Brianne Foley Named Tabor’s Next Dean of Academics

Tabor Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of Brianne “Bri” Foley as the school’s next Dean of Academics, effective July 1, 2026.

Foley brings more than 20 years of experience in secondary education, including over a decade in boarding schools. She has served in a range of leadership roles spanning curriculum development, faculty mentorship, and interdisciplinary program design. She currently serves as Chair of the History and Global Studies Department at The Taft School, where she has led significant curricular innovation and expansion, including the development of a dynamic, student-centered elective program.

A mission-driven educator and strategic thinker, Foley has also held multiple leadership roles at Taft, including Director of the Global Leadership Institute, Director of the Global Studies and Service Diploma program, and Director of the Taft Summer Enrichment Academy. Across these roles, she has worked at the intersection of academic rigor, global engagement, and experiential learning—helping students develop the skills and perspectives needed to navigate an increasingly complex world.

“Bri Foley has built a long career in independent education helping students reach their fullest potential in and out of the classroom, especially in this age of rapid global change,” says Head of School Tony Jaccaci. “She has a deep understanding of and experience in the residential model of high school education and knows how every moment of the day is a learning opportunity. And it is also very easy to connect with Bri. I know she’ll do a wonderful job as our new Academic Dean.”

Throughout the search process, Foley stood out for her student-centered approach, strong program-building experience, and ability to balance innovation with clarity and practicality. Colleagues noted her emphasis on depth of learning, her thoughtful engagement with emerging topics such as artificial intelligence and experiential education, and her ability to build trust and connect quickly within a community.

“I am very excited to come to Tabor Academy,” says Foley. “For years, I have been drawn to the School by the Sea and all the wonderful things happening there. I am particularly inspired by Tabor’s commitment to both academic innovation and academic excellence, while also prioritizing student well-being in a world where the only constant is change.”

She adds, “At Tabor, I look forward to supporting students throughout their academic journeys and partnering with faculty as they continue to hone their craft. Together, we will build on the values and programs that make Tabor unique, developing globally minded, curious students who think deeply, act authentically, and care for others.”

Foley holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy from Boston College and brings a leadership style grounded in clarity, empathy, and a deep commitment to faculty culture and student growth.

She will join the Tabor community this summer with her husband, Ryan, and their four children: Mia, Elise, Ryland, and Claire. Her daughter Elise will join Tabor as a ninth-grade student in the fall.

Founded in 1876, Tabor Academy is a premier coeducational boarding school serving more than 500 students from across the country and around the world. As the School by the Sea, Tabor offers an exceptional setting for students in grades 9–12 to explore their interests, develop their strengths, and grow as scholars, athletes, artists, and leaders.

The appointment follows a comprehensive national search led by a dedicated committee of faculty and staff, including Helene Sughrue, Will Becker, Aaron Chin, Mary Kate McCain, Sarah Poulin, and Nate Meleo ’95. The committee engaged a strong pool of candidates and brought forward finalists who demonstrated deep experience in academic leadership and a clear alignment with Tabor’s mission and priorities. In addition, sincere thanks to Bethany Daniels for her coordination and support throughout the search.

The school also extends its gratitude to Matt Voci for his dedicated service as interim Dean of Academics this year. His thoughtful leadership and steady guidance have strengthened the academic program and enriched the student experience, leaving a lasting impact on the Tabor community.