Leadership Formation - BC Ireland

New Initiative Announcement — Leadership Formation - BC Ireland
June 16, 2025

Recognizing the vital role of Catholic schools in Ireland's educational landscape, Boston College's Roche Center for Catholic Education today announced a significant new project dedicated to fostering a new generation of confident and mission-driven leaders for Catholic primary and post-primary schools across Ireland. The initiative, generously funded by Kristine Trustey and Sean McGraw on behalf of the Trustey Family Foundation, in partnership with Boston College Ireland, will address the urgent need for robust leadership development in a rapidly evolving societal and educational context.

This ambitious project directly responds to the increasing complexities facing leadership in Catholic education in Ireland, including secularization, evolving educational expectations, and changing governance structures. It aims to equip aspiring and current leaders with the theological grounding, professional skills, and collaborative networks necessary to articulate and embody the distinctive ethos and values of Catholic education for the 21st century.

Dr. Melodie Wyttenbach, Executive Director of the Roche Center for Catholic Education, expressed her enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, "Having witnessed the transformative impact of our leadership programs in the United States for the past 15 years, we are thrilled to partner with the Irish educational community to cultivate a new wave of leaders who are deeply committed to the mission of Catholic education."

Angela Mitchell, a seasoned Irish educator with over 20 years experience working in the Irish education system, as a teacher, school leader, and formator of leaders across the system, will assume the role of Director of Leadership Formation - Ireland. Mitchell will be responsible for designing and implementing a variety of leadership programs intended to strengthen leadership in schools. 

Angela Mitchell notes, “This timely initiative recognizes the critical juncture at which Irish Catholic education stands. As leadership transitions occur and younger educators assume key roles, this project will provide the necessary support and formation to ensure the continued vitality and Catholic identity of these schools.” By investing in these leaders, the Roche Center aims to ensure that Catholic schools in Ireland flourish, remaining true to their mission while actively engaging with contemporary society.