Our Faculty and Staff
Administration

B.A. (History) Oregon State University
M.S.Ed. (Educational leadership and administration) Old Dominion University
Heather joined the PCHS faculty in 2018, but she is not new to the school. She is the mother of three alumni ('19, '21 and '23). Heather began her career at Peninsula Catholic as a social studies teacher. After returning to school and earning her Master's in Educational Leadership and Administration, she was promoted to Dean of Faculty and in 2022 she was named Principal. Heather is passionate about Catholic education and loves being a part of the PCHS family!

B.A. (Flute Performance) Christopher Newport University
M.Ed. (Curriculum and Instruction) Liberty University
Ashleigh joined Peninsula Catholic High School in 2022 after serving as an educator in Gloucester County for 17 years. A native of the Hampton Roads area, she is the proud mother of two teenage sons, one of whom is a member of the PCHS Class of 2025. Ashleigh and her family reside in Seaford, Virginia. Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling and camping with her family.

National Strength and Conditioning Association, CSCS 2012
B.A. Christopher Newport University
Coach Chris Harper is a respected, longtime leader in the Virginia Peninsula athletic community. Known for his high-energy leadership and commitment to student-athlete development, he serves as Associate Head Men’s Basketball Coach for The Apprentice School Builders while also working as Athletic Director at Peninsula Catholic High School.
With more than 20 years of coaching experience, Harper’s approach extends beyond basketball strategy. He emphasizes mentorship, personal growth, and relationship-building, helping student-athletes navigate important life decisions while connecting with professors, staff, and the broader campus community.
Harper earned a bachelor’s degree in recreation and leisure studies from Christopher Newport University, where he was an all-conference track and field athlete. He became a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist in 2012.
His coaching background includes assistant women’s basketball positions at Christopher Newport University, The Apprentice School, and Stratford University, as well as head and assistant coaching roles at Denbigh, Tabb, and Grafton high schools.

B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies with an Emphasis in Public Relations (Old Dominion University)
Alana Wett joined Peninsula Catholic High School in August 2025 as the Director of Advancement & Alumni Engagement, bringing 36 years of experience dedicated to helping others. In her role, Alana focuses on raising support for tuition assistance, scholarships, classroom technology, faith formation, student wellness, athletics, the arts, and other programs that enhance the PCHS experience.
Her passion for service began during her college years at Old Dominion University, where she earned a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Public Relations. Over her career, Alana has held positions at several nonprofits and Catholic schools in and around Chicago, always committed to supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference.
“Since 1903, Peninsula Catholic High School has impacted thousands of lives,” Alana said. “I’m proud to contribute to this mission every day.”

B.A. (Social Studies) Saint Mary’s College
B.A. (Religious Studies) Saint Mary’s College
Karen Domzal is a longtime member of the Peninsula Catholic High School community. She and her husband, Jason, moved to Hampton Roads in 2005 and are part of a retired Navy family. They have five children, including four Peninsula Catholic graduates and a current PCHS junior.
PC Clubs /Activities: Interact Club and Student Ambassadors

Melissa joined the PCHS staff in 2016, following a career of bookkeeping for more than 12 years in the construction industry and extensive experience in Customer Service. She has a penchant for fishing, coffee, Mexican food, and relaxing at the beach. Melissa resides in Williamsburg with her three demanding pets; Gunnar, Delilah, and Captain.

