aC Interview with New President/CEO Around Campus
Dr. John Barnhardt
With the official transition of school leadership to new President/CEO Dr. John Barnhardt in June, 2020, he has undertaken this important leadership role during one of the most unique moments in Bishop McNamara’s history due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The editorial staff of the Mustang Messenger wanted to learn more about Dr. Barnhardt’s transition into his new role as President/CEO and he was kind enough to share his thoughts about it and the challenges of operating a school in the midst of a global pandemic.
What have been the most impactful moments since your tenure began as President/CEO of Bishop McNamara High School? Two moments stand out in my first few months at Bishop McNamara. First, I visited Mrs. Diehlmann’s virtual class in the first few weeks of learning. It was here that I first saw students fully embracing the virtual world and a world-class educator who had adapted her entire approach to instruction. It was also here that I first felt a strong sense of belonging in the virtual world! This visit gave me tremendous confidence and gratitude to belong to a community that was selflessly dedicated to supporting one another. The second moment came during a zoning and planning call with Prince George’s County officials. On this call, I was advocating for building permits for our La Reine Science & Innovation Center. Our advocacy was successful and permitting has moved forward, but the highlight was hearing every official’s sentiments about why this project is important to Prince George’s County. Every member of the planning board had a memory and important investment in our school. It is moments like this and connections like these that make our work gratifying!
At a time of many unique challenges regarding the operation of a school in the midst of a pandemic, what challenge has the school community met that reveals the fulfilment of our mission to educate hearts and minds in a dynamic, inclusive Catholic school community rooted in the Holy Cross tradition? One of the greatest challenges in this pandemic is the establishment and strengthening of our community, virtually. An investment in Bishop McNamara is significant. Especially for our new parents, I am in awe and full of gratitude for the trust and confidence that our new families have given our school community. Moreover, many of our important “community-building” events like Back to School Night and most recently our Open House event, have been delivered entirely virtually. Despite the challenge of building a community without being in person, our family is thriving. Parents, students, and employees are finding ways to continue building relationships and this alone is an inspiration.
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THE MUSTANG MESSENGER
