Faculty / Staff Directory

St. Louis University – BA
University of Arkansas – MS
St. John’s Home Mission Seminary

Monsignor Lawrence Frederick ’55, known as Father Fred, was assigned by the Bishop to Catholic High School in June 1966. He earned his Bachelor of Science from St. Louis University in Aeronautical Engineering and his Masters in Science from the University of Arkansas in Mathematics. He worked two years as an engineer before entering the Seminary. In June 1966, the Bishop assigned him to Catholic High School. He taught physical science, physics, algebra I and religion. In addition to teaching at Catholic High, the Bishop assigned him to Mount St. Mary Academy in May 1992, to teach Religion. After teaching religion for nine years he is now teaching physics and is on his 19th year.
He has served as assistant pastor, associate pastor, parish administrator, chaplain for the Carmelite Monastery, and hospital chaplain for the VA hospital in Little Rock. Bishop Sartain named him Rector of Catholic High School in 2001, after Father Tribou’s death. Father served as chaplain for both schools until 2018, when the Bishop appointed chaplains to the schools. Father Fred still serves in the capacity as chaplain for the VA, the Carmelite Monastery, and Mount St. Mary Academy.

University of Arkansas – BA
St. John’s University, New York – MSE

Steve Straessle is a 1988 graduate of Catholic High School for Boys and has been a teacher there since 1992. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arkansas in History and his Masters from St. John’s University, New York in Educational Administration. In 2005, Straessle took the helm as principal and continues to teach two classes in addition to his administrative and fundraising duties. Along with writing a bi-weekly column for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and contributing to other publications, Straessle was named DAR Social Studies Teacher of the Year in 1995, a finalist for Arkansas Business Non-Profit Business Leader of the Year in 2010, ASPA Administrator of the Year in 2016, and in 2020, a member of the inaugural class of the Arkansas Top Influencers as noted by Arkansas Money and Politics magazine.

University of Arkansas – BS
University of Arkansas Law School – JD
University of Arkansas Monticello – MA

Mr. Matt Dempsey ’96 joined the Catholic High faculty from 2002-2004 and then again in the 2010-2011 school year. He earned two Bachelors of Science from the University of Arkansas: one in Computer Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis and another in Industrial Management. He then received his Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas Law School. While teaching at Catholic High, he earned his Masters in Teaching from the University of Arkansas Monticello in May 2012 and a graduate certificate in Catholic School Leadership from Creighton University in 2022.
From 2004 – 2005, Mr. Dempsey worked at Haas Hall Academy Charter School serving as chair of the Math Department and taught geometry, trigonometry, communications, and physical education. Prior to rejoining Catholic High in 2010, he worked as an attorney for Kutak Rock, LLP and then in the Pulaski County Prosecutor’s Office as a deputy prosecutor.
Mr. Dempsey became Assistant Principal prior to the 2011-2012 school year. In his 12 years as Assistant Principal, he served as the Dean of Students and the Director of Curriculum.  He was named Principal in July of 2023.  In addition to his administrative duties, he teaches Algebra II, Sports Statistics, and Religion.

University of Arkansas – BA
University of Dallas – M. Ed.

Mr. Steve Aday ’02 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2006-2007 school year. He has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arkansas in English. He obtained a Master of Catholic School Leadership from the University of Dallas. Mr. Aday serves as the Alumni Director for the CHS Foundation/Alumni Association, senior skit cheerleader sponsor, and teaches the ACT Course and Drivers Education in the summer.

Manhattan College – New York – BA
Xavier University – Cincinnati, Ohio – MA

Brother Richard Sanker, C.F.P. has been a member of the Brothers of the Poor of Saint Francis for 57 years. Brother, as he is called, earned his Bachelor of Arts from Manhattan College in French, and his Masters from Xavier University in Cincinnati in Guidance and Counseling.
Brother was assigned to five different schools in Cincinnati, New Jersey, Iowa and Arkansas before joining Catholic High in 1983. During his 37 years at Catholic High, he has taught math, French and senior religion. He also was the College Guidance Counselor until 2017, and was available for personal counseling as well. Presently, Brother teaches the senior religion class and is a personal counselor to the students.