B.S. (Criminal Justice) Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA
M.A. (Professional School Counseling) Bradley University in Peoria, IL.
Jade is currently in her third year at Peninsula Catholic High School, where she serves as a dedicated and valued member of the school community. As a licensed professional school counselor since 2019, she brings a strong foundation in elementary education and a deep commitment to supporting student growth and achievement.
Throughout her career, Jade has remained focused on helping students realize their full potential, both academically and personally. Her background in elementary counseling has equipped her with the expertise to foster emotional regulation, social development, and an understanding of how academic success connects to real-world applications.
At Peninsula Catholic, Jade plays an essential role in guiding students as they explore post-secondary pathways, including higher education and skilled trades. She is passionate about empowering young people with the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive in school and beyond, making a lasting and positive impact on the lives of those she serves.
Staff

B.A. (Spanish) George Mason University
Masters of Theology John Paul II Institute
Maria (aka MT) came to PCHS in 2018. As a member of a religious community within the Catholic Church called Women Youth Apostles, she is dedicated to working with young people to promote the Catholic identity of our school through prayer, organization of liturgies, retreats, and service projects. She is passionate about bringing the PCHS community to a deeper relationship with Christ. Maria has worked with middle and high school students in various capacities since college, has taught Theology and Spanish in the classroom for grades 5-12, and served as a volunteer youth minister and Religious Education teacher. She has raised five amazing children and now loves taking care of her grandchildren. In her spare time, she enjoys refinishing furniture.
PC Clubs /Activities: Retreat Team, Liturgical Team

Angel Chapman joined Peninsula Catholic in July 2023 as an Administrative Assistant and now serves as the school’s Marketing Specialist. Before joining PC, she managed the front office of her family’s auto body business and spent four years as a stay-at-home mother.
Born and raised on the Peninsula, Angel brings creativity, strong organizational skills, and a keen eye for design to her role. She enjoys photographing campus life and creating visual content for the school’s website and social media.
Angel is a proud PC parent whose son graduated with the Class of 2026. She also has a daughter entering eighth grade and a younger daughter turning two this year.
PC Clubs /Activities: Theatre Photographer

Certificate (Choreography) from Julliard Extension with Yellowbrick (in progress)
Certificate (Catechesis) Boston College CSTM Crossroads online
B.A. (Arts Administration w/ a concentration in Music History) University Kentucky
Margaret joined Peninsula Catholic in 2023 and is our Assistant Director of Enrollment, where she helps guide prospective families through the admissions process. As a strong advocate for Catholic education, she is proud to be part of the PCHS community and enjoys helping prospective students and families feel right at home.
PC Clubs /Activities: PC Dance, Mass Music Ministry, Parent Mentors

B.S.N. (Nursing) Chamberlain University
A.S. United States Air Force
A.A. Florida State College at Jacksonville
Carley Liberty is originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and recently moved to the area after spending seven years in intensive and critical care nursing. She is excited to begin this new chapter in school nursing. Her certifications include Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Basic Life Support, and Trauma Nursing.
Carley has served in the military for 12 years, first enlisting as a medic and now serving as a critical care nurse. Her favorite person in the world is her 7-year-old son, Harrison, who began first grade this year. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with Harrison and their energetic Australian Shepherd, Grant.

Mrs. Linda Nelson is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and brings more than six years of experience in cafeteria management. She is known for her kindness, sense of humor, and welcoming personality.
Family, faith, and music are an important part of her life. Mrs. Nelson has been married to her husband, Lee, for more than 42 years and is a proud mother and grandmother. She is active in her church’s Music and Children’s Ministries and sings with the Praise Team, earning her the nickname “The Singing Lunch Lady.” She enjoys fashion, shopping, and bringing joy to those around her.

Interpreter Certification
B.S. (Human Services) Old Dominion University
Lisanette has been working as a translator since 2007. She is passionate about bridging language barriers and empowering students and parents to reach their full potential. She also enjoys organizing cultural events that celebrate diversity and foster a strong sense of community.
In addition, Lisanette is dedicated to supporting military families as they transition into their new school community, helping them feel welcomed and recognized throughout the year.
In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends.
PC Clubs /Activities: Dance Team

B.A. (History) College of William & Mary
M.S.L.S. (Library & Information Science) Catholic University of America
Kevin is new to the PCHS family and brings 30 years of library experience working with students of all ages. He spent most of his career as director of the York County Public Library, where he oversaw the acquisition and implementation of online research tools and library technology. A Richmond native, Kevin began his career in education with Chesterfield County Public Schools. Although technology touches every aspect of today’s learning environment, he believes books and other printed materials remain essential to scholarship and lifelong learning. Kevin is married and has three grown sons and seven grandchildren.

