelligence from the National Intelligence University and studied Latin through a summer program at The Catholic University of America. She graduated from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Physics, a Bachelor of Science in English, and a minor in Russian language and literature. She has extensive overseas experience, including deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Bahrain and a study abroad program in Russia, and has worked directly with multiple federal agencies and senior-level Department of Defense and Department of State officials throughout her military career. Mrs. Kanuch is supremely grateful to be a part of the Oakcrest family and loves sharing her passion for learning and service with her students. Physics, she always tells her classes, is a pathway to God because it enables us to enter more deeply into the wonder of His creation.
  
  

• Lisa Kenna

  Master Teacher - English
  As an educator, Mrs. Kenna strives to transmit her love of the liberal arts and the wisdom of the Great Books to each of her students. She joined the Oakcrest faculty in 2011, and since then has cultivated a love of literature and academia, creating the Senior Thesis program and spearheading the founding of the National English Honor Society. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the Thomas More College of Liberal Arts. She earned both a Master of Arts of English and a Master of Arts of Humanities from the University of Dallas, and completed a Post-Baccalaureate Program in Education there as well. Lisa holds a Commonwealth of Virginia Postgraduate Professional License for English Teachers. She has participated in the Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture Teacher’s Academy for six years and has spoken at the National Endowment for the Humanities conference on teaching Dante. Mrs. Kenna was selected as one of sixteen participants for the NEH Summer Seminar Scholar program: "Dante’s Inferno: Influence, Adaptation, and Appropriation." Most recently, she was accepted to the National Endowment for the Humanities 2021 Summer Institute on Melville’s “Moby-Dick and the World of Whaling in the Digital Age.” 
  
  

• Christie Keuchel

  Head of School 
  Mrs. Christie Keuchel holds a Master of Science in Educational Administration from St. John Fisher University in Rochester, New York and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Secondary Education from Suffolk University in Boston, Massachusetts. With more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, mentor, and administrator, Mrs. Christie Keuchel returns to the Oakcrest community as Head of School. From 2007 to 2020, Mrs. Keuchel served in various roles at Oakcrest from Associate Head of School for Students, Dean of Students, Director of Upper School, Director of Middle School, and Theology teacher. Most recently, Mrs. Keuchel supported a classical liberal arts school in the Catholic tradition in her hometown of Rochester, New York, also leading a capital campaign for a non-profit in Northern Virginia.
  
  

• Christina Kilmer '16

  Theology
  

  Ms. Kilmer graduated from Oakcrest in 2016, where she played soccer and ran cross country and track. She has a Bachelor's degree in History and a minor in Spanish from the University of Dallas. Ms. Kilmer served as a seventh and eighth grade mentor and character education teacher at Metro Achievement Center in Chicago during the summer of 2019. From 2020 to 2022, she worked at a conference center in New York City as part of a Hospitality Management program where she took classes in philosophy as well and helped with the Avenue Leadership Program in her free time. Ms. Kilmer also was the director of the hospitality internship programs at Arnold Hall Conference Center. She then moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to help develop high school leadership programs for girls at a new Opus Dei center, Petawa, that opened in March of 2023, while working full time in finance and administrative work. Ms. Kilmer is excited to return to her alma mater teaching middle school theology, as well as to help coach middle school cross country.
  
  

• Jennifer Kilmer

  Master Teacher - Mathematics
  

  Mrs. Kilmer (Christina '16, Michelle '18, Julie '19 and Rosie '25) earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Northwestern University, and taught at Oakcrest from 1993 to 1997, teaching math and coaching soccer, basketball and softball while serving as the athletic director. She has also taught at The Willows Academy in Chicago, Montrose School in Boston, and Portsmouth Abbey in Rhode Island. After raising her 11 children, Mrs. Kilmer returned to teach at Oakcrest in 2014.
  
  

• Dawn Kuker

  Liturgical Music 
  Mrs. Kuker is a professional singer in the Northern Virginia area, serving as cantor at St John the Beloved in McLean, St. James in Falls Church, and others. She has also directed the Beloved (Liturgical) Choir at St. John’s for youth in grades 3-8, and directed both the Treble and Middle School Choirs at St. John the Beloved Academy. She has expertise singing in early sacred music ensembles, including Holy Family Schola Cantorum under the direction of Scott Turkington, and in the Choirs at St John the Beloved and Cathedral of St. Thomas More. She has extensive vocal training, and she shares her knowledge of vocal pedagogy and enthusiasm for singing with her students. Mrs. Kuker is trained in the Ward Method of Music Education at Catholic University of America. Her goal is “to foster beauty in the sacred liturgy through the joy of singing.
  