Hendrix College – BA
University of Nebraska – MA

Fred Baker joined the Catholic High faculty in June of 2016. Prior to that, Mr. Baker worked in the Office of Admission at Hendrix College for 16 years. From 2012 to 2016, Fred served as the Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Director of Admission for Hendrix.

Over the course of his career in higher education, Mr. Baker has served a three year term on the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling’s Board of Directors. As part of that Board term, he represented the nine member states of SACAC as a voting delegate in the National Association for College Admission Counseling. Mr. Baker has also served a four year term on the Board of Directors for the Colleges that Change Lives non-profit. Fred currently serves as a member of the Governance and Nominating Committee in SACAC. He is a long-time member of SACAC and NACAC, a frequent presenter at annual higher education conferences, and has served as a faculty member at SACAC programs such as Dry Run for newly hired admission counselors and Summer Seminar for newly hired college counselors.

Mr. Baker serves as the academic and college guidance counselor, the AP coordinator, and will be teaching an American Civil War class in the 2020-2021 academic year.

University of Arkansas – BA

Ms. Kay Barre joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2006-2007 school year. Ms. Barre earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arkansas in Spanish. She currently teaches Spanish II, III, and IV as well as Religion at Catholic High. In addition to teaching part-time at Catholic High, she teaches Spanish to Transition to first through fifth graders at Miss Selmas. She is the faculty sponsor for the Model UN team.

University of Arkansas – BS

Mrs. Dawn Berry joined the Catholic High family in the 2014-2015 school year. She has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas in Business Administration. Prior to joining Catholic High, Mrs. Berry taught eighth grade math at Our Lady of Holy Souls School in Little Rock. Mrs. Berry serves as the Special Events Coordinator for the CHS Foundation/Alumni Association.

University of Arkansas – B.S.

Mr. John Bland joined the Catholic High faculty in April of 2024. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Arkansas in Kinesiology. While at Arkansas, Mr. Bland played football for the Razorbacks under coach Ken Hatfield and was named team captain for the Hogs for the 1988 SWC champions. He then went on to Auburn University where he earned a Masters degree in Kinesiology and was a graduate assistant coach for the Auburn football team, serving under coach Pat Dye. Mr. Bland’s career started at Columbia HS in Tennessee, where he was an assistant football coach and taught Biology and Advanced Physical Education. His next stop was at Southern Arkansas University where he coached football and taught a variety of classes in the Kinesiology department. After 7 years at SAU, Mr. Bland was offered a Coaching position at Rice University as an assistant under his college coach, Ken Hatfield. In 2006, Mr. Bland and his family moved to Williamsburg, KY, where he was the head Football Coach at University of the Cumberlands for eight seasons. He was named Coach of the Year five times, had six play-off appearances, and was National runner-up in 2013. Mr. Bland was inducted into the UC Hall of Fame in 2020. Mississippi College was the next stop where Mr. Bland served as the head football coach & taught a class in the Kinesiology department. He was named Gulf South Conference Coach of Year one time at Mississippi College. In addition to teaching Civics, Intro to Fitness, and PE/Health, Coach Bland is the quarterback coach for the Rockets.

Henderson State University – BSE

Mr. Scott Boone joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2000-2001 school year. He earned his Bachelor of Science, Engineering from Henderson State University in Social Sciences. He teaches US History, World History, Algebra 2, and Social Justice. Coach Scott Boone was the 2019 Stephens Award Recipient in Education.

University of Arkansas – BA

Mrs. Margie Buzbee joined the Catholic High faculty in February 2021. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Arkansas in Journalism – Advertising/Public Relations with a concentration in Business. Prior to coming to Catholic High, Mrs. Buzbee was the bookkeeper and administrative assistant for Howard CPA, PLLC. She currently serves as the Bookkeeper for the school.