B.S. Fashion Merchandising (Texas Christian University)
Robyn joined Peninsula Catholic in 2025, bringing with her 19 years of professional experience. She is no stranger to the PC community—her connection began as a parent when her oldest daughter graduated in 2006.
Outside the workplace, Robyn treasures time with her family, especially her four grandchildren. She enjoys relaxing through cruising, cross-stitching, shopping, and home decorating. A beach enthusiast at heart, Robyn finds peace in long walks along the shore and watching the sunset.
Faculty
- Michael Burnette
- Joyce D’Arcy
- Eliud Encarnación Segura
- Philip Decker
- Matt Eviston
- Lorraine Claire S. Ferrer
- Angela Haggard
- Michelle Horner Grau
- Katherine Lauderbaugh
- Marton Lonart
- Malia Magestro
- Dominique Martinez
- Rob Meisner
- David Penrod
- Carrie Petters
- Mike Pilola
- Marie Prosser
- Jacob Rogala
- Peggy Rogala
- Kelly A. Schulte
- James Stanley, Jr.
- Melanie Weser
- David Williams

B.A. (Animation) Regent University
Michael has been an art teacher for 6 years. He has experience in a variety of both traditional and digital art forms, including drawing, painting, 2D and 3D animation, graphic design, etc. Michael received his degree in animation from Regent University, and has been part of the PCHS family since fall 2022.
PC Clubs /Activities: National Art Honor Society

B.A. (Spanish) Rockford University
B.A. (Music – Vocal) Rockford University
M.Ed. (Special Education Research) Radford
Joyce D’Arcy is a special education teacher in her eighth year of teaching. She brings a diverse range of educational experience to Peninsula Catholic, including teaching at the high school level in public schools, working in a self-contained classroom with students in grades 3–5, and experience with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.
Joyce is passionate about supporting students as they grow academically, socially, and personally. Her faith is an important part of her life, and she enjoys studying the Bible and sharing her faith and love of Scripture with others.
Outside of the classroom, Joyce is a winter diving coach and continues to enjoy diving herself. She is the proud mother of four children and grandmother of two grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with her family, coaching, diving, and sharing her faith with others.

B.A. (Spanish Letters) Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo
M.A. (Spanish) University of Virginia
PhD (Spanish, expected 2027) University of Virginia
A native of the Dominican Republic, Eliud came to the United States of America in 2021 as a doctorate student at the University of Virginia. At UVa, Eliud taught undergraduate courses for 4 years, and has been working on his dissertation on Spanish Renaissance Poetry. Eliud is excited to be part of Peninsula Catholic and wants to contribute to education and the Spanish-speaking world culture in the United States.
In his spare time, Eliud enjoins spending time with friends, reading novels and history books, and learning on traditional menswear.
PC Clubs /Activities: Spanish National Honor Society

B.A. (English Language and Literature) University of South Florida
Mr. Decker enjoys pondering some of life's big questions, like: Why am I here? What is truth? Is God really who he says he is? While much of the culture tells him to come back down to earth, he firmly believes that if the goal is to get to heaven (it is!), then we should spend at least a little time with our heads in the clouds!
Mr. Decker will tell anyone who asks that teaching is his dream job. He is grateful for the opportunity to wake up each morning to work with a generation of young people and considers himself blessed to work with students to answer their own deeper questions about life and who God is.