  

• Libby Lenseigne

  Afternoon Receptionist 
  

  Mrs. Libby Lenseigne (Simonne ’22) received her Bachelor of Science in Economics from George Mason University and her Master of Liberal Arts from St. Thomas University. She has lived in six countries and traveled to over 60 countries. As a former special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, she investigated white collar crime and international terrorism cases. Mrs. Lenseigne also has a background in sales and marketing. Having volunteered extensively, she has assisted refugees from various countries while living abroad and in the states, as well as volunteered for political campaigns.
  
  

• Marty Lerner

  Director of Communications and Events, Director of Summer Programs
  Mrs. Lerner (Alexa '21) has over 25 years of communications experience having worked for Fortune 500 brands such as Staples, Hershey's Chocolate, Capital One Bank, Heinz USA, PNC Bank, Claritin and GEICO.  Mrs. Lerner's events expertise has aided local and national non-profit organizations with raising millions of dollars to advance Catholic education, benefit breast cancer research, and fight childhood obesity.  Mrs. Lerner graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs from the University of Mary Washington. 
  
  

• Cynthia Lim

  Assistant to the Middle and Upper School Directors
  

  Mrs. Cynthia Lim was born and raised in the Philippines. She received a Doctor of Medicine degree from Far Eastern University School of Medicine, Manila, Philippines and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines. She worked for two years in Radiology at the Far Eastern Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan and for two years in Pathology at the Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan. After this she switched to full- time motherhood, raising four children. Before coming to Oakcrest, she worked for ten years as the Assistant to the High School Principal at Morrison Christian Academy, Taichung, Taiwan.

   

• Miriam Martin

  English
  Mrs. Martin grew up in Minnesota and spent her early years training in violin, ballet, and figure skating. She holds an B.A. in English cum laude from Harvard University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She earned magna cum laude distinction on her thesis titled “Midwives and Women’s Spirituality in Medieval England and France.” In 2017, Mrs. Martin was awarded the Henry Russell Shaw Traveling Fellowship. In addition to diving into the minute details of English grammar, syntax, and literature, she also enjoys learning other languages, and has spent time studying in France and Italy.
  
  

• Aimee Maturi

  History, Class Dean
  

  Mrs. Maturi has nine years of experience in teaching history to both middle and upper school students.  Prior to joining Oakcrest, she taught at Lumen Christi Catholic School in Jackson, Mississippi and Cardinal Newman School in Columbia, South Carolina. Mrs. Maturi earned a Master in Teaching Secondary Social Studies Education magna cum laude and a Bachelor of Arts in History cum laude with a minor in Psychology and Cognate in Education from the University of South Carolina. She has been an AP Reader for the US History Exam for the past three years and taught a wide variety of courses ranging from AP US History and AP World History to AP Psychology and AP Microeconomics.
  
  

• Helena McGrath

  Latin
  Ms. McGrath earned her Bachelor of Arts in Classics cum laude from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas where she studied Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, as well as Classical and Modern Philosophy, earning a minor in Philosophy. She comes to Oakcrest with great enthusiasm for the Latin language, and years of experience teaching both middle school and high school Latin as a private tutor and homeschool instructor. Ms. McGrath enjoys reading and discussing classic literature as well as learning about foreign cultures and languages. Her favorite authors are Fyodor Dostoevsky and C.S. Lewis. Outside of academic life, she enjoys playing sports, especially soccer and strength training, and coaching the Middle School Cross Country team.
  
  

• Sarah McLean

  Academics Associate 

  Mrs. McLean graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design and English. She is the proud mother of three children, Clementine ’30, and two sons.
  
  

• Megan Meehan ’20

  English and Theatre 
  Ms. Meehan returns to Oakcrest to join the English and Theatre departments after receiving her Bachelor of Arts in both English Literature and Language Arts from Christendom College. While at Christendom, Ms. Meehan received a rich Liberal Arts education curated to emphasize 19th century American and British Literature and Shakespearean studies. She served as president and assistant director of the Christendom Players Theatrical Group. She was also frequently seen on the stage in a variety of roles including Shakespeare's Hermione in The Winter's Tale and Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing. Her musical theatre experience includes Marmee in Little Women, Mrs. Higgins in My Fair Lady, and Dolly Tate in Annie Get Your Gun.
  
