Joe Cordonnier has been named as the new principal of Villa Maddona High School and Junior High parochial schools in Villa Hills.
Cordonnier will succeed Pamela McQueen, who is transitioning out of her role as principal. McQueen has served as both the principal and the executive director of the academy for the last nine years and will transition into the executive director role full-time. Cordonnier will assume his duties on July 1.
“Villa Madonna Academy has been my home for the past 25 years as a teacher, coach and an assistant principal,” said Cordonnier. “My family grew here, my passion for Catholic education grew here, and my beloved Benedictine community is rooted here. It is a dream come true to have the opportunity to lead as the principal of this awe-inspiring academy.”
Cordonnier has two master’s degrees in education, one from Xavier University and another from NKU. He worked as the academy’s dean of academics and assistant principal for the past eight years and was recognized for his teaching in 2019 when he won the Diocesan Excellence in Teaching Award. Finally, he’s coached the school’s track and field team for the last 24 years.
“Joe’s longstanding commitment to our students, families and values makes him exceptionally well prepared to guide Villa into its next chapter,” said McQueen. “He treasures the relationships, traditions and spirit that make Villa such a special place.”