Head of School Transition

Friends Seminary is entering a moment of meaningful transition in leadership—one that honors our past, affirms our present, and looks ahead with clarity and purpose. As we celebrate the legacy of Bo Lauder, welcome Rich Nourie as Interim Head of School, and anticipate Chris Singler’s arrival as our 36th Head of School in 2026, we do so with deep gratitude and confidence in the School’s future.

Following the announcement of Bo Lauder’s planned retirement, the Board of Trustees launched a national search to identify the next Head of School. Guided by the Quaker values that are central to Friends Seminary’s identity, the search process was inclusive and community-centered, drawing upon the collective wisdom and voices of students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and trustees. With the support of search consultants at Carney, Sandoe & Associates, the Board engaged in a comprehensive process of discernment, welcoming finalist candidates to campus and carefully considering community feedback and extensive references.

The outcome of this process reflects a shared commitment to Friends Seminary’s mission and to its continued evolution as a dynamic K–12 Quaker school. What follows is a look at each stage of this leadership transition, with links to the formal announcements and communications shared with our community.