B.A. (Philosophy and Religious Studies) Old Dominion University
Mr. Eviston earned his bachelor's degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies from Old Dominion University in 2017. He completed his student teaching experience at Peninsula Catholic High School during the fall 2015 semester. Prior to returning to Peninsula Catholic, Mr. Eviston taught Middle School Religion at Saint Agnes Catholic School in Fort Wright, Kentucky, and Saint Joseph Catholic School in Petersburg, Virginia, from 2018 to 2023. He also served as the Youth Minister at Saint Jerome Catholic Church in Newport News, Virginia, from 2017 to 2018.
Mr. Eviston has served in the United States Navy since 2011 and currently serves as a senior enlisted Religious Program Specialist in the United States Navy Reserve. During his 15 years of military service, he spent four years on active duty and has continued serving Sailors, Marines, and their families through the Navy Reserve. In his role as a Religious Program Specialist, Mr. Eviston supports Navy Chaplains in providing religious ministry, pastoral care, and spiritual support while also helping coordinate religious programs and caring for the needs of service members and their families. As a senior enlisted Sailor, he also provides leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior Sailors and supports the readiness and mission of the commands he serves.
For the past four summers, Mr. Eviston has served on extended Navy Reserve orders supporting naval installations, commands, and Sailors throughout New England. These assignments have provided opportunities to support the spiritual readiness and well-being of Sailors while serving alongside Navy Chaplains and command leadership throughout the region.
Mr. Eviston lives in Williamsburg, Virginia, with his wife and two children. He and his family are parishioners of Saint Bede Catholic Church in Williamsburg, where they are active members of the Catholic community. He is grateful for the opportunity to bring his experiences in Catholic education, ministry, military service, and leadership into his vocation as an educator at Peninsula Catholic.
PC Clubs /Activities: Varsity Golf Coach, National Athletic Honor Society Chapter Advisor, Council of Academic Integrity Moderator, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes Coordinator

B.S.Ed. (Physics) Philippine Normal University
Lorraine Claire S. Ferrer, fondly known as Miss LC, is a dedicated Physics educator with seven years of teaching experience. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education major in Physics from Philippine Normal University and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Teaching Physics. Passionate about nurturing young minds, she strives to make Physics engaging and meaningful for her students.
Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that no child should be left behind. She is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every learner is valued, guided, and empowered to reach their full potential, regardless of their starting point or learning pace.

B.A. (History) Christopher Newport University
B.A. (Philosophy with a Concentration in Religious Studies) Christopher Newport University
M.A. (Teaching) Christopher Newport University
M.S. (Film and Television with a Concentration in Sound) DePaul University
Angela joined the PCHS family in 2023 after teaching at the middle school level in Newport News. Growing up in a military family, she lived in many places before settling in Newport News, which she now proudly calls home. She loves traveling and has had several unique experiences while abroad, including being in Rome during the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and the election of Pope Francis, and attending World Youth Day in Lisbon. Angela loves teaching world history—from ancient civilizations to the present—through a Biblical worldview. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, watching Star Wars movies and shows, and spending time with her dog.
PC Clubs/Activities: National Honor Society

B.S. (English & Spanish Education) Indiana University of PA
Undergraduate (Spanish) Indiana University of PA
M.A. (Spanish) Millersville University of PA
Michelle is a native of western Pennsylvania and spent two years living in the U.S. Virgin Islands before relocating to Hampton Roads with her husband. She is the mother of four children and two stepchildren and is a proud grandmother of three.
With more than 30 years of experience in education, Michelle has taught at the middle school, high school, and university levels. She currently serves on the faculty at Peninsula Catholic High School and Christopher Newport University. She holds teaching certifications in Spanish, English, English as a Second Language (ESL), and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
Michelle’s work in education is guided by her strong Catholic faith and her identity as a child of God. She is deeply committed to lifelong learning and has a passion for exploring and celebrating diverse cultures.
PC Clubs /Activities: Spanish National Honor Society, Respect Life Activities via Campus Ministry, and Girls' Cross Country Assistant Coach


B. A. (Mathematics) University of Virginia
M.Ed. (Secondary Mathematics) Old Dominion University
M.A. (Theology) St. Mary's Seminary and University
Math Graduate Certificate (Radford University)
Mr. Lonart has been teaching math at PCHS for seven years. He was motivated to teach by his love of math, youth, and the Catholic faith.
PC Clubs /Activities: Mu Alpha Theta

M.B.A. Youngstown State University
Malia is originally from Hermitage, Pennsylvania, and recently moved to Virginia. She is in her second year of teaching English. Malia earned her master’s degree from Youngstown State University, where she also played Division I basketball for five years. In her free time, she enjoys visiting coffee shops, walking on the beach, and working out.