  

• Mary Ann Messenger

  Theology, Upper School Director of Mentoring
  Mrs. Messenger graduated with her Master of Science summa cum laude in Business Management from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor of Science in Business, Finance, and Economics from Mount St. Mary’s University. After working in the public sector for a decade, she then spent the next two decades raising her children and homeschooling, also continuing her own coursework in Christian anthropology, the Cardinal Virtues, Metaphysics, and the Sacred Humanity of Jesus. Mrs. Messenger has completed a year-long course on John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, as well as a course of studies on Catholic Doctrine, in addition to teaching religious education at her parish and pre-cana and marriage prep with her husband. Mrs. Messenger brings with her years of wisdom in working with children and young people, as well as a passion for the mission of our school.
  
  

• Jean-Yves Milette

  Facilities Manager
  Mr. Millette (Jackie (Hojilla '15) Coutinho and Joan Margaret '29) has worked as an Operating Engineer at GWU, during which time he became a DC First Class Steam Engineer, and he was also part time Building Engineer at Yuma Study Center. He served as a senior maintenance technician at Catholic Charities for nine years and for the Missionaries of Charity for nine years
  
  

• Katherine Mineka

  Advancement Associate 
  Mrs. Katherine Mineka (Jane '29) received her Bachelor of Arts cum laude in Economics from Princeton University.  For several years after graduation, she worked in development for American Ballet Theatre and The Doe Fund, where she specialized in institutional giving by corporations and foundations.  In 2003, Mrs. Mineka graduated from Harvard Law School cum laude and then spent 16 years practicing law in Washington, DC with a focus on employee benefits and executive compensation.  She is excited to return to her first career as part of the Advancement team at Oakcrest.  
  
  

• Denise Mohler

  Front Office Manager 
  

  Mrs. Mohler (Emmy ’19, Thèrése ’21, Sally ’23, and Eva ’26) has been a member of the Oakcrest community for many years, having served on OPA in various capacities since 2019. She earned her Masters in accounting with a concentration in tax from George Washington University and her Bachelor of Science in accounting from Mount Saint Mary’s University. She has many years of experience working as a CPA in international tax and additionally has taught in various school settings. For the past 25 years, Mrs. Mohler has been raising her family and nurturing within her children a love of learning.
  
  

• Maggie Musacchio

  Learning Specialist 
  Ms. Musacchio has six years of experience in establishing special education programs in Catholic parochial schools for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  She holds a Master of Science summa cum laude in Modified and Comprehensive Special Education from the University of Tennessee.  Ms. Musacchio has continued her professional development through the Institute of Catholic Liberal Education and Aquinas College Center for Catholic Education in Nashville, Tennessee, and she was a 2021 Leonine Fellow.
  
  

• Kristin O'Malley Ricci, Ph.D.

  Master Teacher - Visual and Performing Arts, Theatre Director
  

  Dr. Ricci earned a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh in Theatre Arts and Performance Studies. In addition, she has a Master of Arts in Theatre Education from Catholic University and Bachelor of Arts in Drama from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Dr. Ricci has directed over twenty shows, acted in many others, has taught middle school in Virginia and Maryland. She sees the role of theatre as a participation in the beauty of God’s own creative act. 
  
  

• Audrey O'Neill

  Theology
  

  Mrs. Audrey O’Neill (Christina ‘07) joined Oakcrest in 2019 as a Middle School Theology teacher. In addition to being a trained Montessori teacher, Mrs. O’Neill has completed graduate course work in Theology and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Italian from Boston College. She has seventeen years of teaching experience, including teaching in the Montessori Atrium and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd classrooms. Mrs. O'Neill is fully bilingual in Spanish and English with proficiency and intermediate knowledge of Italian. 
  
  

• Suzanne Patrick

  Mathematics
  Mrs. Suzanne Patrick (Colette '28 and Cecilia '29) graduated magna cum laude from Princeton University with a degree in Classics. While at Princeton, she studied writing with author John McPhee and spoken Latin with the late Father Reginald Foster, then chief Latinist to the Pope. She has a law degree from the University of Virginia and worked for many years as a securities lawyer, including as Counsel to the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Mrs. Patrick has five children: two current Oakies and three graduates of The Heights School. She homeschooled for over 10 years, and is a freelance writer and piano teacher.
  