University of Wisconsin – Madison – BA

Mrs. Anne Carter joined the Catholic High family in the 2006-2007 school year. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in Political Science and History. Prior to joining Catholic High, Mrs. Carter was the Development Director at the Museum of Discovery. She has over 21 years of experience in the fundraising sector. Mrs. Carter serves as the Development Director for the CHS Foundation/Alumni Association. In addition, she also is the Marketing Coordinator for the school.

Wittenberg University – BA
University of Central Arkansas – MA

Coach Richard Cochran ’91 returned to the Catholic High faculty in the 1996-1997 school year. Entering his 25th year, he teaches world religions to sophomores and American and British literature to upperclassmen. He also teaches an elective literature course students can take for college credit and coaches varsity football as the defensive coordinator. Additionally, Mr. Cochran guides seniors who lead Jocks Against Bullies, a group designed to curb bullying behavior within the student body.

Indiana University – BA English
Indiana University – MS Education

Lisa Conyer joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2024–2025 school year. Mrs. Conyer earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana and began her teaching career in 1985. For nearly 40 years, she has taught college and high school level courses in education and English, including AP English Language & Composition and AP English Literature & Composition, with a particular passion for American and British literature and writing instruction. A former AP Consultant and English Department Chair, Mrs. Conyer is the recipient of the 2011 Stephens Award Recipient in Education and two Jackson T. Stephens Distinguished Teacher Awards. Mrs. Conyer will be teaching sophomore and junior English.

University of Arkansas – BS
University of Arkansas Little Rock – Graduate Certificate

Mrs. Lisa Connell joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2010-2011 school year. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas in Applied Mathematics. She then earned a graduated certificate from the University of Arkansas Little Rock in Applied Statistics. She is currently working on her Masters in Secondary Mathematics from the University of Arkansas. Prior to joining Catholic High, she taught at Mount St. Mary Academy from 1994-1995 and in the spring 2002. Mrs. Connell currently teaches Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, Statistics, and Religion. In addition to her classroom role, she is the quiz bowl coach, coordinator for class ties and textbooks.

Averett University- BS

Mrs. Elicia Davis joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2023-2024 school. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Averett University in Bio-medical Biology. She went on to earn her Collegiate Professional Teaching License through the state of Virginia. Mrs. Davis’s teaching career began in Virginia where she taught a variety of science courses at Hargrave Military School, an all male military boarding school, and Chatham High School. In 2017, she moved to Arkansas to teach at at another private school where she taught both middle and upper school science courses. During her time there she created and implemented a Genetics course, planned and executed a middle school wide STEAM Expo, and was highlighted in Inviting Arkansas’s Women in STEAM article, March 2022. Mrs. Davis will be teaching General Chemistry, General Biology, and Physical Science.

Rhodes College – BA

Duncan Diaz ’17 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2021-2022 school year. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Education. Coach Diaz teaches World History to freshman and English to sophomores as well as serving the head coach for the freshman basketball team, and an assistant football coach.

Arkansas State University – BA
St. Gregory’s University – BA
Christian Brothers University – MA

Mr. Edward Dodge joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2002-2003 school year. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Arkansas State University in History and English as well as a Bachelor of Arts from St. Gregory’s University in Theology. Mr. Dodge also earned his Masters from Christian Brothers University in Catholic Studies. He teaches Religion I: The Creed, English II, British Literature, and AP British Literature. He also sponsors Catholic High’s Theology Club.

University of Central Arkansas – BS
University of Central Arkansas – Doctorate

Kim Dodge joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2014-2015 school year to build a dyslexia program and enhance the Structured Study Hall program. Mrs. Dodge earned a Bachelor in Science degree in Health Science as well as a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She is certified in Dyslexia Therapy by the International Dyslexia Association. Mrs. Dodge is the Title I Literacy coordinator and the ACT special testing coordinator at CHS. Before joining Catholic High, she worked in pediatric therapy for eight years. She has been instrumental in passing literacy laws in the state of Arkansas regarding science-based reading instruction.

