Finding Cary Academy's next exceptional leader

Head of School Search

Following an extraordinary tenure, Head of School Dr. Mike Ehrhardt will retire at the conclusion of the 2026–2027 academic year. This page will serve as the central hub for updates and information about the search process. Here, you’ll find news, key milestones, and opportunities for the Cary Academy community to share feedback and stay engaged as we identify the next visionary leader to guide CA into its future.

Read the Position Statement

PARTNERS

Our Search Partner

We’re pleased to partner with RG175, a specialist leadership search firm for independent schools, with deep expertise in listening, tailored processes, and the recruitment of diverse, mission-focused heads of school. Together, we’re committed to identifying a leader who will further the mission and values of Cary Academy.

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Robert Henderson

Bob Henderson is a veteran independent school leader and consultant, following 37 years in education, including 17 as Head of School at Noble and Greenough. He has guided more than 40 schools and nonprofits in …

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Tom Olverson

In his ten years with RG175, Tom has completed 31 searches and mentored over 15 heads of school. A major thought leader in independent school education, he is the author of Leading Through Strategy.

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Marcia Spiller

Marcia Spiller is a nationally recognized school leader and former Senior VP at Woodward Academy. A past NAIS board chair, she has advanced educational excellence through decades of leadership, accreditation, a…

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Search Committee

Our Search Committee

Monica Udell

Chair of Search Committee

CA Board Member 2011-current
Board Chair, 2013-2019
P ’10, ’15

Jeremy Allen

CA Board Member 2023-current
Class of 2003
P ’32

Trude Bate

CA Board Member, 2019-current
Current Board Chair
P ’22

Joan Davis

CA Board Member, 2020-current
P ’14, ’24

Aleta Payne-McClenney

CA Board Member, 2021-current
P ’16

Fernando Pulido

CA Board Member, 2025-current
P ’25, ’26, ’28, ’30

Step 1

October 2025

Dr. Trude Bate, Board Chair, announces Head of School Dr. Mike Ehrhardt’s intention to retire at the end of the 2026-2027 academic year.

RG175 contracted as partner in search process.

Search committee, led by Monica Udell, is convened.

Step 2

November 2025

Community-wide online Head of School search survey launches.

In mid-November, RG175 consultants visit CA for onsite community-member interviews.

Position statement published.