B.S. (Biology) Old Dominion University
M.P.H. (Epidemiology) Eastern Virginia Medical School
Dominique Martinez joins the Peninsula Catholic High School faculty this year as a biology teacher. Dominique earned a degree in Biology from Old Dominion University and specializes in creating interactive, lab-based learning experiences. With a passion for connecting scientific concepts to everyday life, Dominique strives to foster curiosity and a lifelong appreciation for science in every student. Outside the classroom, Dominique enjoys playing bingo and spending time at the beach.

B.A. (English) Old Dominion University
Mr. Meisner is delighted to take on a new role as a full-time English and theater teacher this year at PC. One of his great passions is performing and this is an opportunity to bring 30 years of stage experience into the classroom. Mr. Meisner has a B.A. in English from Old Dominion University and was previously the PC librarian. He would like to encourage all the students to keep reading and spending time with stories. He lives in Yorktown with his little dog, Murphy.
PC Clubs /Activities: Chess and Gaming Club

B.A. (English) Christopher Newport University
David grew up in West Michigan and served in the United States Marine Corps. He later worked for two years at the Jamestown and Yorktown settlements and completed my student teaching in Costa Rica. He has been a member of the Peninsula Catholic High School community for 33 years.
PC Clubs /Activities: Asst. Coach/Coach for the PC Forensics Team since 2004. Advisor for the Mental Health Club and the PC Gazette literary magazine.

B.S. (Adolescent to Young Adult Education) University of Dayton
Carrie joined the PCHS family in 2024. After graduating from the University of Dayton with her Bachelor of Science in Education, she started her teaching career at PCHS and is excited to continue her journey! Carrie is currently working towards her Masters' Degree in American History and Government. In her spare time, she can be found reading a book in her hammock or building Lego flowers. She is looking forward to a great year!
PC Clubs /Activities: Debate Club Moderator, Sophomore Team Leader

B.A. (English) Virginia Tech
M.F.A. (Creative Writing) Hollins University
Mike is a PCHS alum whose fond memories of English class and running on the cross country team lured him back to the school, where he's been happily teaching and coaching now since 2007. Between grad school and coming back home again, he published stories, did cost analysis, and worked as a technical writer for the government. Even though they all torment him in different ways, he loves his wife, his two kids, and Virginia Tech football.
PC Clubs /Activities: Peninsula Catholic YouTube Charity Club

B.ChE (Chemical Engineering) University of Delaware
M.A.T. (Teaching) Notre Dame Maryland
Marie Prosser hails from Baltimore, Maryland, and joined the Peninsula Catholic faculty last year. She will teach Chemistry and oversee the Latin classes during the 2026 to 2027 school year. She has taught Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, and Earth Science at both public and Catholic high schools. She also has industry experience with a consulting engineering firm in Baltimore. Her life’s journey has taken her from growing up on an apple orchard in York County, Pennsylvania, to living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

M.Ed (Curriculum and Instruction) Old Dominion University
Mr. Rogala is entering his fifth year of teaching. He teaches PE 8, PE 9/First Aid, PE 10/Driver Education, and Strength and Conditioning. He and his wife have two children, a son and a daughter. Outside the classroom, Mr. Rogala enjoys playing and watching sports, staying physically active, and sharing his passion for athletics with his students.
PC Clubs /Activities: FCA