University of Arkansas Little Rock – BS

Mr. Tim Ezzi ’72 joined the Catholic High faculty first from 1982-1985, and then again in 1990. He earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas Little Rock in Health and Physical Education. Since being at Catholic High, Coach Ezzi has taught World History, Health and Physical Education and Religion. He has coached tennis, golf, baseball, football, and basketball. He was the head basketball coach from 1991-2013, where they went on to win the state championship in 2008. In 2012, Coach Ezzi became the Athletic Director.

Arkansas Tech University – BS

Mr. Todd Ezzi ’98 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2004-2005 school year. He attended Arkansas Tech University, where he graduated with honors with a Bachelors of Science in Health and Physical Education. During his time at Tech, he was a three year letterman and earned All-Conference honors in baseball. Prior to joining Catholic High, Coach Ezzi took over as the head baseball and head basketball coach at St. Joseph High School in Pine Bluff. In 2004, he joined his father, Tim Ezzi, as an assistant basketball coach at Catholic High, and went on to win a State Championship in 2008. In 2013, he took over as head basketball coach. Coach Ezzi currently teaches Physical Science, Honors Physical Science, and Religion.

On July 12, 1982 Master Sergeant Faria was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil. After completing high school, Master Sergeant Faria enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Private First Class Faria completed recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, SC in September 2001. Private First Class Faria then reported to the School of Infantry (East) at Camp Geiger, NC.
Private First Class completed the School of Infantry in November 2001. Upon completing basic infantry skills Private First Class Faria then reported to Fort Sill, Oklahoma for his Military Occupational School (MOS). Once completed Lance Corporal Faria received the MOS 0811 Field Artillery Cannoneer and graduated top 10% of his class.
Lance Corporal Faria then reported to his first duty station at Twentynine Palms, CA. While at Twentynine Palms Lance corporal Faria was promoted to Corporal. Corporal Faria deployed two different times once to Okinawa, Japan and the second in support of Operation Iraq Freedom. During his deployment to Iraq he received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievements Medal with Combat Valor device and the Combat action ribbon for his actions in country.
Corporal Faria then reported to Quantico, VA where he was promoted to Sergeant and to serve in support of the Basic School.
Upon completing his two year tour in Quantico, VA he reported to 2nd Battalion 11th Marines in California. While At 2/11 he was promoted to Staff Sergeant and conducted 3 deployments. His deployments where 2 to Okinawa, Japan and on in support of Enduring Iraq Freedom, where he served as the Security Chief on a one year deployment. His mission was to serve, advice and assist locals on rebuilding their cities.
Once completed he received orders to become a Drill Instructor at MCRD San Diego. Upon completing school he reported to 1st Recruit Training Battalion where he completed 8 training cycle. Staff Sergeant Faria held the billet on Chief Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor and Drill Instructor.
Staff Sergeant Faria then reported to 1st Battalion 12th Marines in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. While there Staff Sergeant Faria was promoted to Gunnery Sergeant (GySgt). GySgt Faria conducted multiple deployment to Okinawa, Japan and help the billet of Battery Gunnery Sergeant.
Once completed, GySgt Faria was hand selected by his superiors and peers to teach the at MOS school in Fort Sill, OK. While at Fort Sill, OK he held every billet possible from Assistant Director of School to the normal instructor.
Upon completing his tour at Fort Sill, OK he received orders to 2nd Battalion 10th Marines. While at 2/10 he was promote to Master Sergeant and help the billet of Field Artillery Chief. He was the senior enlisted advisor to the Commander on at tactical operation in the Battalion. Upon Completion Master Sergeant Faria retired on May 31, 2021 after 22 years of service. MSgt Faria is teaching the MJROTC class and is in charge of the physical fitness team.

University of Mississippi – BS

Mrs. Shannon Fratesi joined the Catholic High faulty in the 2014-2015 school year. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Mississippi in Chemistry. Prior to coming to Catholic High, Mrs. Fratesi taught fifteen years at schools in Mississippi and in Little Rock where she taught English, pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, biology, AP chemistry, honors chemistry, and general chemistry. Mrs. Fratesi currently teaches general chemistry and geometry.

