President
"As a Catholic educator who views my work as a vocation, I am deeply grateful to the community of Norwood-Fontbonne Academy and the Sisters of Saint Joseph for entrusting me with the opportunity to serve the school they love so deeply. It is a privilege to uphold the mission and vision of Norwood-Fontbonne Academy and to amplify and sustain the school’s excellence for years to come. I am enthusiastic about the potential for growth and eagerly anticipate partnering with the Advisory Board, the leadership team, the faculty and staff, parents, students, the alumni community, and the many friends of NFA.”
In December 2024, the General Council of the Sisters of Saint Joseph unanimously affirmed and ratified the recommendation of the President Search Committee and selected Bridget Bonner as the next President of Norwood-Fontbonne Academy.
Bonner officially began her tenure on July 1, 2025.
Bonner brings over 30 years of experience to NFA and a deep commitment to Catholic education to NFA along with a passion for ensuring that NFA remains an outstanding Catholic school committed to the mission, vision and charism of the Sisters of Saint Joseph as a Sponsored Ministry.
Bridget has a passion for Catholic education as demonstrated throughout her career; she stresses the importance of keeping students at the center of every decision, ensuring that each action taken supports their growth and development in academic, spiritual and personal realms. Bonner seeks to live her faith daily, modeling the values and principles that are integral to the Sisters of Saint Joseph’s mission. Her approach as a faith leader is characterized by a deep commitment to and a genuine desire to support the spiritual growth of the community she serves.
Mrs. Bonner began her career in 1999 at St. Norbert School (Paoli) where she served as the Social Studies Department Chair. She later spent time at Imani Charter School (Philadelphia) and St. Eugene School (Clifton Heights) before finding a home at Academy of Notre Dame de Namur in Villanova. Initially hired in 2001 as a teacher in the religion department, Bonner then transitioned to become the Director of Admissions. In 2019 she was named Director of Middle School. In this role, Bonner had a broad range of responsibilities. She also has direct oversight of specific departments in the high school. A critical aspect of her various roles was building and expanding relationships with all constituent groups in the school community.
Bonner received a Masters in Education from Cabrini College and a Bachelor of Science from St. Joseph’s University. She and her husband, Patrick, are the proud parents of sons Bryan and Owen.