Mrs. McDowell first came to St. Margaret’s as a Spanish teacher and quickly became the Director of International Programs and ESL. In 1998, she became the Director of Admissions, organizing fairs, visits, and tours for prospective students and families. She watches each girl’s progress from their initial application to their final interview and throughout their course of study.  Mrs. McDowell also travels to Asia and many other countries around the world, recruiting more great SMS girls.  Thanks to her, St. Margaret’s has one of the most established International programs of any other girls’ boarding school. 

In addition, she is the Assistant Head of External Affairs, working with not only prospective and current students, but also SMS families, alumni, and multiple Boards.   She also serves as an Administrative Cabinet member and represents St. Margaret’s in conferences, community and parent events, and abroad.

She lives on campus with her husband, George, and her two sons, Ian and Kiefer.