Akerman named principal at OLV Catholic

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School has named J. Mark Akerman as principal, effective July 1. Akerman succeeds Sandra Roden, who is retiring after 19 years as principal and a combined 38 years in education in the Diocese of Birmingham.

“Mr. Akerman has devoted his career to Catholic education and brings to OLV extensive experience in Catholic schools, including 17 years in administration,” commented Msgr. Paul Rohling, V.G. Pastor of Our Lady of the Valley.

During his career, Akerman has been a leader of Catholic preschool, elementary and middle school programs. He holds two degrees from Appalachian State University, and has a masters degree in Education Administration and Supervision from Florida A&M University.

Akerman has been married to his wife, Angie, for 28 years, and they have two children: Cole, 18, and Emma, 11.

Akerman will become the school’s fourth principal in its 29-year history.

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School has twice been named a U.S. Department. of Education Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. For more, visit olvbirmingham.com.