Inspired to lead St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock into a period of transformation, Dr. Elizabeth Hinton “Sissy” Crowther, Ed.D., was named chair of the school’s Board of Governors in July.
Dr. Crowther previously served as president of Rappahannock Community College for 15 years, after having worked at Virginia Commonwealth University, College of William and Mary, and Lord Fairfax and Blue Ridge community colleges.
“We are excited and honored to have Dr. Crowther as our new board chair,” said Head of School Catherine M. Sgroi P’00. “As an alumna, educator, and dynamic leader, she has the commitment and experience to help St. Margaret’s reach its centennial in 2021 and prepare for our second century of service.”
Attending St. Margaret’s is a Crowther family tradition. Dr. Crowther was a boarding student at the school and graduated in 1975. Her sister, Virginia Ritter, also attended St. Margaret’s, graduating in 1971, as did her mother, Mary Lou Hinton Crowther, who graduated in 1948.
“This is an exciting time for St. Margaret’s,” said Crowther. “The board is energized and attentive, the head of school is making essential updates, we are revising recruitment and retention efforts, and we are reorganizing our assets to focus them on the student experience.
“My goal as board chair will be to ensure the school is fiscally secure for the future, properly branded and marketed for its strengths, and efficiently and effectively run,” said Crowther. “The hallmark of helping each girl reach her potential will remain intact.”
Dr. Crowther is a director at Bay Banks of Virginia, Bon Secours Richmond Health Systems, Northern Neck Insurance Company Inc., Lilian Lumber Company, and River Counties Community Foundation.
She received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Virginia Tech and a doctorate in higher education administration from the College of William and Mary. Under Crowther’s leadership, Rappahannock Community College became one of the most innovative Virginia community colleges and won national awards for its technology use, veteran-friendly environment, and service to industry and the community.
Crowther lives on her family farm in Northumberland County and feels strongly the privilege of continuing to serve her community through her new leadership role at St. Margaret’s School.