Westminister College – BA
St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology – MA

Fr. Patrick Friend ’07 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2010-2011 school year. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Westminster College in English and Biology. After returning to Catholic High for one year as an English and Chemistry teacher, Fr. Friend entered St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, earning a M.A. in Catholic Philosophical Studies and a M.A. in Theology of Divinity. While in the seminary, he also earned a Bachelors in Sacred Theology through St. Anselmo in Rome, Italy. After six years of seminary formation, Fr. Friend was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Little Rock in 2018. Bishop Taylor assigned him to Catholic High as chaplain for the school. He also teaches Freshmen English, Sophomore Biology, and Sophomore Religion (Sacraments of Initiation).

Hendrix College – BA
University of Texas Southwestern School of Biomedical Sciences – Ph.D

Dr. Jennifer Gilley joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2015-2016 school year. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Hendrix College in Biology. She went on to get her Ph.D. from the University of Texas Southwestern School of Bio Medical Sciences in Genetics and Development. Prior to joining Catholic High, Dr. Gilley spent five years teaching Biology and Microbiology at the collegiate level. She now has 10 years of teaching experience, and is the Chair of the Science department at Catholic High School. Dr. Gilley teaches Biology and Honors Biology as well as Anatomy and Physiology. She also sponsors the Marine Biology club.

Mr. Matt Golladay joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2016-17 school year. He has a Bachelor if Music in Instrument and Vocal Music Education and a Master of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. Prior to Catholic High School, Mr. Golladay taught elementary school, middle school, and high school band in Illinois, and performed professionally for over 15 years in Illinois and Washington State. Mr. Golladay is the Director of Bands focusing on traditional wind band literature as well as the Jazz and Popular Music. In addition to band, he also teaches Music & Art Survey and Popular Music History, Blues, Jazz, & Beyond. Mr. Golladay also teaches private trumpet and brass in Little Rock, and has for the past 18 years in the Northern Illinois and Seattle areas.

University of Dallas – BA
University of Arkansas – MA

Mr. Tom Handloser ’80 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 1987-1988 school year. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Dallas in English and his Masters from the University of Arkansas in Classics. Magist, as he is known amongst the students, teachers Latin I, II and III.

Arizona State University – BS
University of Arkansas at Little Rock – MA

Mrs. Stephanie Hartnedy joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2002-2003 school year to begin the Stuctured Study Hall program. Mrs. Hartnedy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Masters of Applied Psychology from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Prior to joining Catholic High, Mrs. Hartnedy served as a behavior specialist at Timber Ridge Ranch Neurorehabilitation Center for seven years, assisting children and adults with brain injuries. She teaches structured study hall for those students needing academic assistance to freshmen and Religion to seniors, along with AP Psychology.

University of Arkansas Little Rock – BA

Ms. Britney Houle joined the staff at Catholic High in the 2019-2020 school year. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arkansas Little Rock in Interpreting ASL/English. Ms. Houle is also a nationally certified and state licensed sign language interpreter. Before joining Cathoilc High, she has over 15 years experience interpreting and two years for teaching. She currently teaches American Sign Language I & II.

University of Arkansas Little Rock – BBA

Mr. Ben Humphries ’00 joined the Catholic High family in the 2010-2011 school year. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from the University of Arkansas Little Rock. Prior to joining Catholic High, he worked at Walgreens as a photo technician. Currently, Ben serves as our Facilities Maintenance Manager.

