Winchester Thurston School is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Grimm as its new Director of Athletics.
Grimm brings more than a decade of athletic leadership experience and a deep belief in the power of school athletics to shape students both on and off the field. Most recently, she served as Athletic Director at Bethel Park High School where she oversaw 28 varsity sports and 12 middle school programs. Previously, she served as Assistant Athletic Director at Bethel Park and Athletic Director at Ringgold High School. In addition, Grimm currently serves on the WPIAL Board of Directors, where she helps guide policies and decisions that support interscholastic athletics throughout western Pennsylvania.
A former collegiate student-athlete at Colgate University, Grimm understands firsthand the importance of balancing academic excellence with athletic commitment.
“Laura’s philosophy reflects the values we live every day at WT,” said Scott Fech, Head of School. “She believes athletics are an extension of the educational experience, and she understands that strong athletic programs are built by supporting exceptional coaches. Her commitment to empowering coaches, partnering with families, and developing the whole student will strengthen our athletic community for years to come.”
Grimm is passionate about creating athletic programs that reflect a school’s mission and help students grow as individuals.
“I believe athletics should serve as an extension of a school’s educational mission by helping students develop accountability, resilience, leadership, confidence, and meaningful relationships,” Grimm said. “I am excited to join the Winchester Thurston community and work alongside our students, coaches, families, and faculty to build on the school’s strong tradition of excellence while creating an environment where every student-athlete is supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.”
Grimm earned a Master of Science in Sports Management, with a specialization in Intercollegiate Athletic Administration, from California University of Pennsylvania, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Colgate University. A Pittsburgh native and Serra Catholic alumna, Grimm earned first-team all-state basketball honors in 2005 and 2006, was named the 2005 Associated Press Pennsylvania Player of the Year, and was inducted into the WPIAL Hall of Fame in 2023.