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Foxcroft Announces New Head of School
Foxcroft Announces New Head of School
The Foxcroft School Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Dr. Lisa Kaenzig as Foxcroft’s next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025.
Following a comprehensive, nationwide search, the Board endorsed the unanimous recommendation of the Search Committee. Kaenzig will be Foxcroft’s 11th Head of School.
Kaenzig has a doctorate from The College of William & Mary in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership. She currently serves as the Dean of Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation & Director of the Centennial Center at Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Through her professional experience and career path, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to educating young women. Over a 21-year career at William Smith College, the women’s college within Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS), she spent 14 years as the dean of first-year women and seven years as the Dean of the College, where she demonstrated a lifelong commitment to fostering community and supporting students’ academic and personal growth.
“Dr. Kaenzig brings a wealth of experience and passion for advancing educational excellence, inclusion, and opportunities for young women,” said Board Chair Natalie Wiltshire ’95. “We are confident that her vision and dedication will usher Foxcroft into an exciting new era.”
In addition to her doctorate, Kaenzig holds a master’s degree in human resource development from The George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Rutgers University.
Throughout her career, Kaenzig has actively promoted women’s participation in politics and government service, including serving as the chair of the board of directors for the Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN), a national organization based in Washington dedicated to encouraging young women to engage in the public policy process.
She has dedicated her research to understanding the needs of K–12 gifted students, particularly girls, and advancing women in STEM fields. Her work has consistently aligned with this mission and underscores her dedication to providing an inclusive and empowering environment for young women.
“My career has been devoted to the advancement of educational and leadership experiences for girls and young women,” Kaenzig said. “I look forward to this next chapter at Foxcroft. I am excited to join a talented team and a devoted community of alumnae, Board of Trustee members, and Foxcroft families, as we strive to advance the impactful experience of a Foxcroft education for the girls of today and those who will join us in the future.”
In May, 2024, the Board announced the retirement of current Head of School Cathy McGehee at the end of the 2024-25 school year, as well as the formation of the Head of School Search Committee.
As part of a long-term succession plan, McGehee will work closely with Kaenzig and the Board of Trustees to ensure a smooth transition. A transition committee comprised of trustees, administrators, faculty, and staff will also support Kaenzig as she steps into this leadership position at Foxcroft.
Kaenzig is married to Dr. Christine de Denus, Department Chair and Associate Professor of Chemistry at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Together, they have raised two adult daughters, Morgan and Madison.
