- Details
- Category: Past Issues
THOMPSON — On June 27 Joseph Hanrahan began his job as the 12th head of school at Marianapolis this summer, officially assuming his post at the 85-year-old college prep school.
Hanrahan characterizes the past few weeks as “busy but energizing,” and said he has spent his time meeting as many constituents as possible – students, parents, and alumni - to prepare for the next school year with faculty and staff. “The individuals I have met have impressed me with their dedication and caring for the students and the school,” he adds.
Hanrahan has experience in all aspects of private school life as a teacher and administrator, most recently serving as associate head of school for Development and Alumni at Cheshire Academy in Cheshire. During his 17 years at Cheshire, Hanrahan taught history and worked as dean of Student Affairs, dean of Residential Life, director of Summer Programs, and Alumni & Development Major Gifts Officer and coached basketball, baseball, golf, and soccer. He left Cheshire for three years, 2006-2009, to serve as director of Development for the School of Engineering and assistant vice president for Development at UConn Health Center. He has a master’s in history from Providence College and a MBA from UConn.
Hanrahan said he was drawn to Marianapolis for its quality academics and amazing community, continuing, “It is rare to find a private, independent, Catholic school that welcomes and unites students from various cultures. Marianapolis is a caring, loving community where students from 35 local communities and 15 countries come together to learn and grow and become successful adults. I respect what Marianapolis stands for, and my role here is to honor that tradition and culture.”
Opening day of School at Marianapolis is Sept. 2, although faculty and students begin arriving on campus a week prior. Hanrahan spoke proudly of the dedication of students and athletes who have already reunited on campus for captains’ practices and school year preparations. “I am excited for the students and faculty to return, and see Marianapolis’ classrooms, halls and athletic fields filled with learning and activity.”
Hanrahan has worked closely with outgoing Headmistress Marilyn S. Ebbitt, who he said has been and continues to be an invaluable resource. “Over the past six months we have met and talked often. She has graciously introduced me to the community, hosting dinners in her home. I am honored to follow in the footsteps of such a transformative leader.”
“This school is a gem,” Hanrahan said, “and I am looking forward to building on its track record of success and its strengths while embracing the warmth and genuineness of the community.”