A graduate, former faculty member, and nationally respected educational leader returns home to lead CDH into its next chapter.
Cretin-Derham Hall is proud to announce that Dr. Ben Tierney '98 has been named the school's new principal, effective immediately. Following a national search that drew a strong pool of candidates, Tierney emerged as the clear choice to lead CDH — bringing with him more than 16 years of leadership in Catholic and public education and a connection to the school that spans three generations of his family.
For Tierney, the appointment is a true homecoming. A 1998 graduate of Cretin-Derham Hall, he returned to serve on the faculty from 2006 to 2010 before building an extensive career in educational leadership across the region.
"Cretin-Derham Hall has been part of my family's story for three generations, so accepting this role feels both deeply personal and profoundly humbling," Tierney said. "I am especially grateful for the Christian Brothers and the Sisters of St. Joseph, whose vision, faith, and partnership have built a community that has transformed countless lives, including my own. I look forward to working alongside our students, families, faculty, alumni, and supporters as we continue this extraordinary and critical mission together."
A Proven Educational Leader
Tierney earned his bachelor's degree from St. John's University before completing both a master's degree and a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction at the University of Minnesota. Since leaving CDH in 2010, his career has included serving as Interim School Leader and Director of Instruction at KIPP Minnesota, Response to Intervention Manager in Minneapolis Public Schools, and Division Director and later Director of Curriculum & Instruction at Visitation School from 2014 to 2021. He has also taught future educators as a faculty member at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and the University of Wisconsin–River Falls.
Most recently, Tierney served as Director of Excellence for the Catholic School Center of Excellence (CSCOE) before launching an independent educational consulting practice, partnering with schools throughout the region — including CDH, where he provided faculty professional development and instructional coaching. His work has earned him a strong reputation for advancing instructional excellence, faculty development, accreditation, organizational strategy, and healthy school culture.
"Throughout the process, it became increasingly clear that Dr. Tierney's leadership, educational vision, collaborative spirit, and deep understanding of the Cretin-Derham Hall mission uniquely positioned him to lead our school into its next chapter," said President Jeb Myers.
Myers expressed appreciation to the Principal Search Committee for its work throughout the selection process: Jennifer Grenardo; Sandy Kane; Alex Nuy; Br. Michael Phipps, FSC; Lisa Prescott-Williams; Col. Joe Scrocca; and Sean Van Gemert '96.
Honoring a Legacy of Leadership
The announcement also marks a moment of gratitude for retiring Principal Mona Passman, whose 26-year career at CDH — including 15 years as principal — impacted generations of students.
"She faithfully lived our mission and strengthened our community," Myers said. "We are grateful for her remarkable leadership and look forward to welcoming her back to campus as an honored member of our Raider family."
As CDH welcomes Dr. Tierney, Myers is confident the school is well-positioned for the future.
"I am thrilled to work alongside Dr. Tierney, our dedicated faculty and staff, and the entire Cretin-Derham Hall community as we continue providing an outstanding Catholic education to the students entrusted to our care," Myers said. "Guided by the charisms of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and the Christian Brothers, we remain committed to preparing young people to lead lives of faith, purpose, and service. Our future is bright!"
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