Mrs. Cruise is a 1989 graduate of Parklane Academy. She earned an Associate of Arts degree from Southwest Mississippi Community College, a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of Southern Mississippi, a master’s degree in Math Education from William Carey University, and an Independent School Administration Certification from MAIS/DSU.

With 30 years of experience in education, Mrs. Cruise has served in several MAIS schools throughout her career, including previous years at Lamar School. She is widely respected for her dedication to academic excellence, student development, and Christian education.

Mrs. Cruise and her husband, Russell, have two daughters. Their daughter Karli, a 2016 Lamar graduate, is a pharmacist in Woodville, Mississippi. Their younger daughter, Sydni, recently graduated from Silliman Institute and will attend Southwest Mississippi Community College this fall to pursue a degree in elementary education. The Cruise family are active members of Mars Hill Baptist Church in Summit, Mississippi.

Mrs. Cruise shared her excitement about returning to Lamar, saying, “Lamar maintains the standards I hold dear as a parent and teacher. I am filled with hope when I walk the halls of Lamar. Students are challenged and encouraged to reach their God-given potential.”

She and her husband also fondly remember their previous time in Meridian and are excited to once again be part of the Lamar community. Mrs. Cruise credits Lamar with helping lay the educational foundation that prepared her daughter for success in earning a pharmacy degree.

Lamar School is excited to welcome Mrs. Cruise back to campus and looks forward to the leadership, experience, and passion for Christian education she will bring to the Upper School.