Brother Rice High School has announced a significant evolution in its leadership structure, transitioning from a traditional President–Principal model to a Head of School framework, effective July 1, 2026. The change, developed over the past year by President Mark Donahue and the school’s Board of Directors, reflects Brother Rice’s commitment to long-term institutional strength, specialized student support, and faithful stewardship of the Edmund Rice tradition.
Under the new structure, Donahue will serve as Head of School, providing unified leadership across all aspects of the institution. He will be supported by three Deans and an Athletic Director, each holding clear responsibility for a distinct pillar of the Brother Rice student experience.
The New Leadership Structure
John Rolence, currently Assistant Principal and English Department Chair, will assume the role of Dean of Academics. In this capacity, Rolence will oversee curriculum and instruction, faculty development, and student academic support—ensuring every student is challenged and prepared for success beyond Brother Rice.
Matt Prunckle, who currently serves as Dean of Student Life, will take on an expanded role as Dean of Student Life. His responsibilities will encompass all facets of student formation outside the classroom—including student activities, behavioral formation, counseling, and overall well-being—providing greater consistency and clearer communication for families.
A newly created role, Dean of Spiritual Life and Campus Ministry, will ensure that the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice and the Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brothers education remain central to the daily life of the school. The Dean will lead theology, campus ministry, service, and retreats—elevating faith formation to a dedicated seat at the leadership table.
Bob Alberts, who has served as both Principal and Athletic Director, will focus entirely on his role as Athletic Director. Alberts will have full oversight of Brother Rice’s 18 varsity sports programs, supporting coaches and student-athletes while leading continued investment in athletic facilities.
A Mission-Driven Evolution
The Head of School model is increasingly used among high-performing Catholic and independent schools, including several in the Chicago area. The structure allows specialized leaders to focus deeply on their area of the student experience, while the Head of School concentrates on long-term strategy, mission advancement, and financial sustainability.
“This is a thoughtful, mission-driven evolution of our leadership model. It allows us to better serve our students, strengthen our Catholic identity, and responsibly steward our resources—so we can invest more boldly in the future of Brother Rice.”
— Mark Donahue, Head of School / President, Brother Rice High School
The change is being implemented as the school marks a significant milestone: its 70th anniversary in 2026, having been founded in 1956.
About Brother Rice High School
Brother Rice High School is a Catholic, all-boys college preparatory high school located on the southwest side of Chicago, celebrating 70 years of education in the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers tradition. As the premier Catholic all-boys high school in the Chicago Southland, Brother Rice serves young men across the region with a commitment to academic excellence, athletic formation, and faith-rooted character development. The school’s mission calls students to “Act Manfully in Christ Jesus” and to carry the bonds of the Brotherhood for life.