  

• Stephanie Passero

  English, Class Dean
  Ms. Stephanie Passero holds a Master of Arts in English literature from Northumbria University in Newcastle, England and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Georgia State University. She began her teaching career as an adjunct professor at Quincy College in Boston, before moving to Virginia where she has been teaching English for the past ten years. She is always eager to talk about books for great lengths of time—both in and out of the classroom.
  
  

• María Pérez Ibáñez

  Theology, Class Dean
  Ms. Pérez earned her bachelor’s degree in literature and creative writing with a diploma in contemporary thought. She brings a passion for reading, writing, and teaching to Oakcrest. Ms. Pérez comes from the University of Navarre where she worked in admissions and she brings a strong theatre background both acting and serving as assistant director.
  
  

• Monica Pompei

  Latin, Spanish
  

  Ms. Pompei earned a Bachelor of Arts from George Mason University and has been a member of the Oakcrest faculty since 2000. Her 15 years of positive Catholic education, professional development, and energetic spirit influence Ms. Pompei's teaching style, making her well-loved by generations of Oakcrest students. She particularly enjoys the familial atmosphere at Oakcrest, citing the countless opportunities to get to know the students, parents, faculty and staff personally.
  
  

• Roger Porres

  Project Manager
  Mr. Porres joined Oakcrest in the summer of 2017. He is a graduate of the University of Dallas with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature.
  
  

• Laura Porterfield

  Business Office Associate 
  Mrs. Porterfield (Abigail ’17) earned her Masters of Business Administration with a focus on Public Policy from George Washington University and her Bachelor of Science in Business and Finance from Mount Saint Mary’s University. Throughout her career, she has spent more than a decade supporting the government budget and financial management of multiple research and development programs, including that of the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Energy.
  
  

• Jennifer Pruskowski

  PE Teacher and Director of Strength and Conditioning
  Mrs. Jennifer Pruskowski holds a Bachelor of Exercise Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh. She is a certified strength and conditioning specialist with the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) and a personal trainer. She has been teaching physical education and coaching varsity soccer at Oakcrest since 2010. As Director of Strength and Conditioning, she created and developed the strength and conditioning program at Oakcrest, oversaw the design of the new fitness center, teaches the strength and conditioning class, and trains our student athletes to improve their athletic performance. Coach Pruskowski’s passion is inspiring youth to develop a love for fitness and exercise, and challenging them to push themselves on and off the field. Her unique role spans teaching in the classroom, on the field, and in the weight room, enabling a deeper connection with students. Witnessing their success in academics, sports, and personal growth is immensely rewarding. Her favorite aspect is challenging them across domains, observing their perseverance, and seeing them appreciate the fruits of their hard work.
  
  

• Erin Quineche

  Spanish
  Mrs. Erin Quineche earned her M.A.T. in Language Education from the University of South Carolina and her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Furman University, where she had the opportunity to study Spanish and pre-Columbian studies at Universidad Internacional in Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico. In 2011, her research study titled “Practice or Preparation: Does the type of homework assignment affect student achievement in the foreign language classroom?” was presented at the South Carolina Foreign Language Teachers Association. With more than a decade of teaching experience in public, Catholic, and private schools, Mrs. Quineche has also traveled extensively professionally, as an interpreter in Peru and also with students overseas to Spain, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. She has sponsored Spanish and multicultural clubs and their service projects, including the Pulsera Project. Mrs. Quineche is a member of the American Council of Teaching Foreign Languages.
  
  

• Blanca Reilly

  Oakcrest Parent Association Parent Liaison 
  Mrs. Reilly was born in Spain. She joined Oakcrest in August 2018. She holds a Master of Arts in Theology and Philosophy from Universitaria Aliseda and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Universidad Complutense. In Madrid she was a pharmacist and later taught Chemistry at Orvalle High School and Biology at Montealto High School. Mrs. Reilly was a contributing editor for a Spanish family life magazine and worked as a freelance/consultant Spanish translator and in an NGO overseeing women's issues at the United Nations. She translated an online graduate program in Marriage, Education, and Family, offered at the international University of Cataluña. She has been receiving doctrinal and spiritual formation over the past 40 years and has come to love the passing of it all to women of all ages. She is in the midst of earning her Master of Science in Psychology at Divine Mercy University, which offers concentrations in marriage, family life, and leadership. Mrs. Reilly is the mother of Catherine ’16 and Teresa ’23.
  
