Gunderson Named New Head of School at St. Anthony

St. Anthony Jr. and Sr. High School, Wailuku, Maui. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

St. Anthony’s Junior-Senior High School Board has selected Betsey Gunderson as its new head of school, school officials announced.

Gunderson’s ties to Maui reportedly include former employment at the campus as Social Studies Department chair, Freshmen Division coordinator and religion teacher.

She was one of two finalists being considered for the new post, created as part of the school’s new governance plan to increase student enrollment, and improve overall school operations.

“As our first-ever Head of School, Betsey brings a wealth of knowledge and experience ensuring we carry out the Hawaii Catholic School’s ‘Systems for Success,’ and moving the school forward with 21st century educational methods while also implementing balanced budgets,” said Catherine Nobriga Kim, school board chair, in a press release.

“We proudly welcome her to the campus and look forward to her leadership in carrying out our mission at St. Anthony,” said Nobriga Kim.

Much of Gunderson’s 33-years of experience in education and leadership have been at her high school alma mater, Maryknoll School in Honolulu, school officials said.  Gunderson reportedly worked at Maryknoll as principal for 10 years, spending the last two years as director of curriculum.

Her new Maui appointment takes effect on July 22.