DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT

A graduate of Seton Hall University, Marissa went on to earn an M.A. in English Literature from Drew University and a J.D. from NYU School of Law.  Marissa pivoted to a career in the field of alumni relations and development after working in publishing and as an attorney. A great believer in the power of education, Marissa worked for three schools before joining Lacordaire as the Director of Advancement in 2021.

Marissa enjoys exploring museums and new cities, walking on the beach and hiking, tending her many house plants, and spending time with her husband, family and friends.

DIRECTOR OF MAJOR GIFTS

Denise Wagner has her BA from Dickinson College, and her MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.  After a 20-year career in corporate lending, she started a new career in fundraising, spending ten years at Rutgers University – New Brunswick. 

Denise joined Lacordaire one year ago, where she is Director of Major Gifts and is working on expanding the financial resources for the school.  In her spare time, Denise enjoys gardening, bicycling, and traveling abroad.

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Nick has a dual role of teacher and assisting with fundraising. As Director of Development, Nick is responsible for uniform sales, lunch operations, school merchandise, and Lacordaire's big 50/50 raffle. As a teacher, Nick teaches French in grades 5-12 as well as Financial Literacy for grade 12.

Outside of school, Nick enjoys riding his bike and motorcycle and playing any kind of racquet sport. Travel is a big love, too. Nick has a childhood dream of earning his pilot's license and recently started taking flight lessons. 

ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATE

Renee graduated from Bowdoin College (a proud Polar Bear) with a degree in Art History and later received her J.D. from American University, Washington College of Law. She began her professional career as a criminal defense and public interest lawyer. While raising her two children, Renee devoted countless hours to local nonprofits as a volunteer and board member.  She joined the Advancement Team in the summer of 2023 and supports our fundraising efforts and collaborates with the Parent Association.

Outside of work, Renee enjoys the outdoors, travel, reading, visiting her kids, and being an active member of Impact100 Essex, a women’s collective which gives grants to nonprofits addressing needs of the underserved in Essex County.