Longtime Catholic school leader will conclude his tenure at the end of the current school year

Dan Quesnell announced that he will step down as principal of Divine Savior Holy Angels High School at the end of the current school year, concluding nearly 18 years of leadership at the Milwaukee school.

Quesnell shared the news with students following an all-school Mass presided over by Archbishop Jeffrey S. Grob.

He recalled that his relationship with DSHA began Feb. 25, 2009 — Ash Wednesday — when he attended Mass with the school community while interviewing for the principal position. He was introduced to the student body as the school’s next principal May 14, 2009.

“Nearly 18 years ago, DSHA took a chance on a young and relatively inexperienced principal,” Quesnell said. “I was drawn to the school because of its mission: to educate the whole person, to form young women in faith, heart and intellect, and to prepare them to lead a life that makes a difference.”

Quesnell said he came to DSHA hoping to make a meaningful contribution, but found that the community shaped him as much as he helped shape the school.

“Over these years, I’ve come to understand Catholic education leadership not as a profession, but rather as a vocation,” he said. “A vocation to make known the Savior through our decisions, our relationships and countless opportunities we have to help young women discover the gifts that God has given them.”

Quesnell said the decision followed a period of prayer, reflection and discernment. He did not announce his next position or plans but described the transition as “a new chapter of service.”

“I make this decision with peace, deep gratitude and tremendous confidence in the future of DSHA,” he said. “Despite some tears, I am not leaving with sadness about what lies ahead. I am leaving with a heart full of gratitude for what has been and great hope for what will be.”

Quesnell expressed gratitude to DSHA’s faculty and staff, students and parents, as well as the Sisters of the Divine Savior, who sponsor the all-girls Catholic high school.

“For nearly 18 years, DSHA has been my school, my community and, in many ways, my family,” he said. “I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served you.”

Quesnell will continue leading DSHA through the remainder of the academic year. He said the coming months will be devoted to serving students, supporting faculty and staff, celebrating the community and preparing the school for its next chapter.

“DSHA’s future is bright because its mission is enduring, its people are exceptional and God’s grace continues to guide this remarkable community,” he said.

Quesnell concluded his announcement by expressing confidence in the school and the people who will continue its mission.

“I trust the same God who called me to DSHA in 2009 will continue to guide both DSHA and me wherever he is calling us next,” he said.