We will Endure.

INTERIM HEAD OF SCHOOL

Valorie Mundie is deeply committed to girls’ education and the transformative role young women will play in shaping the future. She believes in cultivating a well-rounded education that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit. Guided by her strong faith in God, Valorie views her career in education as a true calling.

Her professional journey has been diverse and purpose-driven. She has served in medically profound special education, inclusive education, and general education across both elementary and high school levels. Valorie’s academic path began at Brevard College in North Carolina, though life’s transitions later led her into a career as a professional photographer. She was called back to education when she homeschooled her daughter through middle school, an experience that reignited her passion for teaching. Valorie went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Teaching degrees from the University of Virginia, and she is now pursuing her doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction.

At St. Margaret’s School, Valorie has supported students and faculty in her role as Academic Dean, serving with steadfast dedication. Her connection to St. Margaret’s runs deep—her family has been part of the school community for three generations. She was born and raised in the Northern Neck, with family roots spanning generations in both the Northern Neck and the Middle Peninsula, and she remains devoted to the school’s mission and the community it serves.

Today, Valorie is honored to support St. Margaret’s as the Interim Head of School. With the unwavering support of her family, she looks forward to welcoming students back to campus and inviting alumnae to reconnect with the school during this time of transition. Valorie firmly believes that as we grow in age, we must also grow in grace, a truth that guides her leadership and service to the St. Margaret’s community

DIRECTOR OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

For the past two years, Jovita has worked in the Advancement Department at St. Margaret’s School as the Database Manager, where she supports both development and admissions.

In addition to her professional achievements, Jovita is deeply involved in community service and leadership. She has served as the President of The Haven Shelter and Services in Warsaw, Virginia. Currently, she is the President of Historic Downtown Tappahannock, guiding efforts to preserve and promote the town’s historic core. She is also in her second year as the Essex County Christmas Mother, a role dedicated to bringing holiday joy and support to local families in need.

Jovita has a passion for entrepreneurship and creativity. She and her 16-year-old daughter, Jasmine, co-own J&J Crafts, where they create handmade items and showcase their work at local farmers' markets and bazaars.

Proud of her roots and dedicated to her community, Jovita continues to invest her time and talents in education, service, and initiatives that strengthen Tappahannock and the surrounding region.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, AND DIRECTOR OF THE FSMS MUSIC ACADEMY

James B. Barrack “Jamie” is a proud native of the Northern Neck of Virginia.  He graduated from Lancaster High School in 1991 and from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1995, where he received a Bachelor’s of Music with a concentration in Choral Music Education. Additionally, Jamie has completed graduate coursework in Educational Leadership at the University of Virginia.

Jamie taught choral music in Chesterfield and Hanover counties for 30 years, including James River High School, Meadowbrook High School, and Hanover High School. For six years, he served as the Coordinator for the Chesterfield County Specialty Center for the Arts at Thomas Dale High School.  Choral ensembles, under his direction, have won numerous grand championships and specialty awards at the local, regional, and national levels. Some of Jamie’s former students have been seen on national television on American Idol and The Voice.

In addition to his educational career, Jamie serves as Director of Music Ministries at The Brandermill Church in Midlothian, Virginia, and co-director and founder of the Voices in Peace community choir sponsored by the Weinstein Jewish Community Center. He currently resides in Bon Air, Virginia, with his lovely bride, Stacey and is the proud father of Jake, Jenna, and Josh.

Jamie joins the Foundation for St. Margaret’s team with a unique knowledge of the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula, as his family has resided in this area for over 300 years. He has spent his entire life on the Rappahannock River fishing, skiing, and boating, and was a commercial waterman throughout high school and college.  He is excited to return to his “roots” and for the opportunity to serve the Foundation for St. Margaret’s School community as an administrator and music teacher.

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS, ELECTIVE INSTRUCTOR, AND ASSISTANT CREW COACH

Kimberly Howell is a dedicated and passionate educator with a B.A. in History of Art from the University of Kansas. She teaches art history and appreciation to high school students, inspiring them to explore the rich and diverse world of the visual arts. Her love for traveling allows her to experience new cultures firsthand, visiting museums, galleries, and architectural sites around the globe. This passion for cultural exploration enriches her teaching by bringing unique perspectives and insights into the classroom.

Beyond her academic background, Mrs. Howell is currently pursuing her education in hand-drawn architectural illustration, combining her love for design and art. She is also a certified Feldenkrais Practitioner, emphasizing mindful movement and body awareness in her approach to both teaching and personal growth.

An avid outdoor enthusiast, Mrs. Howell enjoys hiking, Nordic and Alpine skiing, and any activity that allows her to connect with nature. Her varied interests and continued learning journey make her an inspiring role model for her students, encouraging them to see the world through a lens of curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for art and design

HUMANITIES INSTRUCTOR AND HEAD CREW COACH

Troy Howell earned his B.A. in English and M.A. in U.S. History from the University of Virginia, and is a 1985 graduate of Casady School. He has been a professional educator since 1992, either in the classroom or on the water as a rowing and sculling coach.

Before joining the faculty at St. Margaret’s, he taught and coached from 1993-2008 at the Episcopal School of Dallas and was Director of Sculling Programs at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Vermont from 2014-2022.

HUMANITIES CHAIR, DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE COUNSELING

Blake Brunner has been part of the St. Margaret’s community since 2021. In that time, he has served as Dean of College Counseling, English Department Chair, and Dorm Head. He guides students through the college admission process, helps expand access to scholarships, and provides SAT preparation to support academic success. In addition to leading the English faculty, he teaches Humanities courses and mentors students in both academic and residential life.

Blake brings more than a decade of international teaching and advising experience, including work at universities and secondary schools in South Korea, as well as serving as an IELTS examiner with the British Council. He holds an M.A. in International Relations from Boston University and a B.A. in Writing Seminars from Johns Hopkins University. He is currently pursuing his Ed.D. in Leadership at Virginia Commonwealth University.