O'Gorman High School Names New Principal

Dawn Hoeke to succeed retiring Joan Mahoney after 36 years at the school

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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O'Gorman High School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota has appointed Dawn Hoeke as its new principal, succeeding Joan Mahoney who is retiring after 36 years with the school. Hoeke has over 30 years of experience in education and a lifelong Catholic background.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new principal at O'Gorman High School, a prominent Catholic school in Sioux Falls, is an important transition for the institution as it looks to build on its legacy under new leadership focused on upholding the school's Catholic values and student-centered approach.

The details

Dawn Hoeke will take over as principal of O'Gorman High School, replacing Joan Mahoney who is retiring after 36 years at the school. Hoeke previously served as the superintendent of the Oldham-Ramona Rutland School District, and the school board minutes show she read her resignation to that board on February 9th. In a statement, Hoeke expressed gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to become part of the "Bishop's O'Gorman Catholic Schools family" and lead the school with "humility and confidence".

  • On February 9th, Hoeke resigned from her position as superintendent of the Oldham-Ramona Rutland School District.
  • Hoeke will succeed Joan Mahoney as principal of O'Gorman High School.

The players

Dawn Hoeke

The new principal of O'Gorman High School, with over 30 years of experience in education and a lifelong Catholic background.

Joan Mahoney

The retiring principal of O'Gorman High School after 36 years at the school.

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What they’re saying

“After much prayer and thoughtful discernment, I feel truly led to this moment. I am grateful and excited for the opportunity to become a Knight! With humility and confidence, I believe God is calling me to live out my faith in service and leadership at O'Gorman High School. I look forward to building meaningful relationships and becoming part of the Bishop's O'Gorman Catholic Schools family.”

— Dawn Hoeke, Incoming Principal (KELOLAND)

The takeaway

The appointment of Dawn Hoeke as the new principal of O'Gorman High School represents a transition of leadership at the prominent Catholic institution, with Hoeke's experience and faith-based approach expected to build on the school's legacy of upholding Catholic values and providing a student-centered education.