Karry Kim ‘25
After the six-month search for our next Head of School, St. Mark's officially announced the appointment of Ivory D. Hills on July 31, 2023. Dr. Hills will start his tenure as Head of School on July 1, 2024, as our current Head, Mr. Warren, steps down after 18 years of dedicated service at the end of this school year. During his time here, Mr. Warren established various initiatives, including the Center of Innovation in Teaching and Learning, Lion Term, Taft STEM Research Fellowship, and the Global Citizenship program. Throughout his career, Mr. Warren has played an integral role in fostering our “intentionally small, thinking big” community, emphasizing three core values: intellect, character, and leadership. Dr. Hills will succeed and continue his achievements and legacy at St. Mark’s.
Dr. Hills has been working in the Deerfield School since 2011, first teaching in the science department to eventually serving as director of sustainability, director of the KIPP STEP Summer Program, academic dean, and assistant head of school for academic affairs. Before joining the independent school system, Dr. Hills was a research chemist at Merck Research Laboratories, where he studied drug development for Alzheimer's, migraines, schizophrenia, and colorectal cancer. He expresses that his experience in the science field has promoted his teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, commended by the board of trustees.
Dr. Hills emphasizes the balance of a tight community while highlighting the unique qualities of each individual. In a letter to our community, he writes, "It is an honor to serve all of you as the next head of St. Mark’s School. Education has always been important to me, and I am elated that I will soon work with all of you to help students grow into their full potential. As the world becomes more interconnected and complex, astounding opportunities await all of us. Helping guide St. Mark’s is a true privilege.”