With more than twenty years in leadership development in education and nonprofit spaces, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, and organizations to help them articulate their values, clarify their goals, identify their "next steps," and face challenges with perseverance - and an appropriate sense of humor!
My coaching style is kind and clear, thoughtful and results-oriented, intelligent and enthusiastic. Self-awareness of our strengths is a catalyst to enhance trust, teamwork, and achievement. I love to support:
-
Leaders, particularly heads of school, principals, deans, & nonprofit directors
-
New and aspiring leaders, especially women
-
Professionals navigating career transition, including veterans transitioning to the civilian workforce
​​
I currently manage and consult on a pilot coaching program for new principals at the University of Notre Dame. I have served as a chief of staff, school leader (in “COO” & “CEO” roles), and teacher. I have reported to and served on boards of trustees. I studied leadership at Columbia University Teachers College and executive coaching at St. Joseph’s University in partnership with the Center for Executive Coaching.
You may learn more about my professional journey here.
MARY KATE BLAINE
MEd, ACC, BCC
​
Associate Certified Coach
International Coaching Federation
​
Board Certified Coach
Center for Credentialing and Education
​
Certified Executive & Career Coach
Center for Executive Coaching
​
EdM in School Leadership
MA in History & Education
Columbia University
​
BA in American Studies
Fordham University
Professional Highlights
2021 - 2023
2013 - 2021
2011 - 2013
Trinity Hall - Head of School (CEO Equivalent)
Led 10-year-old independent academic institution’s vision, strategy, and complex operations during transitionary period. Oversaw team of 50 faculty & staff and supported 300 families. Coached and mentored senior leaders, providing opportunities for ongoing professional development. Managed $7M budget and $26M in assets. Drove strategic growth initiatives that generated a 20% increase in admissions applications, enabled school to meet 112% and 126% of annual funding goal, and elevated student engagement. Enhanced long-range planning and student admissions and financial aid processes by adjusting organization-wide budget process and board deliberation timeline.
Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School - Principal (COO Equivalent)
First new member of senior leadership team in 20 years, driving vision, direction, and operations for 225-year-old independent secondary school with 80 faculty and staff and 500 families. Routinely reported and deliberated with board members, facilitated professional development and collaborative processes, and represented organization in intimate and large-scale events to advance mission. Oversaw academic budget planning, financial management, and employee recruitment and development. Deepened staff skills by managing performance concerns and identifying professional development opportunities, including training in principles of neuroscience, social-emotional intelligence, and inclusion.
Office of the Superintendent, Archdiocese of NY - Chief of Staff
Interfaced with superintendent to review and implement strategic initiatives. Managed matrixed relationships to ensure effective collaboration across departments, including Mission Effectiveness, Instruction, Communication, Leadership & Recruitment, and Public Policy & Student Services. Facilitated communication and resolved conflicts among more than 40 key members of central and regional offices. Contributed to strategic-planning processes to restructure school governance model, align instructional programs with Common Core standards, and implement tactical school closures with sensitivity and compassion.