Fine and Performing Arts Department Chair / Executive Assistant to the Head of School
Bachelor of Arts in Communications, William Paterson University
Mrs. Joanne Oakum joined MMI in 2007 as a valued member of the Front Office Staff following the closure of Bishop Hafey High School where she had been working as the Executive Assistant to the Principal for five years. One year later in 2008, she was promoted to the role of Executive Assistant to the Head of School, a position she has held with distinction for over 15 years.
In her current critical role, Mrs. Oakum oversees a wide range of responsibilities that are integral to the smooth operation of the School. Her key duties include: providing vital administrative support to MMI’s Head of School and Board of Directors, planning MMI’s annual Commencement exercise, coordinating all student bussing and student transportation logistics, and managing the procurement of textbooks and school supplies. She has served as the Theatre Program Director since 2008 and has directed 25 productions for the School to date. In 2024, she added Fine and Performing Arts Department Chair to her list of titles.
Prior to her position at Bishop Hafey, Mrs. Oakum taught art and music to grades PK-8 at Saint Mary’s School in Wharton NJ from 1993-2001. She also served as the school’s part-time Development Director from 1999-2001.
Mrs. Oakum is a Cantor and choir member of Saint John Bosco Church music ministry and a member of the SJB Liturgy Committee. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Hazleton Concert Series, and is the current President of the Drums Lioness Lions Club.
Mrs. Oakum resides in Conyngham and is the proud mother of four sons, two of whom attended MMI, and a daughter-in-law: Dan Oakum, Joe Oakum, James Oakum ’08, Matt Oakum ’11 and his wife, Marissa Oakum.