SMHC is pleased to announce the appointment of Katherine (Kate) Callahan to our Board of Directors.

Kate has served as Principal of the Mary C. Dondero Elementary School in Portsmouth, NH, since 2010. During her tenure, she has led a wide range of academic, operational, and community initiatives designed to support student success and strengthen family engagement. Prior to joining the Portsmouth School Department, she served as the educational program director at Hill View Montessori Charter School in Haverhill, MA.

In 2023, Dondero Elementary School was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School, an esteemed honor that highlighted Principal Callahan’s strong leadership and commitment to excellence.

SMHC President & CEO Jay Couture shared, “We are delighted to welcome Kate to our Board of Directors. Her deep understanding of student and family needs will bring valuable insight, and her leadership will further strengthen our longstanding partnership with the City’s school department.”

Kate attended the University of New Hampshire and later earned a master’s degree in education from Endicott College. She also completed a certificate of advanced graduate study (CAGS) at Plymouth State University. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she previously served on the board of the Child Advocacy Center of Rockingham County and is an active volunteer with Red’s Good Vibes.