St. Rita of Cascia High School Introduces New President

Following an extensive national search, Fr. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A., Prior Provincial of the Midwest Augustinians, announces the appointment of Dr. James Quaid as President of St. Rita of Cascia High School. "St. Rita High School is a vitally important ministry of the Midwest Augustinians, and finding the right leader to guide the school’s efforts has been a top priority. I am very pleased that Dr. James Quaid has accepted this position. His understanding and appreciation of our Augustinian mission and its corresponding values ‒ truth, unity and love ‒ makes this appointment a perfect fit,” says Fr. Pizzo.

“I am honored to be chosen as St. Rita High School’s next President. I have always held St. Rita and the Augustinian mission in high regard and feel blessed to join this vibrant school community,” said Jim Quaid.

A well-known and respected administrator and educator throughout Chicagoland, Dr. Quaid has a wealth of experience in secondary education. He has served in leadership roles at Fenwick High School, DePaul College Prep and Marmion Academy. During his 35 years in education, he has been a teacher, coach, Dean of Students, Principal, President, Associate Superintendent of Schools and has served on a multitude of boards at local elementary schools, secondary schools and universities.

“The Search Committee interviewed many qualified candidates, but Dr. Quaid’s experience, ideas and enthusiasm checked every box for St. Rita. The fact that he is so familiar with the South Side of Chicago is a plus,” said Catharine Hennessy, Chair of the Search Committee.

Dr. Quaid has held leadership positions in the Chicago Catholic League, the East Suburban Catholic Conference and the Illinois High School Association. He is a Hall of Fame inductee at Fenwick High School and both the Catholic and East Suburban Leagues. He also received a Recognition for Excellence by the Illinois State Board of Education.

“This is an exciting time in the history of our school, and I am confident that Jim Quaid will provide the leadership that will further enhance the all-around excellence that distinguishes St Rita today. His career in Catholic secondary education has been characterized by significant achievement and recognition in a variety of roles, and he is well respected throughout the Chicago education community,” said Ernie Mrozek, Board Chairman. “We are fortunate to have a man of his experience, talents and personal skills now leading our school.”

St. Rita of Cascia High School is an all-boys Catholic school at 7740 S Western Ave in Chicago sponsored by the Midwest Augustinians.