A Life in Catholic Education: Meet Principal Nancy McHugh
St. Joseph Academy is thrilled to welcome Nancy McHugh as our new Principal for the 2025–26 school year. A dynamic leader and award-winning educator, McHugh brings over 20 years of Catholic school experience, a deep academic background in science and business, and a passion for preparing students for meaningful, purpose-driven lives.
From Science Labs to School Leadership
McHugh began her career as a chemist at Rohm and Haas Company, where she co-developed patented compounds for automotive and textile applications. After earning her MBA in Finance and B.S. in Chemistry from St. Joseph’s University, she felt called to education — and never looked back.
“Helping students discover their potential has always been the most rewarding part of my work,” she said. “It’s not about lecturing — it’s about mentoring, empowering, and preparing students for the world ahead.”
Her teaching career began in 2004 at St. Augustine Prep, where she introduced Honors Applied Chemistry, Environmental Science, and several summer enrichment programs. She eventually rose to Dean of Academics, overseeing strategic curriculum development and implementing more than a dozen new courses across STEM, humanities, and entrepreneurship.
Award-Winning Educator, Thoughtful Innovator
In 2015, McHugh was honored as the New Jersey Nonpublic School Teacher of the Year and received the Outstanding Augustinian Educator Award. She also earned recognition from Princeton University as a Distinguished Secondary School Teacher — one of the highest honors in her field.
Her recent accomplishments as Dean include:
Launching courses in Biomedical Sciences, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurial Thinking, and Digital Music Technology
Overseeing College Counseling and Student Services
Developing structured mentorship cohorts
Leading faculty growth and evaluation systems
She is an active member of multiple professional associations, including the American Chemical Society, AACT, and NJAIS, and has completed dozens of professional development workshops in curriculum design, STEM learning, and instructional leadership.
A Natural Fit for St. Joseph Academy
McHugh was drawn to St. Joseph Academy’s mission and momentum.
“This school is rooted in values — faith, service, excellence — and it’s growing in all the right ways,” she said. “I’m excited to be part of a community that’s preparing students not just to succeed, but to lead with purpose.”
Her goals at SJA are clear: maintain high academic standards, strengthen community culture, and reinforce the school’s identity as South Jersey’s premier life skills institution.
Head of School Mr. Stephen Cappuccio shared:
“Nancy is a visionary, a listener, and a leader. She understands how to challenge students academically while supporting them emotionally and spiritually. We are honored to have her at SJA.”
A New Chapter Begins
As the school year approaches, McHugh is already connecting with staff and students and working on new initiatives that will enhance SJA’s strong academic and faith foundation.
“I believe in the students here,” she said. “And I believe in what this school can do for their future.”
Welcome, Principal McHugh — we’re glad you’re home
