Mr. Gunderson grew up in Catonsville, MD, and received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park. It was during his time there that he converted to the Catholic Church, a journey significantly influenced by the writings of G.K. Chesterton. After various work experiences in the industrial technology industry, he transitioned his focus to the mission of Catholic education. Mr. Gunderson loves exploring the wonders of God's creation through mathematics and science, yet his intellectual curiosity extends across the entire curriculum. He believes in fostering a cohesive learning environment where all the academic disciplines are unified by the Truth of Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith. For Mr. Gunderson, the cultivation of wonder through direct engagement with reality forms the foundation of true learning. Outside of teaching, he enjoys playing sports, hiking, fishing, playing guitar, and reading. Mr. Gunderson is excited to join the Chesterton community and share his love of learning with the students.

Mr. Joyce graduated from Marist College with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences. Post graduation he went on mission to Honduras teaching and volunteering with Amigos de Jesus at a children’s home in Santa Rosa region. For two and a half years Mr. Joyce learned Spanish and a new way of life before returning to the U.S. Living with a fellow volunteer, Mr. Joyce worked manufacturing RVs in Idaho for a year, before returning to his home in Massachusetts. He pursued medical lab work and then installation work for an audio, video, and home automation company. Though both valuable experiences, he realized that the most fulfilling work he had done had been on mission and decided to further pursue education of youth. He looks forward to continuing his journey supporting the mission of Chesterton Academy. With his free time, Mr. Joyce will typically be found on a hike, reading, or playing a game of chess.