Mary Holzerland, (left) principal of Cardinal O'Hara High School, goes over school and project details with Jill Monaco, newly named assistant principal.

TONAWANDA ­- The term "transition year" has a fresh meaning at Cardinal O'Hara High School as the new school year approaches.

Jill Monaco, who served as principal of Immaculata Academy in Hamburg since 2010, has been named full-time assistant principal.

Prior to being principal at Immaculata, Monaco was assistant principal for 10 years. She holds master of science degrees in education and educational leadership from Canisius College, as well as a bachelor's degree in psychology from SUNY Oswego.

"Mrs. Monaco's past administrative experience in a Franciscan-based high school program makes her an outstanding addition to the Cardinal O'Hara school community," said Principal Mary Holzerland of Monaco's appointment.

Also joining the O'Hara family from Immaculata is Mark Huoh, full-time technical coordinator. Holzerland commented, "Mr. Huoh's expertise in technology and experience in a high school setting will be invaluable in his new role at O'Hara."

Stacy Sheuneman, a new physics teacher, has a bachelor of science degree in molecular, cellular and developmental biology from Yale University and a master of education and science education in biology, physics and general science from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

"We look forward to seeing Ms. Scheuneman share her passion for science with the students in her classroom programs," Holzerland said.

Also in the science department, Joseph Smith, Ph.D. will return as a full-time instructor of engineering and AP biology. Smith earned his Ph.D. in molecular biology and electrophysiology from Buffalo State College. He has received post doctorate fellowships from Roswell Park Cancer Institute and SUNYAB.

"We are excited about Dr. Smith's new engineering program," stated the principal. "He intends to use his experience, as a former Navy aviation electronics technician, to enhance the engineering department's program offerings at Cardinal O'Hara High School."

The transition in the athletic department was recently completed with the retirement of longtime coach and athletic director Angelo Sciandra. Sciandra's successor is Brian Lamping, who joined the O'Hara faculty in 2007, teaching career and finance and computer tech classes in addition to coaching boys' volleyball. Lamping is the coordinator of the Performing Arts Center, managing all events that take place there.

Lamping received his bachelor's degree, in business administration, from Buffalo State College and is currently completing his master of science degree in business education at Canisius College. Holzerland stated, "Mr. Lamping brings his love of sports, experience as a coach and dedication and thorough knowledge about the Cardinal O'Hara High School experience to his new position."