Ed Condon Q&A

Ed Condon (PhD ‘09) is retiring after more than 35 years in education, including serving as superintendent of River Forest School District 90 since 2011. Before joining District 90, he served for eight years as principal of Butler Junior High School in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Condon began his career as a high school social studies teacher in Virginia after earning a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Richmond. During his tenure at District 90, he led numerous initiatives, including facility improvements, curriculum enhancements, the implementation of full-day kindergarten, and expanded school safety and security measures.

He earned a doctorate in educational administration from Loyola University Chicago.

As part of our "Four Loyola Alumni Reflect on Careers in Education" series, Condon reflects on a career dedicated to learning, leadership, and service, as well as the lasting influence of Loyola’s commitment to social justice.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education, and how did your experience at Loyola and the School of Education shape that path?

Wanting to inspire students toward a lifetime of learning was the impetus, but understanding the extraordinary impact that a focus on social justice can have on a school community was the greatest gift I received from my Loyola education.

What is one moment or accomplishment in your career that stands out as especially meaningful to you?

Helping our learning community to embrace a commitment to belongingness and equity has been highly rewarding, and also impactful on our school culture of excellence in teaching and learning.

How did your time in the School of Education prepare you for leadership as a superintendent?

It provided an excellent balance of technical preparation with the opportunity to build relationships with other educators. 

What advice would you give current students or aspiring school leaders?

I would advise them to feel confident that their Loyola preparation will guide them and provide them with the skills, competencies and assets they need to be their best educator selves and serve the students and families in their charge.

As you retire, what reflections do you have on your career and your connection to Loyola?

How fortunate I have been to be an educator and work in service of others! It has been deeply rewarding, in so many ways.