  

• Katie Robertson

  Mathematics
  Mrs. Robertson earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Brigham Young University. She joins Oakcrest with more than 20 years of experience teaching many subjects, specializing in math and science. Most recently, Mrs. Robertson worked as a Math Interventionist in both Fairfax County Public Schools and Loudoun County Public Schools, alongside teaching as a private tutor primarily in Algebra, Geometry, and Chemistry. 
  
  

• Elizabeth Rolwes

  Dean of Students
  Mrs. Rolwes (Patricia '23) graduated summa cum laude from the University of Massachusetts with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She has many years of experience working with young women and has directed a summer camp for girls for the past five years. She is a Board Member and National Speaker for the International Federation of Family Development (IFFD), whose mission is to support families through programs such as Family Enrichment. Mrs. Rolwes served on the inaugural board and head of the Mission Committee for Holy Cross Academy, a multi-parish collaborative school model in St. Louis, Missouri.
  
  

• Paula Rondon-Burgos

  Master Teacher - Latin, Class Dean
  Ms. Rondon has a Master of Arts of Teaching in Latin and the Classical Humanities (UMass Amherst) and a Bachelor of Arts in Classics – Latin (University of Virginia). She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Classics and Ancient History (Durham University). Ms. Rondon is fascinated by the Ancient Romans (especially Cicero!) and loves spending time with students talking about Latin. She has been teaching since 2009 in a variety of settings, including rural Ethiopia where she served as a lay missionary with the Salesians of Don Bosco.

   

• Andie Salerno

  History, Student Life Associate, Class Dean
  Mrs. Salerno earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and a Bachelor of Arts in History and an Instruction for Secondary Education with a concentration in History and Social Studies from George Mason University. Mrs. Salerno is also a licensed teacher through the Virginia Department of Education. After ten years in the finance sector, Mrs. Salerno chose to pursue her passion to share her love of history in the classroom. She spent four years teaching history and government at Oakcrest. She then took time to be home with her two young children and returned to assist in Student Life and to teach History. Andie resides in Vienna with her husband Adam, and her two children Tucker and Veronica.
  
  

• Holly Salls

  Theology, Chapel Coordinator
  Ms. Salls earned a Master of Arts in Philosophy of Education, concentration in Character Education from the University of Navarra, Spain and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She has authored a book entitled Character Education: Transforming Values into Virtue. Prior to joining the Oakcrest faculty in 2007, Ms. Salls taught at The Willows Academy for 10 years and served as their Assistant Head of School for 10 years. During her years in Chicago Ms. Salls edited a character education newsletter, Tidbits for Parents, in which she encouraged parents to be aware of the opportunities for growth in virtue family life provides. She also developed an after school program for refugee children, Southeast Asian Children’s Association, and supervised tutors from The Willows Academy. Since coming to Oakcrest Ms. Salls has nurtured the Student Government, helped to create the character development program, instituted the Service Initiatives Program and coordinated club offerings.

   

• Ana Rose Soley

  Mathematics, Science, Class Dean
  Mrs. Soley earned a Master in Secondary Science in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Italian from the University of Virginia. She has over eight years of experience as a science teacher and is skilled in integrating technology in creative lesson plans, engaging students, and collaborating with teams on design and instruction. In addition to her work in the classroom, she has led science summer camps and has managed science fairs for Fairfax County Public Schools.
  
  

• Margaret Sweatman

  Middle School Athletic Director

  Mrs. Sweatman (Grace ‘25, Ryan ‘26, and Kate ‘29) is a multi-sport athlete who competed in a variety of elite-level teams both in high school and in college. She is a CrossFit athlete dedicated to physical fitness and is passionate about women’s athletics. She is experienced in coaching and in running various athletic programs. Mrs. Sweatman earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Providence College.
  
  

• Jennifer Sypal

  Mathematics
  Mrs. Jennifer Sypal (Elizabeth ‘21, Clare ‘25, and Rose ‘27) holds a Masters in Business Administration with a Finance Major and a Masters of Arts in International Studies with a concentration in Europe and France from The Wharton School and The Lauder Institute at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as a Bachelor of Arts cum laude from American University. She has taught high school geometry at the hybrid St. John Bosco School in Sterling, VA and since 2014 has run the popular “History Club” in Herndon, teaching homeschooled elementary and middle school students. In addition, Mrs. Sypal has worked as a manager and senior consultant for multiple companies over the years, including as a real estate partner and in business development.
  
