NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Westchester’s only all-boys Catholic school to make the “Best Catholic High Schools in New York State” and “Best Private High Schools in New York State” on Niche.com, Iona Preparatory has named Kieran Daly as its next Upper School principal. Mr. Daly, whose career has spanned more than 30 years at Iona Prep, currently serves as Dean of Students. He will become principal effective July 1, 2017. Mr. Daly has also served at the Upper School as a teacher, Dean of Freshman, Science Chair, Assistant Dean of Discipline and Director of Facilities.
“Mr. Daly is already an integral part of this campus’ success. We feel very fortunate that Kieran will be assuming this important role as we move into another century of excellence,” said Brother Thomas R. Leto, President of Iona Prep. “He brings a broad range of experience from his long career here. I can’t think of anyone better suited to take this position.”
Mr. Daly holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Psychology from Iona College and a master’s in Educational Psychology from Fordham University. He is currently pursuing an additional master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Dayton.
“I am honored to have this opportunity. There are many exciting initiatives ahead for our Iona Prep community,” said Mr. Daly. “We are looking at an expansion of our Arts Center, complete with a new theater, as well as several educational programmatic enhancements so that our students are always ahead of the curve. It’s an exciting time to be a part of Iona Prep history as we celebrate our centennial year.”
Mr. Daly is preceded by the retiring Edward A. O’Neill, who has served as Upper School Principal since June 2014. Prior to that Mr. O’Neill was a Guidance Counselor, Headmaster and Assistant Headmaster for Instruction. In recognition of his 45 years in the service of Catholic education, the majority of which have been at Iona Prep, Mr. O’Neill received the Francis Cardinal Spellman Award from his alma mater, Cardinal Hayes High School, on March 18.
“It is my pleasure to have been part of the Iona community for thirty years. I have served the school in a variety of roles. A constant has been the character of our graduates and being part of the process of transforming boys to men. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity,” said Mr. O’Neill.