Stuart names new Director of Strategic Initiatives and Leadership and Head of Upper School

Stuart is pleased to share two exciting leadership announcements that reflect our continued commitment to the Sacred Heart mission and to the bold, joyful education of young women. These leadership moves align our school’s talent with our strategic goals and priorities, positioning Stuart for continued success as a leader in educating girls. Effective immediately, Dr. Marissa Muoio has been named Director of Strategic Initiatives and Leadership, and Ms. Kristen Zosche has been appointed Head of Upper School. 

In her new role, Dr. Muoio will be empowered to impact students in all three divisions, helping to shape and advance Stuart’s most transformative institutional priorities. As Director of Strategic Initiatives and Leadership, she will spearhead the next strategic planning process; steward the forward vision of the National Center for Girls’ Leadership at Stuart (NCGLS) and the implementation of the Cor Cordis educational philosophy; and work closely with school leadership, all faculty, and external partners to ensure that Stuart remains at the forefront of mission-driven innovation in education. She will also remain a constant presence in the Upper School as she guides students through their leadership endorsement program and will continue teaching the Research Fundamentals course. 

Dr. Muoio shares: “As Director of Strategic Initiatives and Leadership, I have the opportunity to inspire and encourage more advocacy for girls’ education and to cultivate champions who believe in its impact. As both a product of girls’ schools and a leader within them, I carry the responsibility to build the pipeline—to open doors, amplify voices, and champion the dreams of young women. I want to be part of the work that ensures girls never hesitate to raise their hand, take the lead, or ask ‘Can I?’—because they’ll already know the answer is, ‘YES’.”

Dr. Muoio is a visionary thinker, a steady and collaborative leader, and a tireless advocate for girls. She has an extraordinary gift for connecting ideas to action and people to purpose. In this new role, she will continue to move Stuart forward with wisdom, energy, and a deep love of our Sacred Heart mission.

Dr. Muoio and Ms. Zosche have long served as “joy bearers” in our community—leading with conviction, care, and a commitment to student growth. Their presence on the senior leadership team ensures that these values remain at the heart of the Upper School experience.

For the past five years, Kristen Zosche has served as Dean of Student Life, where she was instrumental in strengthening student culture, advancing wellness through the Cor Cordis initiatives, and supporting leadership development with warmth, clarity, and a deep belief in the mission of Sacred Heart education.

Prior to joining Stuart, Ms. Zosche was the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Mount Saint Dominic Academy in Caldwell, New Jersey, after many years in the classroom as an English faculty member. She led the design and implementation of interdisciplinary academic programs in health sciences, social justice, and entrepreneurship for young women while supporting faculty growth through coaching and collaborative curricular planning. With more than a decade of experience in independent girls’ schools, Ms. Zosche brings a vision of education that centers student voice, intellectual challenge, and holistic development. 

Ms. Zosche shares: “Serving as Dean of Student Life at Stuart these past five years has been one of the most meaningful chapters in my professional life. I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of this community to help students grow into their strongest, most authentic selves. I’m deeply honored and excited to step into the Head of Upper School role and to continue partnering with our faculty, students, and families to shape a bold and joyful Upper School experience.”

Ms. Zosche brings with her an extraordinary record of program development, a deep understanding of the adolescent experience, and a passion for helping students grow into their full potential. Her thoughtful leadership and contagious enthusiasm will be a gift to our students, faculty, and entire Sacred Heart community. Eager to remain closely connected to her students and the academic experience, she will continue teaching the ninth grade Cor Cordis class.

Together, Dr. Muoio and Ms. Zosche have shaped an Upper School culture that celebrates joy and individuality while helping students discover purpose during their high school years. As they move into their new roles, please join us in celebrating all they have already accomplished and all that they will bring to our wider school community. This marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Stuart!