The Shipley School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian L. Craig as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. Mr. Craig brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in independent schools and a strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and program innovation.

Mr. Craig currently serves as Head of School at Rumsey Hall in Washington, Connecticut, where he has led major initiatives in strategic planning, faculty evaluation, fundraising, and community belonging. Under his leadership, the school introduced a pre-kindergarten program, developed signature student programs, and achieved record enrollment.

Prior to his tenure at Rumsey Hall, Mr. Craig served as Interim Head at Metairie Park Country Day School in Louisiana, where he guided the school through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on enrollment and community support. His leadership career also includes serving as Head of School at Trinity Valley School in Fort Worth, Texas and Harding Academy in Nashville, Tennessee, where he led strategic planning efforts, strengthened diversity initiatives, and expanded campus facilities. Earlier in his career, he held leadership and teaching roles at Westtown School in Pennsylvania and University School in Ohio.

Colin Kelton, Chair of Shipley's Board of Trustees, shared: “Ian brings a forward-thinking vision and a proven history of success in fostering academic achievement and strengthening school communities. Under his guidance, Shipley will be well-positioned to build on its rich tradition of excellence and embark on an exciting new chapter. We look forward to the vision and leadership Ian will bring in the years ahead.”

Mr. Craig holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Syracuse University and a Master’s degree in Secondary Social Studies Education from New York University. He has published articles and presented at national conferences on topics including leadership, philanthropy, and innovation in education.

Upon accepting the appointment, Mr. Craig expressed his enthusiasm for joining Shipley: “From the moment that I stepped onto Shipley's campus, it was clear that this is a school that values its past while leaning into the future, and that all constituents have an incredibly strong affinity for the school. My family and I are honored to be a part of the Shipley community. We can’t wait to immerse ourselves in school life and see firsthand these talented Shipley students and faculty in action.”

In acknowledging the work that led to this appointment, Kelton extended his gratitude to the Search Committee: “We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the entire Search Committee, especially Antonette Dulay-Tiongco, P ’28, P ’31, and Kathy Guy Dawson ’78, for their hard work, thoughtfulness, and dedication in leading the search and guiding our school community throughout this comprehensive process. The Committee’s commitment to finding the best leader for Shipley has been instrumental in bringing Ian to our community, and we are incredibly grateful for their efforts.”

As Shipley prepares for this leadership transition, the community looks forward to welcoming Ian Craig and his family and supporting the School’s continued growth and excellence under his leadership.