News & Events

Mike Connors begins in 2019-20 as Digital News and Social Media Specialist. He will also coach baseball.

Academic background: 
B.A., University of Richmond
M.A., University of Missouri

Additional experience:
Mr. Connors comes from The Virginian-Pilot, where he most recently served as an education reporter. His education stories twice won recognition in the Virginia Press Association's annual awards. Before covering education, he served in a variety of roles at The Pilot, including public safety reporter, breaking news reporter, and copy editor. Before arriving in Hampton Roads, he was a copy editor for the sports section of The Courier-Journal in Louisville, Kentucky. While earning his master's degree in journalism at Missouri, he served as an assistant night editor for the Columbia Missourian, a daily newspaper managed by professional editors and staffed by university students.

Tell us why you wanted to work in education:
I love highlighting the success stories of students and teachers. Telling those stories for a school rather than a media outlet is a great opportunity.  

What most excites you about working at Norfolk Academy?
The students here are so well-rounded and determined that they serve as inspiration. The staff is welcoming and helpful, eager to spread knowledge about what has made this school successful. And the chance to be part of an athletic program again - my baseball playing career ended in 12th grade - has me looking forward to spring. 

Norfolk Academy is truly unique because...
of its focus on developing character in addition to intellect. By emphasizing the Honor System and volunteerism, it produces young adults who will help their communities in a variety of ways. 

Last books read:
Have a Little Faith: a True Story by Mitch Albom; Believe It by Nick Foles. 

What do you like to do in your own time/when you’re not working?
Relax at the beach; watch the Yankees and Patriots (weird combination I can explain if you're curious); jog; bike; exercise at the gym.

Favorite food?
Pizza.

A movie is being made about your life. Who would they cast to play you?
Mike Connors, who was in the television show Mannix and the movie The Ten Commandments. No relation.

Fun fact students might find surprising:
My first job was as a sports reporter in Vero Beach, Florida, where one of my beats was Major League Baseball spring training. I got to cross paths with celebrities ranging from Roger Clemens and Sandy Koufax to Freddie Prinze Jr. (who sat in the press box one day). 

“When I grow up, I want to be…”
considered just like my parents.