Marian Catholic High School welcomed Dominique Bracey as the school’s new guidance counselor and announced that Nicole Dunn-Updegrave will assume a new leadership role as director of student success.

Bracey will work closely with students and families to provide guidance and support throughout their Marian experience. Her responsibilities will include helping students navigate academic and personal challenges; supporting their social and emotional growth; assisting with postsecondary planning; and working collaboratively with faculty, staff and families.

“I am beyond excited and honored to be joining the Marian family,” Bracey said. “I look forward to supporting our students, walking alongside them and helping them reach their fullest potential.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Dominique to Marian,” said the Rev. Robert Finlan, school principal. “A strong guidance program is an essential part of a student’s experience, and Dominique will be an important resource for our students and families. We look forward to the relationships she will build and the positive impact she will have on our school community.”

Bracey is a 2013 graduate of North Schuylkill High School and a 2017 graduate of Penn State University’s Schuylkill Campus, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, with minors in psychology and sociology. She brings nearly a decade of professional experience in individual case management and mental health support.

Dunn-Updegrave is moving into a new role as director of student success. She will help Marian coordinate efforts across guidance, academics, attendance, discipline, student engagement and family communication.

Dunn-Updegrave will also help lead a coordinated Student Success Team that regularly reviews student progress and identifies students who may benefit from additional support.

“Nicole has a deep understanding of our students and our school community, and we are excited about the opportunity to have her take on this expanded leadership role,” Finlan said. “The director of student success will help us bring together many of the people and resources already working on behalf of our students so that we can be even more intentional and proactive in the way we support them.”