![Rectory School Celebrates Installation of Julie Anderson as Sixth Head of School]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761657632/rectoryschoolorg/s6wxvxmhaxlwljazguaz/HoSInstallation-anderson2025-7.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761657632/rectoryschoolorg/s6wxvxmhaxlwljazguaz/HoSInstallation-anderson2025-7.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761657632/rectoryschoolorg/s6wxvxmhaxlwljazguaz/HoSInstallation-anderson2025-7.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1761657632/rectoryschoolorg/s6wxvxmhaxlwljazguaz/HoSInstallation-anderson2025-7.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1761657632/rectoryschoolorg/s6wxvxmhaxlwljazguaz/HoSInstallation-anderson2025-7.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1761657632/rectoryschoolorg/s6wxvxmhaxlwljazguaz/HoSInstallation-anderson2025-7.jpg","width":2200}])
The Rectory School community gathered in a joyful and historic ceremony to formally install Julie Anderson as the School’s sixth Head of School and first female leader in its 105-year history. The event, held on campus and attended by trustees, faculty, staff, students, families, alumni, and community members, marked a milestone moment in Rectory’s enduring story of leadership, learning, and belonging.
The ceremony opened with a prayer from the rector of Christ Church, Reverend Sandra Cosman, celebrating “a new chapter in the life of Rectory School” and calling for “wisdom, kindness, and courage” for Anderson as she steps into her leadership role. “May laughter fill these halls, may learning flourish, and may every child here be known and lifted up,” the blessing concluded.
A Legacy of Leadership and a Vision for the Future
Nathan Follansbee, a Rectory trustee and member of the Head of School Search Committee, shared reflections on Anderson’s selection from a national pool of candidates:
“Julie emerged as a clear and compelling choice—an accomplished educator known for her warmth, wisdom, and integrity. Her experience, her intellect, and her joy will carry Rectory forward while preserving the school’s most cherished traditions.”
Follansbee outlined Anderson’s impressive background, including more than two decades of leadership at Cheshire Academy, where she served as department chair, head of middle school, academic dean, and ultimately Head of School. Anderson holds degrees from Wesleyan University and Southern Connecticut State University, and also serves as a trustee for the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools, where she contributes her insight and experience to advance excellence and collaboration among peer institutions statewide.
Board Chair Kevin Lewis led the official installation, charging Anderson to “lead Rectory School according to its mission and values—Responsibility, Respect, Honesty, and Compassion.” Presenting the ceremonial medallion, Lewis added, “Together we will build on Rectory’s foundation as we form its future.”
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A Message of Gratitude and Shared PurposeIn her installation address, Anderson expressed deep gratitude and a clear vision for the community’s shared future: “It feels both unusual and profoundly moving to be the one at the center of attention,” she said. “But an installation isn’t really about one person—it’s about celebrating a shared journey, our collective work, our hopes for the future, and the community that we will continue to shape together.” Anderson spoke with heartfelt appreciation for the trustees, faculty, staff, alumni, families, and especially students who define Rectory’s spirit: “Our students are the heartbeat of Rectory School. They remind us that learning and joy go hand in hand. When faculty and staff feel seen, valued, and supported, their light shines even brighter—guiding and inspiring our students every single day.” She also reaffirmed her commitment to fostering belonging and purpose: “At Rectory, the spirit of belonging has always guided our community. We are building a school where every person is seen, known, and appreciated for who they are—and where diversity of culture, language, and perspective is a strength to embrace.”
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A Community of Many VoicesThe ceremony included remarks from students across grade levels, offering words of advice and warmth to their new Head of School. Longtime colleague and mentor Laura Longacre offered a touching tribute, describing Anderson as “a master teacher first and foremost” and comparing her leadership to a “magic cookie bar”—a blend of distinct, essential layers that together create something truly special. “Julie’s leadership will continue to create magic here,” Long said. “She will lead with compassion and grace, honoring Rectory’s history while nurturing its next chapter.”
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Carrying the Torch ForwardAnderson closed her address with optimism and humility: “The stories we tell share one powerful truth—that when we care for one another, we can create something extraordinary. I am truly honored to serve as your Head of School, and I’m excited for the stories we will continue to write together—filled with laughter, purpose, and endless possibility.” As the community joined together to sing the Rectory School Song, the installation concluded not just as a ceremony, but as a renewal of purpose—a celebration of leadership rooted in service, heart, and hope for the future. |