Head of School search attracts talent, diversity, and depth

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Administrators:

The search for Andover’s 16th Head of School is progressing well. I write to share an update on the search committee’s work over the summer, which has resulted in a strong slate of first round finalists.

Getting to this point has required considerable time and dedication to a process that we believe will result in the trustees appointing the best possible Head of School for Andover. The committee pored over input from the campus community, alumni, and parents, and reflected on conversations that helped shape the position description and school profile. The Andover network alone surfaced more than 80 nominations, while Spencer Stuart touched close to 300 potential candidates from a number of countries.

From the moment we began the review process, I have been inspired by the talent, diversity, and intellectual heft of candidates.

Over a series of committee discussions and individual outreach, we came to consensus on approximately 20 “candidates of interest”. By that I mean, those for whom our school values resonated deeply and whose professional experience and traits aligned with the needs and aspirations expressed by our community.

The committee then broke into teams and fanned out across the country to meet these candidates. Meetings were held in San Francisco, Chicago, Boston, and New York. When we reconvened in August, each group gave a rigorous debriefing of the candidates in their region.

Which brings us to the current state of the search. I believe I speak for the committee that we are deeply impressed by the caliber of the candidates advancing toward our final round, as well as the depth of their interest in Andover. They represent both rising talent and established leadership; the pool is diverse in terms of gender, race, life experiences, and professional pathways. Andover’s values, vision, and reputation for excellence have resonated with a broad and powerful group of educators.

We continue to work to hone this exceptional group. The committee remains focused on presenting to the Board of Trustees those finalists who are best positioned to lead Andover effectively at this moment in its history.

As we progress through the search process, I want to thank the members of the committee and the team of support on campus. I am deeply grateful for their care and purposeful dedication. The manner in which they represent the school—their devotion to the pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning and excitement for Andover’s future—makes a most compelling case for the opportunity ahead.

Sincerely,

Amy Falls ’82, P’19, ’21