Member Voices

Connecting Through Curiosity with Patricia Sasser, Former Assistant Head of School, Saint Mary’s School

Patricia Sasser, former Assistant Head of School for Academic Affairs at Saint Mary’s School (NC), shares her journey from a globally nomadic childhood to a career in television at ESPN, and ultimately to leadership in independent schools. Patricia reflects on how her early experiences shaped her curiosity, empathy, and people-first approach to leadership. She discusses the transition from journalism to education, the power of storytelling in fundraising, and her commitment to faculty well-being and retention. Patricia also explores the nuances of working in boarding versus day schools, single-sex versus coeducational environments, and the importance of mentoring and human-centered leadership. Now on sabbatical, she opens up about prioritizing family, pursuing creative passions, and continuing her doctoral work—all while staying deeply connected to the mission of supporting students and educators. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

What is your proudest moment?

In our last compilation episode, school leaders share their proudest moments. This episode is the final part of a series celebrating 100 episodes of Member Voices. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

What's your biggest challenge? Source of inspiration?

As we continue to celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we hear from school leaders about the biggest challenges they've faced, and where they turn to for inspiration. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

What are you reading right now?

We are celebrating 100 episodes of Member Voices with compilations of responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, school leaders share what they've read that they feel has helped prepare them for this moment. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Best pieces of advice that you've received?

To celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we are releasing 5 “bitesize” episodes compiling responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, past guests share the top pieces of advice they're received on their professional journey. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.