“Be Curious.” If you have had the good fortune of meeting Dr. Gil Brady, you will have likely received this sage advice. Be curious about life, about your potential, and about the ways you can improve the lives of others. For it is in giving that we receive, and there is no better example of a leader who through his generosity of spirit has effectively inspired others to dream more, learn more, do more become more, and love more than Dr. Gil Brady.
Dr. Brady’s leadership inspired our community to discover, purchase and renovate the school’s first owned property in our 20 year history. His confidence in the capacity and strength of the school community propelled us to manifest dreams that once felt unattainable. Beyond the addition of a new campus, Dr. Brady has fostered an authentic spirit of love, compassion and care within our school culture. Longtime supporter of Nativity, and Board of Trustee, Rod Powers put it best, “Gil’s years of service have been transformational for Nativity Prep and as a Board of Trustees, we are incredibly grateful”. Because of Dr. Brady’s leadership, Nativity Prep is financially secure and poised for growth.
In the spring of 2021, Mrs. Jessica Hooper discerned a call to work in a new capacity in Catholic education. The former Assistant Head of Our Lady of Peace Academy (OLP), Mrs. Hooper accepted the role of Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Nativity Prep in the fall of 2022. It quickly became apparent that her experience as a school leader, coupled with her dedication and drive to help historically underserved populations discover opportunity alongside their potential, uniquely poised her for the role of President of Nativity Prep.
During her time at Nativity Prep, Mrs. Hooper has come to appreciate the legacy of love that permeates the campus. “I feel privileged to be a part of a school community that authentically loves, while also challenging each member to cultivate and maintain a commitment to growth. I look forward to growing alongside our students, parents, faculty, staff and community. This opportunity is truly a privilege and if I have yet to meet you, I certainly look forward to the opportunity to get to know you!”.
Jessica Hooper brings a wealth of experience to her role as President. She has worked in San Diego’s Catholic schools for nearly 20 years. Her former colleague, Dr. Lauren Lek, Head of School at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, shares, “Jessica is a shining light in Catholic education. She gracefully balances incredible wisdom and a deep-seated faith in all that she does. I am so grateful for all that she will bring to the Nativity Prep community”.
Dr. Brady will continue to serve Nativity Prep in a new role as our Strategic Initiatives Consultant. He will focus his time and attention on projects that support the growth of our school program and increase opportunities for our students and families. He is excited to continue to support Mrs. Hooper in her role as President.
Board of Trustee Chair, Ham Southworth, shares, “We are honored that Jessica has accepted the position as President and have great confidence in her ability to continue the growth trajectory for Nativity Prep”. Thanks to you and the commitment of the entire Nativity Prep community, we are poised to grow and expand our impact. Stay connected with us to learn more!
