New Assistant Principal for Academics
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Chris Smart has been appointed as our new Assistant Principal for Academics. An educational leader with extensive experience in Catholic schools, Dr. Smart began his educational career at Jesuit High School in Sacramento, where he taught History and Theology. He continued in Jesuit education at Portland Jesuit High School, fulfilling leadership roles for 19 years, including terms as Athletic Director, Dean of Students, and Assistant Principal for Academics. He currently serves as principal of Bishop O’Dowd High School in Oakland, California.
New Upper School Principal Brian Maraña anticipates the experience that Dr. Smart brings to Loyola and is eager to welcome him to the academic leadership team. “I am grateful and excited to have Dr. Smart join the Loyola community, said Maraña. “He brings a wealth of educational and administrative experience, with more than 35 years of professional work in Jesuit schools. More importantly, he brings with him a deep and personal faith, a commitment to academic excellence, and a genuine care for students and teachers.”
As he makes the move from West to East Coast, Dr. Smart commented on his calling to Ignatian education and the impact it has had on his family. “With gratitude and anticipation, I am excited to join the Loyola family and to collaborate with students, staff, teachers, and parents,” said Smart. “I have been blessed to be called to serve as an Ignatian educator by a loving God who invites all of us to find the divine in all things. I have seen the power and efficacy of the mission, values, and impact of a Jesuit education on my son at both the high school and university levels and I look forward to committing myself fully to helping our students strive to become men for and with others.”
Dr. Smart has a B.S. degree in Political Science from Santa Clara University, an M.A. degree in Private School Administration from the University of San Francisco, and a Doctorate of Education in Learning and Leadership from the University of Portland.