Colonel Johnson began his military career as an AH-1W Cobra Attack Helicopter Pilot and is a veteran of both OPERATION DESERT STORM and OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. His flying career culminated when he was selected to command a Marine Attack Helicopter Squadron with the responsibility of supplying all West Coast and Western Pacific Marine Expeditionary Units with attack helicopter detachments. Following that tour of duty, Colonel Johnson was honored to be selected by Commandant of the Marine Corps to activate and command the first Wounded Warrior Battalion headquartered at Camp Pendleton, CA. The mission of this unit is to provide and facilitate accountability, advocacy assistance, non-medical case management, and conflict resolution assistance to all wounded, ill and injured Marines and their families stationed in the Western US and Western Pacific. Most recently Colonel Johnson served at the Pentagon in the Strategic Plans and Policy Directorate of the Joint Staff where he directed a 42 country portfolio spanning Central, South and Southeast Asia. He and his team of regional experts were responsible for networking with the US Government Inter-Agency, to include the State Department and the National Security Council, and performing intelligence analysis and providing political/military policy recommendations to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Colonel Johnson has over 16 years of teaching experience as a flight instructor and Marine Corps University adjunct faculty member. He holds Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas. His additional professional education includes: Master of Science Degree, National Security Strategy, National Defense University, Washington, DC; Graduate, Marine Corps Command and Staff College, Quantico VA; and Graduate, Aviation Safety Officer Course, Naval Post Graduate School, Monterey CA.
Colonel Johnson is the Senior Military Instructor for MCJROTC and the Leadership Department Chair. Colonel Johnson is teaching the Intro to Aeronautics I and II class.

Ouachita Baptist University – BSE
University of Central Arkansas – M. Ed.

Mr. Bryan Jones joined the Catholic High family in the 2010-2011 school year. Mr. Jones earned his Bachelor of Science Education from Ouachita Baptist University in Mathematics and his Masters in Educations from the University of Central Arkansas. Bryan has taught mathematics in both the public and private school systems since earning his degree. Mr. Jones played collegiate level baseball at Richland College (Dallas, Texas) and Ouachita Baptist University. While in college, Bryan received All-Conference, All-Region, and All-World Series Team honors for his work behind the plate. Since joining the team at Catholic High, Mr. Jones has also been a presenter or contributor to multiple talks at the Arkansas Council of Teachers of Mathematics state conference. In addition to his role in the classroom, Mr. Jones is the head baseball coach for the Rockets.

Northeastern State University – BA

Coach Zac Jones joined the Catholic High Faculty in the 2023-2024 school year. He received his Bachelors of Arts in Business Administration from Northeastern State University. Coach Jones started his career in 2020 at Subiaco Academy where he taught Mathematics. In 2022, he moved to the England School District to teach the Alternative Learning Environment, as well as Physical Education. At Catholic High, Coach Jones teaches Algebra 1 and serves as an assistant baseball coach.

University of Central Arkansas – BA
University of Central Arkansas – MA

Mr. Ryan Lawrence joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2009-2010 school year. He earned his Bachelor of Arts and Masters from the University of Central Arkansas in Spanish. While he was in college, he was a member of the men’s soccer team. Prior to joining Catholic High, he taught English as a Second Language (ESL) and coached the boys soccer team at Fayetteville High School. In addition to his classroom role, Coach Lawrence coaches the cross country and soccer teams. In his spare time, Coach Lawrence has extensive travel experience in Latin America and enjoys running marathons.

University of Arkansas – Fayetteville – BSME

Mr. Paul Lincicome ’03 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2009-2010 school year. He has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas – Fayetteville in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to joining Catholic High, Mr. Lincicome worked as a process engineer at Remington Arms. He teaches our Robotics elective and freshman Physical Science class. He most enjoys sharing his faith with the boys in his Theology of the Body class and serves as chair of the Religion Department.

University of San Francisco – BA
Michigan State University – MLIR
University of Arkansas at Little Rock – JD

Mr. Dave Massery ’77 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2010-2011 school year. Before graduating from the University of San Francisco, Mr. Massery was selected to the Jesuit Exchange program and spent his sophomore year at Boston College and a summer studying at the University of Hawaii. During his graduate studies at Michigan State, he received a scholarship to study labor relations in Sweden at the University of Stockholm. Prior to joining Catholic High, Mr. Massery served as the Vice President of Employee Relations at Alltel and Windstream, the Director of International Human Resources at Alltel, Fidelity National and Winrock International, working and directing human resource activities on six continents. Mr. Massery still maintains his license to practice law in Arkansas and is an adjunct professor of Labor Law at the UALR Bowen School of Law.  Since 2014, he has served on the Educational Advisory Board for the Little Rock Branch of the St. Louis Federal Reserve. Mr. Massery currently teaches World History, Economics, AP Macroeconomics and Religion.