  

• Elisa Torres

  Visual Arts, Class Dean

  Ms. Torres earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Temple University with a major in Art Education and minor in Art History. She has a certification in K-12 Art Education and a certificate in Professional Campus Ministry from the University of Mary. Ms. Torres manages a professional art practice of oil paintings, journals, prints and stickers. Her work can be found on her website:  www.elisamtorres.com. Prior to joining Oakcrest Ms. Torres was a missionary with the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) at Stony Brook University.
  
  

• Fr. Charles Trullols

  Fr. Charles grew up in Barcelona, Spain. In 1999 he graduated as an architect from the School of Architecture of Barcelona. After spending a year in the Spanish Air Force he moved to Rome where he studied Theology and earned a Ph.D. in Canon Law at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross. In 2006 he was ordained a priest in Rome by the Prelate of Opus Dei and was assigned to work in Granada, Spain, as the chaplain of an all-boys high school, Mulhacén. In 2008 he moved to the US and lived in Pittsburgh, PA from 2008 to 2010 and in South Bend, IN from 2010 to 2012 where he took care of the pastoral needs of the Prelature of Opus Dei. In 2012 he moved to Chicago and was appointed Spiritual Director of Opus Dei in the Midwest. He also worked as assistant chaplain of The Willows Academy and Northridge Prep in Chicago.
  
  

• Leonard van Niekerk

  Fleet Maintenance Manager
  Leonard is originally from South Africa. He is a retired high school teacher, having taught Economics and Business Studies to 8th, 10th and 11th graders from 2004 until 2014. He is a former chairperson for the Governing Body of an elementary school from 1997 to 2000. He came to the USA in 2014 and joined Oakcrest in 2018. He became a US Citizen in January 2020. In 2002, Leonard graduated from the University of South Africa, with a double major in Education & Psychology. In 2011 a second degree, BTech Human Resources Development, was completed. Leonard is currently responsible for transporting the students. He stays current with trends in education by also working as a substitute teacher for Loudoun County Public Schools. In his spare time he loves riding his motorcycle and staying fit by biking on the O&D Trail.
  
  

• Kathleen (Ouyang '09) Villanueva

  Master Teacher - History
  

  After graduating from Oakcrest in 2009, Mrs. Villanueva attended Roanoke College where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History. She received many commendations, including the ASIANetwork Freeman Foundation Award. While studying as an U.S. Fulbright Student Research Fellow, Mrs. Villanueva researched the history of heritage tourism in the Chinese city of Xi’an, developed her research topic with an advisor from Northwest University in Xi’an, and presented her research at the U.S. Fulbright Mid-Year Workshop in Taiwan. Mrs. Villanueva has enjoyed the cheerful and encouraging atmosphere of Oakcrest since joining the faculty in 2014.
  
  

• Jessie Waites

  English, Class Dean
  Mrs. Waites comes to Oakcrest from Northwest Ohio Classical Academy in Toledo, Ohio. Her experience includes instructing according to the classical model of education of the Barney Charter School Initiative, a program through Hillsdale College which emphasizes the cultivation of virtue in the human person, particularly through early exposure to the Great Books and a content-rich, liberal arts curriculum. While at Northwest Ohio Classical Academy, Mrs. Waites was a founding member of the school’s special-education program team, where she aided students with social and learning difficulties in kindergarten through high school. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in English from Hillsdale College.
  
  

• Mary Sheehan Warren

  Theology, Class Dean
  Mrs. Warren has many years of teaching experience in various levels including middle school, high school and university. She has also taught Catholic Catechism at parochial religious education programs as well as Business Ethics to university students. Mrs. Warren has a deep love for the Oakcrest mission and is the author of two books and several articles. She earned both her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor of Science magna cum laude from the University of Maryland College Park, as well as a certificate in Catholic Theology from the Augustine Institute.
  
  

• Isabela Wilson '19

  Student Life and Library Associate

  After graduating from Oakcrest in 2019, Ms. Wilson attended Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design with a minor in Art History. Ms. Wilson has a passion for fashion and has worked extensively with historic textiles, specifically for the Fox Historic Costume Collection where she handled and examined 18th century textiles. 
  
  

• Alice Witt

  History, Class Dean
  Mrs. Alice Witt earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Education, Schooling, and Society from the University of Notre Dame. During her time at Notre Dame, she particularly enjoyed classes relating to the foundations of American government and teaching American history. Mrs. Witt also studied abroad in Dublin and researched the Irish education system. Outside of academics, she loves helping coach the Oakcrest varsity volleyball team.