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Academy of the Sacred Heart is pleased to announce the appointment of Courtney Ward as Director of Athletics and Joseph Kepper as Associate Director of Athletics, effective July 1, 2026.

These appointments follow a comprehensive national search and a highly engaged community interview process involving student-athletes, parents, coaches, and school leadership.

Courtney Ward, currently serving as Assistant Athletic Director and Head Girls Basketball Coach, has been a driving force within Sacred Heart athletics. She oversees middle school athletics, manages departmental operations, and has led the Cardinals to historic success, including the program’s first LHSAA Final Four appearance and State Runner-Up finish. Her experience in program administration, coach development, and student-athlete support positions her to lead the department with clarity and purpose.

Joseph Kepper brings a strong background in sports program management, coaching, and community engagement. His experience includes overseeing multi-team operations at LSU University Recreation, founding and directing the NOLA Classic Volleyball Tournament, and coaching middle school soccer at Sacred Heart. His strengths in leadership development, operations, and mission-aligned coaching will further strengthen the athletics program.

“We are thrilled to welcome Courtney and Joseph into these leadership roles,” said Head of School Gretchen Zibilich Kane ’74. “Courtney’s deep institutional knowledge and Joseph’s operational strengths create a powerful partnership that will serve our student-athletes well.”

Sacred Heart extends its gratitude to the search committee and to the many members of the community who participated in the interview process.