After deciding to implement the president and principal model of an institution a year ago and beginning the search for president about six months ago, Bishop Noll announced on Dec. 2 that Paul Mullaney, alum and parent, will assume the position on Jan. 6.
Mullaney has spent the past 28 years working for The Times in positions as a sports writer and managing editor, but he is no stranger to Catholic education, having attended Our Lady of Grace in Highland, Bishop Noll Institute (‘77) and University of Notre Dame where he received a bachelor’s in American studies and communications. Though Mullaney does not have any previous presidential experience, he has spent many years volunteering at Noll and has also been a board member for the past eight years. His background in communications and strong Catholic values make him a qualified individual for this position.
“I have spent my entire career in the newspaper and communications business, telling stories to readers, informing them on what they need or want to know,” Mullaney said. “In many respects, this role allows me to do the same thing, though specifically about Bishop Noll. I will be out in the community and will also be using digital platforms to tell the success stories of BNI, trumpeting the accomplishments of our students, faculty, administration, staff and alumni – with a goal of increasing resources to help the school thrive and increasing the number of students who apply to attend BNI.”
Mullaney and his wife Kelly have sent four students through Noll and currently have two daughters in the school: Erin, a sophomore; and Megan, a freshman. However, having children who currently attend the school will not affect his position in any way.
“The focus for all of us always needs to be the students, but my role is not in areas that involve curriculum. The biggest effect it might have on my girls is that they might be tempted to see if they can borrow a dollar or two for lunch,” he said. “I’m not sure yet how I’ll answer that one.”
Mullaney has many plans for the future of Noll. With this new presidential position being introduced, changes will be made for a brighter future ahead.
“There are so many things I would like to accomplish working hand-in-hand with our board, with Mr. Stafford and the administration, with the diocese and Dr. O’Block, and with all of our BNI families and stakeholders. Such things include increasing our donation base, improving connectivity with our alumni, increasing enrollment and making our facilities as state-of-the-art as possible. My vision is to hold a huge celebration in 2021 when we celebrate the school’s centennial, and at that time we will have a lot to celebrate if all of the aforementioned items have been accomplished,” stated Mullaney about the future of Noll.