Mrs. Christie Keuchel returns to Oakcrest as the Head of School after spending 13 years at Oakcrest from 2007 to 2020 in a variety of roles: Associate Head of School for Students, Director of Student Life, Director of Middle and Upper School, and as a Theology teacher and mentor.

With more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, mentor, and a school administrator, Mrs. Keuchel is passionate about helping girls grow into young women of virtue who are equipped to positively impact their families and communities. 

As Interim Head of School, Mrs. Keuchel’s role is to “ensure that the mission of Oakcrest is carried out in the daily life of the school,” she says. 

The mission of Oakcrest School is to challenge girls in grades 6-12 by partnering with parents to help develop the student’s intellect, character, faith and leadership potential to thrive in college and throughout their lives. Mrs. Keuchel oversees how the school can bring this mission to life in various ways. 

“I aim to be available for the needs of the school, the teachers, the students and parents,” Mrs. Keuchel explains. “I enjoy connecting with the girls, to see how they are doing and if there is anything I can do to help support them and guide them on their journey. We are here for a bigger purpose and it’s about caring for Oakcrest, seeing the parents as the primary educators of their daughter, assisting the students as they learn about their academic subjects, but also about themselves, their life of faith, friendships and growing in virtue.”

In taking on this new role, Mrs. Keuchel said she has been spending time learning what it means to be a virtuous leader -- learning how to grow in her own leadership abilities and see how she can most effectively help the school to thrive. 

“I find this work to be very fulfilling,” she says. “It encourages me to think about my own mission and where I see that I have the gifts and talents to use for the good. I’m open to learning in this role, so it’s important for me to be meeting other leaders, reading and studying ways to work with young women in the midst of the current culture.” 

Some of the Oakcrest traditions that are most dear to Mrs. Keuchel’s heart are the Junior Ring Ceremony and the Graduation events, as well as the Spirit Week activities. 

“I love the Junior Ring Ceremony because it is a nice reminder and an invitation for the juniors to step into leadership and responsibility in the life of the school,” Mrs. Keuchel said. “I also enjoy the green and white spirit competitions and class cheers during spirit week. I’m really looking forward to the opportunities we will have to be together in our new McGowan Family athletic center. The new space will have such a great impact on the culture of the school and will promote greater school spirit and unity.” 

In her free time, Mrs. Keuchel enjoys spending time with her husband, exploring outside in nature, reading good books, and spending time with friends and family.  “My family recently celebrated the wedding of my niece who is also one of my goddaughters, and we were so happy to all be together for this special occasion.” 

Returning to Oakcrest has been an honor, Mrs. Keuchel said. “I’ve had many friendships develop through the years because of Oakcrest. I enjoy being part of the lives of the girls and hope to encourage them to do their best and love life. There can be challenges that young women face, but we at Oakcrest have the opportunity to really impact the girls in a way that can help guide them to make great choices aiming for the good, the true and the beautiful.” 

Mrs. Keuchel proudly says that she is an “Oakie at heart,” and is overjoyed to serve as Head of School.