Merion Mercy Community is pleased to announce the appointment of Shannon Fisher as Merion Mercy's second Athletic Director effective July 1, 2020.
Shannon will follow Athletic Director Barbara Clarke, who is retiring after 45 years of service. Barbara has established a tradition of athletic excellence which Shannon is proud to carry into the future.
In a candidate pool of more than 50 applicants from all over the country, Shannon's expertise, drive and student-centered approach set her apart. During her interview, Shannon was enthusiastically received by coaches, parents, students and administrators who noted she was a highly engaging and committed educator who "possessed incredible energy" and "thirst for accomplishment" and "would fit well within the mission of Merion."
Shannon is the Director of Athletics and Co-Curricular Programs at Christchurch School, a small, private boarding and day high school with a diverse population in Virginia. She is an NIAAA Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) and serves on the Executive Committee of the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association (VISAA). Shannon currently provides support for more than 45 coaches and 34 teams and activities, including a nationally ranked sailing team!
Shannon is a dedicated and collaborative leader, with a track record of fostering and nurturing long-term partnerships with student-athletes, colleagues, and internal and external stakeholders. She describes herself as a "transformational, servant leader who is driven by challenge, undeterred by obstacles, and committed to exceeding expectations."
Reflecting on her decision to accept the position, Shannon said she sought a school that values student-athletes and possessed strong core values: "As a former PIAA student-athlete (and volleyball state champion), I immediately recognized Merion Mercy Academy and remembered its stellar, competitive reputation. Throughout the process, I have been touched by the warmth and kindness of those I've met. The young women of Merion are fortunate to receive a Catholic education rooted in Mercy values, and I want to share my talents with them as they prepare to go out into the world to make an impact."
After attending Allentown Central Catholic in the Lehigh Valley, Shannon stayed local and earned her undergraduate degree at Lafayette College in Easton, PA while playing volleyball for the Leopards at the Division I level. She then went on to earn her Master of Science in Sport Management from East Stroudsburg University.
Shannon looks forward to meeting students, faculty, staff, parents and alumnae and to growing MMA's athletic programs: "I am excited to support and elevate the Merion Mercy Athletic Department. My favorite part about being an Athletic Director is helping coaches and student-athletes realize their full potential and be their very best. I am thrilled to be able to do this as a Golden Bear."
Please join us in welcoming Shannon and her husband Keith Bloom to the Merion Mercy community. They are excited to return to Pennsylvania and look forward to seeing old friends, and meeting new ones, as they get acquainted with our community.
