St. Thomas Aquinas High School taps new leader
EDISON – A veteran of Catholic education is the new president of St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Peter G. Kane was appointed to the position by Metuchen Bishop James F. Checchio, the diocese announced on Wednesday.
Kane, who previously served as president of Marist High School in Bayonne which closed June 30, is the first lay person to serve as St. Thomas Aquinas president.
Kane succeeds Felician Sister Donna Marie Trukowski, who retired in June after working at the school as an educator and then as principal and president for more than 37 years.
Kane's appointment reflects the exciting changes and developments at the school and compliments the bishop’s commitment and vision for the future of Catholic education in the Diocese of Metuchen, diocesan officials said.
"Mr. Kane has the experience, enthusiasm and spiritual maturity to lead St. Thomas Aquinas High School to greater heights and deeper faith,” Barbara Stevens, superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Metuchen, said in a news release. "Along with a dedicated team of faculty, staff, coaches and administrators, he will be a dynamic and inspiring presence for students, alumni and the community."
A new Board of Limited Jurisdiction has been recruited and established to provide oversight and to function as an advisory board to the bishop, president and superintendent, diocesan officials said. The board is composed of clergy, alumni and community leaders with expertise in a variety of industries and disciplines.
"I am filled with humility and joy as I embark on this wonderful journey," Kane said in the release. "We are at an important infection point in Catholic education. Our focus on values and faith development is the foundation for which our young people thirst. St. Thomas Aquinas High School strikes a balance with rigorous academic, artistic, and athletic programs in a safe and nurturing place where enlightenment can flourish."
Kane is an active member of his local parish, St. Teresa of Avila in Summit, for more than 50 years. He and his wife have been married for 27 years and are the parents of two adult sons, both who work in education.
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Kane graduated from New York University – Stern School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. Before transitioning to Catholic education leadership, he spent more than 30 years working in the financial services industry and has traveled widely in Europe and Asia.
email: cmakin@gannettnj.com
Cheryl Makin is an award-winning features and education reporter for MyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: Cmakin@gannettnj.com or @CherylMakin. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: St. Thomas Aquinas High School names Peter Kane new president