University of Arkansas – BA

Jack McGahee is a 2020 graduate of Catholic High School where he served in a series of student body leadership roles culminating in his election as Student Body President. An honors graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, Jack received a B.A. Degree in Communication in 2024 and continued to demonstrate his unique team-building and communication skills as executive leader of several student organizations while earning the Universities Student Leader Award his senior year.

Jack’s deep love and appreciation of his years at Catholic High motivated him to dedicate his service to the next class of students with the goal of imparting the Brotherhood ethos that led him to such high levels of personal and professional excellence.

Mr. McGahee teaches the school’s required Communications course in addition to an elective course on World War II.

Ouachita Baptist University – BA

Mrs. Deanna McGill joined the Catholic High family in the 2018-2019 school year. She has a Bachelor of Arts from Ouachita Baptist University in Biblical Studies and Graphic Design. Mrs. McGill has over 20 years of experience spanning many different roles in the graphic design field and in teaching art. Mrs. McGill teaches Studio Art and Graphic Design, and the Rocket yearbook.

University of Arkansas at Little Rock – BA

Mrs. Rebecca McWilliams joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2010-2011 school year. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio, TV, and Film Production. Before joining the Catholic High faculty, Rebecca worked at KATV Channel 7. She has 12 years of experience in live TV and film production as well as broadcast journalism. Rebecca teaches the Broadcast Journalism class and oversees the Catholic High TV studio. Additionally, she serves as the student health coordinator and the secretary in the main office.

University of Central Arkansas – BSE & MSE

Mrs. Stephanie Mooney joined the Catholic High faculty for the 2023-2024 school year. Mrs Mooney earned both her Bachelors of Science Education in Secondary Mathematics and Masters of Science Education in Secondary Leadership from the University of Central Arkansas. She began teaching in the Pulaski County Special School District in 1993, and taught and coached at several different secondary schools for 12 years. In 2005, Mrs. Mooney began her next 13 years at Conway High School. She then finished her 30 year public school teaching career at Mayflower High School in 2023. Mrs. Mooney will be teaching Algebra 1, Algebra II, and Finite Mathematics part time.

Rhodes College – BA
University of Arkansas @ Monticello – Masters

Mr. Jake Nestlehutt joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2022-2023 school year. He received his Bachelor’s of Arts from Rhodes College and his Master’s of Arts in teaching at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. In addition to teaching Computer Science/Computer Applications he is an assistant basketball coach.

University of Central Arkansas – BA
University of Central Arkansas – MA

Dylan Owen ’09 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2016-2017 school year. Prior to joining Catholic High, he taught at Watson Chapel in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He teaches freshman English and World History, Composition, and Religion. Coach Owen is the head freshman football coach as well as an assistant coach for baseball and football. Coach Owen is the Concurrent Credit Coordinator for the school.

Davidson College – BA
Lipscomb University – Masters

Mr. Josh Parkey joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2023 – 2024 school year. Mr. Parkey earned a BA in English from Davidson College and a Masters of Education from Lipscomb University. Prior to joining the faculty at Catholic High, Mr. Parkey taught high school in Washington, D.C. and Nashville, TN. Most recently, he taught in Little Rock at Forest Park Elementary. At Catholic High, Mr. Parkey teaches Honors English II, English III, and Journalism. He also helps with the cross country and track teams.

Henderson State University – BS

Mrs. Rebecca Priester joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2017-2018 school year. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry with a minor in math. Prior to joining Catholic High, Mrs. Priester worked as a research and development chemist after college before becoming a stay at home mom. Continuing her education, she studied Russian language at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and received her teaching credentials from Middle Tennessee State University. She taught math and science in Rutherford County, Tennessee for six years before returning to Arkansas to teach AP and IB Chemistry for 16 years at North Little Rock High School. Mrs. Priester currently teaches Honors Chemistry and Chemistry at CHS.

