New principal greets students at St. Vincent’s

Stephanie Quinlan is set to begin her first school year as St. Vincent Elementary School principal.

“I am so honored to be selected as the principal of this amazing school,” she said. “I look forward to continuing the 126-year tradition of Catholic education in the Petaluma community.”

Quinlan’s ministry as a Catholic educator began in the Diocese of Santa Rosa at St. John the Baptist Catholic School in her hometown of Napa. She later served the Archdiocese of San Francisco at Our Lady of Loretto School in Novato and Good Shepherd School in Pacifica.

During her years with the Archdiocese of San Francisco, she earned her masters degree in Catholic School Leadership at the University of San Francisco. She obtained a bachelors of education degree in Special Education at Gonzaga University in Spokane.

Quinlan said she is eager to implement the knowledge and experience she has received during her 13 years as a faith-based educator and leader.

“I look forward to blending my faith and leadership abilities at St. Vincent’s to help foster the growth of our students,” she said. “I am excited to have the opportunity to work with dedicated faculty members who recognize that we work in partnership with the parents of our children.”

She said she is particularly delighted to start meeting the students, “who breathe life into the school with their laughter and joy. The kids are the best part of a school.

“I cannot wait to meet them all and welcome them to the upcoming school year.” For more information on the St. Vincent de Paul Elementary School community, visit the website at svelem.org or call 762-6426.