Leadership Overview
The Pingry School has 5 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, fiscal control, alumni relations, institutional leadership, and operational management.
Committed to academic excellence and character development, The Pingry School fosters a rigorous college preparatory environment for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12 while maintaining a legacy of educational distinction.
Committed to academic excellence and character development, The Pingry School fosters a rigorous college preparatory environment for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12 while maintaining a legacy of educational distinction.
Leadership Roles at The Pingry School
John Pratt - Chief Financial Officer
John Pratt, the Chief Financial Officer at The Pingry School, manages the long-term fiscal health of the institution. Overseeing the annual budget process, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources align with the strategic goals of the college preparatory curriculum. This leadership role involves monitoring endowment performance and optimizing capital expenditures to support campus infrastructure. By implementing robust financial reporting systems, John Pratt maintains transparency for the Board of Trustees. The Chief Financial Officer also coordinates with department heads to prioritize funding for academic programs and extracurricular activities. Through careful analysis of enrollment trends and tuition revenue, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial stability necessary for the school to thrive. Pratt directs the administrative teams responsible for procurement and risk management, ensuring that all operational activities adhere to the highest standards of institutional integrity and fiscal responsibility.
Alicia Sharma - Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax
Alicia Sharma, the Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax at The Pingry School, executes complex accounting operations and tax compliance strategies. Overseeing the daily financial transactions, the Controller ensures accuracy in all ledger entries and financial statements. This leadership role involves managing the tax-exempt status of the institution while navigating regulatory requirements for independent schools. By streamlining the accounts payable and receivable processes, Alicia Sharma improves operational efficiency across the Basking Ridge campus. The Director, Finance also collaborates with external auditors to verify the integrity of financial data. Through meticulous oversight of tax filings and financial reporting, the Director, Tax mitigates institutional risk. Sharma maintains rigorous internal controls, providing the leadership team with precise data to inform strategic decisions regarding the long-term growth and sustainability of the educational mission.
Katherine Sartorius - President- Pingry Alumni Association
Katherine Sartorius, the President- Pingry Alumni Association at The Pingry School, directs engagement initiatives for the global network of graduates. Overseeing the connection between former students and the current school community, the President- Pingry Alumni Association fosters a culture of lifelong support and mentorship. This leadership role involves organizing regional events and networking opportunities that strengthen the institutional brand. By facilitating fundraising campaigns and alumni giving programs, Katherine Sartorius provides essential resources for student scholarships and campus development. The President- Pingry Alumni Association also coordinates with the admissions office to leverage alumni networks for student recruitment. Through consistent communication and outreach, Sartorius ensures that the values of the school remain central to the alumni experience. This role bridges the gap between historical traditions and modern educational needs, reinforcing the enduring impact of the school on the lives of graduates.
Brian Combias - President
Brian Combias, the President at The Pingry School, architects the overarching strategic vision for the entire college preparatory institution. Overseeing the academic and administrative leadership teams, the President ensures that the mission of character development and intellectual growth remains the primary focus. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities and representing the school to the broader community and prospective families. By fostering a culture of innovation, Brian Combias drives the evolution of the curriculum to meet the demands of modern higher education. The President also works closely with the Board of Trustees to define long-term goals and secure the necessary support for campus expansion. Through effective communication and collaborative decision-making, Combias maintains the high standards of excellence expected of the school. This role requires balancing the needs of students, faculty, and parents to ensure a cohesive and supportive learning environment.
Olaf Weckesser - Chief Financial & Operating Officer
Olaf Weckesser, the Chief Financial & Operating Officer at The Pingry School, directs the physical and logistical infrastructure of the campus. Overseeing facilities management, campus security, and auxiliary services, the Chief Financial & Operating Officer ensures that the environment supports the academic mission. This leadership role involves managing large-scale capital projects and maintenance schedules to optimize the use of school property. By integrating sustainable practices into campus operations, Olaf Weckesser reduces overhead costs and enhances the efficiency of daily functions. The Chief Financial & Operating Officer also collaborates with the finance team to align operational spending with the broader institutional budget. Through strategic planning of campus resources, Weckesser provides a safe and functional space for students and faculty. This role requires constant attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining the high-quality facilities that define the school experience.

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