Lorraine Shepherd returns to the Sacred Heart Nativity and Our Lady of Grace community as a mission-driven, Spirit-led educator whose leadership has long been shaped by a deep commitment to faith, academic excellence, and cura personalis. Having previously served as Principal for more than seven years (2015-2022), Lorraine is honored to return during this Jubilee year as Sacred Heart Nativity celebrates its 25th anniversary and Our Lady of Grace marks 20 years of transformative education.
An experienced Catholic educator and instructional leader, Lorraine began her career in the Diocese of San Jose, teaching at both St. Lawrence and St. Martin of Tours before first joining the Nativity community in 2015. Since departing in 2022 to pursue broader opportunities in education and leadership formation, she has remained deeply connected to the Nativity mission through alumni mentorship, Jesuit formation work, and educational leadership across the Bay Area and beyond.
At Santa Clara University, Lorraine taught in the CatMAT and EXCEL teacher preparation programs within the School of Education and Counseling Psychology and continues to serve as a quarterly adjunct lecturer in the LEAD Scholars Program, accompanying first-generation college students in their academic and personal journeys. Her professional work has focused on forming educators who are both mission-centered and grounded in strong instructional practice.
Currently, Lorraine serves as an instructional coach and consultant for schools throughout the Diocese of Oakland, mentoring both new and veteran teachers in curriculum design, instructional alignment, classroom management, equitable teaching practices, and support for diverse learners. Her work reflects a deep commitment to developing thriving classrooms where every student is known, challenged, and supported.
Lorraine’s leadership continues to be deeply rooted in Ignatian spirituality and Jesuit education. She serves as a board member for El Retiro, the Jesuit Retreat Center of Los Altos, and mentors aspiring school leaders nationwide through the Jesuit Schools Network Seminars in Ignatian Leadership. Leading retreats and accompanying educators and young people in faith formation have become some of the most meaningful dimensions of her ministry.
Above all, Lorraine considers it a profound privilege to return to a community that has remained close to her heart—a community whose mission continues to inspire hope, transformation, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.
Sacred Heart is thrilled to welcome Lorraine back HOME!