Welcome to 21 Questions With ... our series where we get to know the people who make Purcell Marian special. 

Getting to Know the President of the Parent Club, Carla Horne '96.

If you've attended a football game, volunteered at a school event, or stopped by a Parent Club meeting, chances are you've met Carla Horne. She's often the one welcoming new families, coordinating volunteers, or cheering louder than just about anyone in the stands—sometimes while sporting one of her signature outfits.

As a Purcell Marian alumna, parent of two current Cavaliers (with a future one waiting in the wings), business owner, and President of the Parent Club, Carla believes one thing above all else: Purcell Marian is family.

We asked Carla 21 questions to learn more about the woman behind the volunteer hours, the laughter, and the Family Spirit – here are her responses:

1. Tell us about yourself.

I'm a self-taught carpenter and own my own business, which I started in 2014. I also work as an independent property manager. The flexibility allows me to be available for my three boys—Tyler, a senior; Mason, a freshman at Purcell Marian; and Dylan, who's getting ready to become the next Cavalier.

2. What do you enjoy when you're not working or volunteering?

You'll probably find me playing in my women's softball league, tackling the Muddy Princess obstacle course every summer, or thrift shopping for clothes I can redesign. I love creating something unique.

3. What are you most passionate about?

Authenticity. I want the way I live and the things I do every day to reflect who I truly am and what makes me happy.

4. What are some of your favorite Purcell Marian memories?

Being co-captain of the softball team, taking Journalism, and the friendships that have lasted nearly thirty years.

5. Who had the biggest impact on your time at PM?

Ms. Shauna Murphy. Having her for both English and Journalism made a huge difference in my life, and the friendships I built here prepared me for just about anything.

6. Why did you choose Purcell Marian for your children?

My boys are third-generation Cavaliers. I wanted them to experience the discipline, diversity, and values that shaped me. I was especially proud that they chose PM for themselves.

7. What's different about Purcell Marian today?

Technology! Students connect in completely different ways now. But the values, traditions, and sense of family haven't changed.

8. What surprised you most as a parent?

How much opportunity there is for parents to be involved—and that I'd love to see even more families take advantage of it.

9. Why did you get involved with the Parent Association?

I've always been an involved parent. I wasn't ready to stop when my kids reached high school, and I wanted parents to have a place where they could connect and support one another.

10. What does the Parent Association do?

We bring parents together. We volunteer, organize events, answer questions, help with things like carpools and uniform exchanges, and work to make every family feel connected.

11. What's the most rewarding part of serving?

Helping another parent. Whether it's finding a tutor, a ride, or just someone who understands what they're going through, those connections matter.

12. What have you learned through volunteering?

Every parent is trying to do what's best for their child. Sometimes all someone needs is for another parent to offer help.

13. Why is giving your time important?

Because others did it for me. I watched my mom and other Purcell Marian parents step in for students who weren't even their own. That's the example I want to follow.

14. What keeps you saying "yes"?

My kids. These years go by quickly, and I want to be present for them while encouraging other parents to get involved too.

15. What do you hope families experience?

Support. I want parents and students to know they're never alone—and that being involved should be fun.

16. What are you most excited about this year?

Being Team Mom for football. It's one of my favorite ways to connect with students, parents, coaches, staff, and alumni.

17. What's your biggest goal as Parent Association President?

That every parent feels welcomed, supported, and knows they have a place here.

18. What would you say to a parent who's hesitant to get involved?

Come to one Parent Association meeting. You'll meet great people, learn what's happening, and discover there's a place for everyone.

19. How can alumni and friends support Purcell Marian?

Share your talents. Whatever you're passionate about, there's probably a way it can benefit the school. And don't forget to tell others about all the great things happening here.

20. Favorite Purcell Marian tradition?

The fight song. All it takes is one person to start singing, and suddenly every Cavalier joins in.

21. Finish this sentence: Once a Cavalier, always a Cavalier because...

"...the bonds we create here can never be broken."

Quick Hits

Three words that describe Purcell Marian: Family. Commitment. Honor.

Coffee or tea? Neither! People are always surprised I keep up without caffeine.

Favorite Cincinnati hidden gem? Pleasant Ridge Chili. It was a high school favorite, and I still love introducing people to it.

If you could relive one day at Purcell Marian? Returning from Kairos. It was a day filled with love, tears, and memories I'll never forget.

Want to connect with Carla and the Parent Club? Contact her at parentclub@purcellmarian.org.

Know someone who should be featured on a future 21 Questions with… let us know!