The Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) has reaffirmed its commitment to faith-filled, student-focused leadership with the acclamation of Mark D. Mullan as Chair and Cindy Desclouds-Simpson as Vice-Chair for the 2025-2026 school year.
Their reappointments, confirmed at the Board's Annual Meeting, reflect a shared vision for growth, inclusion, and innovation at a time when the OCSB serves more than 52,000 students across 90 schools, the largest student population in its history.
Chair Mark D. Mullan: Stewardship Rooted in Faith
Representing Zone 8 (Alta Vista / Gloucester Southgate), Chair Mark D. Mullan brings nearly three decades of service to Catholic education. Known for his steady leadership and deep commitment to community, he continues to guide the Board with compassion, collaboration, and faith at its centre.
"It's an honour to continue serving our Catholic community," said Mullan. "As our system grows, so does our responsibility to ensure every student feels valued and supported. Our faith calls us to lead with care and invest wisely in what matters most people, relationships, and learning."
During his tenure as Chair, Mullan has championed transparency, connection, and strategic investment in student well-being and classroom supports, aligning resources with values that reflect Catholic education in action.
Vice-Chair Cindy Simpson: Leading with Heart and Vision
Cindy Simpson, representing Zone 10 (Rideau-Vanier-Rockcliffe / Somerset) and the Board's virtual schools, brings over four decades of experience as a teacher, Principal, and community leader. Her leadership is characterized by a deep belief in the transformative power of education, grounded in compassion and innovation.
"This is an exciting time for Catholic education," said Simpson. "Our schools are growing not only in size but in spirit and creativity. By investing in educators, classroom supports, and new technologies such as AI, we're preparing students to think critically, act with empathy, and lead with integrity in a changing world."
Simpson's focus on Deep Learning and digital citizenship continues to shape a system where curiosity, collaboration, and compassion guide how students learn and connect.
Director of Education Mary Donaghy: Leadership that Builds Bridges
Director of Education Mary Donaghy congratulated both Trustees on their acclamations, noting their continued impact on the OCSB's mission and vision.
"Chair Mullan and Vice-Chair Simpson exemplify leadership grounded in faith and guided by purpose," said Donaghy. "Their steady partnership brings confidence and clarity to our work. Together, they continue to build bridges between students and opportunity, schools and communities, and faith and innovation."
Building a Future Grounded in Faith
As the OCSB continues to experience unprecedented growth, its priorities remain clear: to Be Community, Be Well, and Be Innovative. Guided by the ongoing Spiritual Theme, Open Doors, Build Bridges, Nourish New Beginnings, the Board continues to invest in programs and partnerships that support student achievement, well-being, and belonging.
"Our faith is what keeps us grounded," added Mullan. "It reminds us that education is more than academics, it's about forming caring, capable people ready to make a difference."
