St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School Appoints Next President
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School has announced the appointment of Dr. Lisa Long as its next president, beginning with the 2026–2027 school year.
In a January 17 announcement, Father Ryan Hiaeshutter, pastoral administrator of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, praised Dr. Long’s longstanding commitment to Catholic education and her distinguished record of leadership, noting that her experience and vision make her exceptionally well-suited to guide the school into its next chapter.
Dr. Long will succeed Patrick Magee, who is retiring at the end of the current school year after more than two decades of dedicated service as president. The community expressed deep gratitude for Magee’s leadership and the strong foundation he leaves for the future.
A Comprehensive Background in Catholic School Leadership
Dr. Long currently serves as principal of Christ the King Catholic School, a role she has held since 2019. Over the course of more than a decade at the school, she has served in numerous capacities, including teacher, director of curriculum, assistant principal, and principal, gaining experience that has given her, according to the school, “a rare and comprehensive understanding of Catholic schools from every lens.”
Her leadership has included guiding accreditation processes, leading National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence self-studies, strengthening faculty development, expanding student support systems, and working collaboratively with pastors, advisory councils, and diocesan leaders. Known for a servant-leader approach rooted in collaboration and trust, Dr. Long brings both strategic insight and a strong commitment to mission-centered education.
Academic and Professional Distinction
Dr. Long holds a Doctor of Education in Catholic School Leadership from Saint Louis University, where she graduated with high distinction, and a Master of Education from Southern Methodist University with high honors. Her work is grounded in the mission of Catholic education. Informed by research-based practices that support the formation of the whole child, academically, spiritually, and socially.
In addition to her school leadership roles, Dr. Long has served as an adjunct professor and curriculum designer at the University of Dallas, where she teaches graduate-level courses in instructional leadership, curriculum development, and spiritual leadership. She is also a frequent presenter at national and diocesan conferences.
A Leader Rooted in Community and Mission
A parishioner of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Dr. Long has expressed appreciation for the school community’s “faith-filled, joyful, and vibrant” character. Her leadership philosophy aligns closely with the school’s mission to educate the whole child, form disciples of Christ, and pursue excellence in all areas of school life.
As she prepares to step into the presidency, Dr. Long looks forward to building on the school’s strong legacy while bringing vision and thoughtful leadership to its future growth.