Dr. Emily Allen Named as New Dean of Academics

Canterbury School is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Emily Allen as Dean of Academics, effective July 1, 2025. This newly created position reflects the School’s ongoing investment in academic leadership and the continued innovation of its curriculum and instructional programs.

A passionate educator and proven academic leader, Emily brings more than 16 years of experience in independent schools and higher education. Her dynamic perspective—shaped by her work in the classroom, in research, and in school leadership—will further strengthen Canterbury’s commitment to intellectual growth, instructional excellence, and an engaging learning environment for all students.

Emily holds a B.S. in Physics from Trinity College, where she was a student-athlete on the women’s lacrosse team in the highly competitive NESCAC (New England Small College Athletic Conference). She earned an M.S. in Applied Physics from Yale University and an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston University. Her academic journey reflects a deep curiosity and belief in the power of interdisciplinary thinking, inquiry-driven learning, and meaningful mentorship.

Since 2019, Emily has served as Science Department Chair at The Governor’s Academy, where she teaches, advises, coaches, and mentors new faculty. She has led curriculum development efforts, spearheaded faculty training, and played an integral role in strategic initiatives—from hiring and fundraising to launching the Alfond Coastal Research Center. She also mentors a student affinity group and leads faculty DEI programming, furthering inclusive practices in teaching and advising.

In 2024, she assumed the role of Assistant Head of School at SOLA (School of Leadership, Afghanistan), now based in Rwanda. In this capacity, she develops curriculum, mentors faculty, and supports Afghan girls in a dual-language academic setting. Since 2011, Emily has also served as a lecturer and research scientist at Boston University, where she has secured National Science Foundation grants to study student learning in STEM fields and to train future educators in innovative pedagogy.

Her career in independent schools began at Pomfret School, where she taught physics and chemistry and served as a coach, advisor, form dean, and dorm parent. Fully engaged in campus life, she gained early experience in student mentorship and residential education—foundational to the work she has carried forward ever since. She has also coached girls’ soccer and lacrosse throughout her career, continuing a commitment to supporting students beyond the classroom that remains central to her approach today.

“We are thrilled to welcome Emily to Canterbury,” said Interim Head of School Sue Roberts P ’24, ’27. “She brings both experience and heart to her work and understands how to lead a program that asks every student to engage deeply, grow intentionally, and be known by the adults guiding them. I’m confident she will be a thoughtful and inspiring partner to our faculty, students, and families.”

As Dean of Academics, Emily will lead Canterbury’s academic program with a clear focus on delivering a rigorous, thoughtful, and supportive learning experience. She will collaborate with department chairs and academic leaders to enhance curriculum, elevate teaching practices, and uphold the school’s academic standards while supporting the growth of both students and faculty.

We look forward to welcoming Dr. Emily Allen to campus this summer.