Harding University – BS
University of Little Rock – Masters

Rodney Quillen joined Catholic High as the school’s first staff mental health clinician in the 2023-2024 school year. Mr. Quillen is a Licensed Certified Social Worker and Board-Certified Diplomat who earned his Bachelor of Social Work from Harding University and his Master of Social Work from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Since then, Mr. Quillen has served in various clinical and administrative positions within the Veteran’s Healthcare System, providing clinical services to diverse populations and creating new programs to meet the needs of previously marginalized groups. Additionally, Mr. Quillen is a Behavioral Sciences Officer for the Arkansas Army National Guard. In this arena, he has written and developed Army Regulations, provided innovative strategic guidance at the National level, and advocated for countless soldier and family support programs. Mr. Quillen also served as the behavioral health program manager at the Warrior Transition Battalion in Fort Carson, CO, and as the chief Behavioral Health Officer in Kuwait and Iraq for the 77th Combat Aviation Brigade, educating and supporting over 5000 service members. Presently, Mr. Quillen is the Senior Behavioral Sciences Officer for the state of Arkansas, where he works diligently to ensure force readiness.

Henderson State University – BA
Harding University – Masters

Coach Chip Reeves joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2016-2017 school year. He took a two year sabbatical to help his family in 2020 and 2021 to help with their cattle operation. Coach Reeves earned his Bachelors of Arts from Henderson State University in PE and Health and his Masters in Educational Leadership from Harding University in 2011. He began coaching in 2005, at Lafayette County before heading to Malvern where he was part of the 2008 and 2010 State Championships runner up for baseball and 2011 football runner up. Prior to joining Catholic High, he coached receivers for the Malvern Leopards for ten years. In addition to teaching Health and PE, he is the defensive back coach for the Rockets football team.

Union University – BA

Ms. Carrey Reynolds joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2000-2001 school year. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Prior to joining Catholic High, she spent 26 years in Arkansas public schools as both a classroom teacher and librarian. She is currently the librarian and serves as the drama club sponsor.

Rhodes College – BS

Chris Rose ’08 joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2012-2013 school year. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Coach Rose teaches Algebra 1 to freshman and Honors Geometry to sophomores as well as serving as an assistant coach to the soccer team.

Central Baptist College – BS

Ms. Alejandra “Alex” Sahagún joined Catholic High faculty in the 2020-2021 school year. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Central Baptist College. Prior to joining Catholic High, Ms. Sahagún worked as a receptionist and office assistant for the Diocese of Little Rock and the Catholic Campus Ministry in Conway. She also taught children with autism at a developmental preschool for three years and spent two years as a Youth Minister.

Mr. Paul Spencer joined the Catholic High faculty in the 1999-2000 school year. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. Since being at Catholic High, Mr. Spencer has helped in the attendance office, taught American Government and Politics, US History and Religion. He also sponsors the Young Democrats/Republicans group as well as the Scholar Choral Group.

University of Arkansas – BA
Arkansas State University – MSE Ed.

Coach Kenny Stephens joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2023-2024 school year. Coach Stephens earned his Associate of Arts from Pulaski Technical College in 2002 and his Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Arkansas in 2006. In 2017, he earned his Masters of Science in Education Leadership from Arkansas State University. After an eight year career in Law Enforcement, Coach Stephens began his coaching career in 2007, at Parkview High School. He served as the Social Studies department chair and taught a variety of subjects. He became an assistant football coach at Central High School in 2010. He was the interim Head Football coach at Parkview in 2016, and became Assistant Principal/Athletic Director in 2021. In addition to teaching World History and American History, he is an assistant football coach for the Rockets.

University of Arkansas – BS

Mr. Rusty Wilson joined the Catholic High faculty in the 2024-2025 school year. He has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Arkansas and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Central Arkansas. Prior to joining Catholic High, Mr. Wilson owned his own coffee roasting business. He also has over a decade of experience in the fitness industry. Mr. Wilson serves as the Financial/Campaign Coordinator for the CHS Foundation/Alumni Association. Additionally, he helps out in the Athletic Department.