In Memory of MaryAnne Dukas
MaryAnne Dukas, Former CBA Head of School (1994-2013)
MaryAnne Dukas served as Chesapeake Bay Academy’s Head of School for two decades, beginning in 1994. During her visionary leadership, she transformed the school in ways that continue to benefit students and families today. She expanded Chesapeake Bay Academy to serve students in kindergarten through 12th grade, guided the school to achieve Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS) accreditation, and led the remarkable transition from rented facilities to the school’s permanent campus.
Throughout her career, MaryAnne was a steadfast advocate for students whose learning needs were too often overlooked. She believed every child deserved the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, and she dedicated her life to expanding educational opportunities for underserved and marginalized communities. Her leadership helped establish the strong foundation upon which Chesapeake Bay Academy continues to build today.
Beyond CBA, MaryAnne generously shared her talents with the Hampton Roads community, serving as both a board member and Chair of the Urban League of Hampton Roads. In retirement, she embraced new adventures with the same enthusiasm that defined her professional life, enjoying travel, competitive dog showing, and operating a retail business.
We extend our deepest condolences to her husband, Mark Sears; her daughter, Kara von Dresner, and her fiancé, Bryce Reeves; her son, Geordie Dukas, and his wife, Sarah; and her beloved grandchildren, Zoe, Xander, and Nikolas Dukas.
MaryAnne’s legacy lives on in the thousands of students whose lives have been changed by the school she helped shape. We are profoundly grateful for her years of service and the enduring impact she made on Chesapeake Bay Academy and the broader community.
In lieu of flowers, her family encourages donations to causes that continue her lifelong commitment to advancing opportunities for underserved and marginalized individuals.