Ms. Laake to Serve as New Principal

By Sydney Muray
     “Mercy is the only school where I've ever considered being Principal.” Ms. Diane Laake, currently an assistant principal at Mercy, was recently announced as the new principal for the 2010-2011 school year.

     Ms. Laake has been a member of the Mercy community for thirty-one years, as both science teacher and assistant principal. “I am excited about the opportunity to be a new kind of role model for our students. The charisma of Catherine McAuley has always been a source of inspiration for me and the "Mercy values" are a great way to focus and live your life! “
     With the ending of Sister Nancy’s time as principal also comes the ending of a tradition that has been in place at Mercy since its doors first opened, having a Sister of Mercy as principal. “I am particularly honored to be the first lay person to serve in this role,” says Ms. Laake. “I am taking over the reins of an organization that is in great shape-Sr. Nancy has done an excellent job these last 20 years!
     Although the job as principal can be stressful, Ms. Laake is looking forward to it. “I can't wait to spend more time with the staff and especially the students in new and creative ways. I look forward to promoting increased dialogue with everyone, to hear more specifically and personally what our collective hopes and dreams and goals are for Mercy, and to find ways to make it happen!”
     Ms. Laake is also involved in many activities outside of Mercy. “While I am deeply committed to serving Mercy and know that this job will take even more time than I currently give, I am committed to not letting it take all my time. I even told the selection committee that my commitments outside of Mercy - especially those related to my role on the Board of Franciscans Network, working with various human rights and social justice projects - are very important to me. I also believe that being involved in programs and places outside of Mercy will help me be a better leader. Broad and divergent exposure brings new ideas, a deeper understanding, and more opportunities for growth and progress.”
    Ms. Laake hopes to keep the tradition of Mercy alive during her years as principal. “It's the spirit of Mercy, the extraordinary students and staff, our phenomenal opportunities and programs and the overall mission of our school which is to educate and empower young women in a Christian, value-centered environment -- this is where I feel inspired to continue to serve.”