Julie Bean, a student in the Wilkes EdD program, was named the Menaul School’s first woman president and head of school in its 128-year history.
“We are incredibly proud of Julie and her appointment as the first woman president and head of school at Menaul,” said Karim Medico, associate professor and doctoral department chair. “Our doctoral program endeavors to prepare students for this precise scenario that requires the highest ethical practice, the courage to innovate and break new ground, and the strength of character and skill to unite a community around a shared mission and vision. Julie embodies these traits and her work in our doctoral program is a testament to her personal journey of life-long self-development. This will undoubtedly benefit the Menaul School and her future work as their leader.”
The Wilkes doctoral program seeks to provide its students with essential leadership skills and empower them to effect positive change in educational systems. Designed for working professionals, the rigorous yet flexible curriculum prepares educators to leave the program ready to make meaningful change in and out of the classroom.
“I am proud and honored to be part of Menaul’s bright future and I am very humbled given Menaul’s rich and deep history,” said Bean. “I have had the opportunity to meet outstanding students, proud parents, exceptional faculty and staff, accomplished alumni and the committed greater community over the past few months. I can’t wait for us to all work together to continue Menaul’s mission.”
Julie and her husband Mike have been married for 25 years and they have two children, Matthew and Emma.
“As the only full time, international boarding school in Albuquerque, representing over 20 different countries, Menaul is unique in its World Smart Education. At the same time, we’re firmly rooted in our unique New Mexico culture and traditions,” said interim president and head of the Menaul School, David Breidenbach. “Finding the right fit in a dynamic leader that could merge into so much positive restructuring at the school was a huge undertaking for the search committee. Julie Bean is an absolute standout and will lead Menaul far into the future.”