M.A. (Catechetics and Evangelization) Franciscan University
B.S. (Rehabilitation and Human Services) Pennsylvania State University
Mrs. Rogala teaches senior Theology and eighth-grade Theology, as well as the fun elective The Chosen and the Church, where students explore the hit series The Chosen through the lens of Catholic teaching and Scripture. She also serves as the advisor for the Student Council Association (SCA), where she enjoys working with student leaders to plan many of the school's favorite traditions and events, including Spirit Week, Catholic Schools Week, and the annual Junior vs. Senior Showdown.
Passionate about Catholic education, Mrs. Rogala strives to create engaging, meaningful learning experiences while helping students grow in faith, leadership, and community. She is dedicated to making every student's high school experience one they will always remember.
PC Clubs /Activities: Student Council Advisor

A.A. (Education) Community College of Allegheny County
B.S. (Education) Indiana University of Pennsylvania
M.S. (Psychology) Coursework, Divine Mercy University
Kelly joined the PCHS family in 2023 as the Freshman Seminar and Psychology teacher, bringing 28 years of teaching experience. Originally from Pittsburgh, she graduated from Serra Catholic High School before earning her associate and bachelor’s degrees in education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Passionate about psychology, Kelly is continuing her graduate studies at Divine Mercy University. In her spare time, she enjoys cheering on her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers and traveling with her husband and children.

Completion of The Armed Forces School of Music
Bachelor's degree from Western Michigan University
Master’s (Music) Norfolk State University
Jim is extremely active as a professional percussionist, drummer instructor, and music educator. He has an extensive musical background. Jim has toured the United States and the world as a percussionist and jazz drummer while a member of the United States Army Band program. He has performed with The RIOS Big Band (Jazz-Berlin, Germany). The Original Super Band (Big Band jazz - formerly under the direction of jazz legend Frank Foster). He has also performed with Clark Terry, David (Fathead) Newman, Judy Collins, Aretha Franklin, Jr. Walker and the All Stars, Gene Chandler, Frank Mantooth, Richie Cole, Ernestine Anderson, Marguerite Stanley, and Leo Porter to name a few. He has been a percussion/drum set clinician for The Alaska Music Educator’s Convention, The Mid-Eastern Music Convention, and at high schools, colleges, and universities throughout the United States.

M.A. (Pastoral Theology) St. Joseph's College of Maine
B.S. (Business Administration [small business management emphasis]) Chowan University
B.S. (Printing Production and Image Technology) Chowan University
Mrs. Weser joined the Peninsula Catholic High School faculty in 2006 after a career in graphic design. Over the past 20 years, she has taught courses in technology, economics, business, communications, and many other social sciences, inspiring students to make informed decisions, and connect classroom learning to the world around them.
In addition to teaching, Mrs. Weser is the school's Network Administrator, supporting educational technology and helping faculty and students make the most of digital learning tools. She also serves as the New Teacher Mentor, working alongside new faculty members as they begin their careers at Peninsula Catholic.
Mrs. Weser earned a Master's degree in Pastoral Theology and is committed to the mission of Catholic education. She is an active member of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, where she serves on the Pastoral Council and as a member of the OCIA team. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, painting, gaming, and lifelong learning.
PC Clubs /Activities: PC Style Club, FBLA

B.S. (Physics) Virginia Commonwealth University
M.S. (Applied Physics) Virginia Commonwealth University
P.G. (Business Analytics) University of Texas (Austin)
Now entering his sixth year at the school, Mr. Williams continues to enjoy serving the community as a mathematics teacher. Before entering the classroom, he conducted research in theoretical high-energy particle physics and experimental biophysics, experiences that continue to shape his passion for discovery, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Peninsula Catholic High School holds a special place in his family's history, as his father graduated here in 1988. Mr. Williams is grateful for the opportunity to invest in the lives of his students each year and seeks to foster a supportive environment where they can grow academically, personally, and spiritually.
PC Clubs /Activities: Robotics

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