Celebrating a Loyola School of Education Alumna Leading with Purpose, Equity, and Innovation

At Loyola University Maryland’s School of Education, we believe in preparing leaders who embrace the responsibility to build a just and democratic society. Our graduates carry forward Loyola’s Jesuit values—cura personalis, a commitment to the whole person, and a drive for meaningful service—into their classrooms, their communities, and the world. Kathryn Adelsberger, M.Ed., ’18, Ed.D., principal of Mercy High School in Baltimore, exemplifies these ideals as both an accomplished educational leader and a champion for equity-centered learning.

A proud alumna of our M.Ed. in Educational Leadership program, Dr. Adelsberger has realized a vision that aligns seamlessly with Loyola’s mission. Recently honored as one of the Baltimore Business Journal’s 2024 “Top 40 Under 40” honorees, she stands among a distinguished community of educators and leaders deeply committed to creating transformative, life-changing opportunities for students.

Under Dr. Adelsberger’s leadership, Mercy High School has fostered a truly global perspective through initiatives like becoming an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. In doing so, she encourages her students to think critically, engage in inquiry, and cultivate a lasting passion for learning—skills we at Loyola consider essential in a world that values innovation, understanding, and justice. As Dr. Adelsberger’s career trajectory demonstrates, excellence in education extends beyond academic outcomes; it shapes communities that are more inclusive, empathetic, and civically engaged.

Her dedication to professional growth, from completing her doctorate at Fordham to advancing the IB curriculum at Mercy, mirrors Loyola’s commitment to nurturing teachers, counselors, and leaders who continuously refine their practice. Through her example, Dr. Adelsberger shows current and future educators what it means to embrace lifelong learning and become agents of positive change within their schools and beyond.

As we celebrate Dr. Adelsberger’s achievements, we also celebrate the collaborative spirit that drives the School of Education. Like many of our alumni, she maintains meaningful connections to the broader Baltimore community, taking part in partnerships that reflect our shared belief that education is a powerful lever for equity and opportunity.

Learn more about Dr. Adelsberger’s inspiring work by visiting the Baltimore Business Journal’s profile and reading Mercy High School’s announcement.

Through her example, we see how our graduates bring Loyola’s values to life—creating learning environments that honor diversity, promote justice, and empower students to shape a better future for us all.