A Familiar Face, A Bold Future
Welcoming Head of School Tom Ashburn
When Newark Academy began the nationwide search in 2024 for its next Head of School, the community set out to find a leader with vision, heart and a deep understanding of what makes NA special. They didn’t have to look far.
Tom Ashburn, a beloved figure at Newark Academy for more than two decades, officially stepped into the role on July 1, 2025, becoming the school’s 50th Head of School. With 17 years of experience as NA’s Middle School Principal and seven years experience as an English teacher in the Upper School, Tom is no stranger to the relationships and rhythms that define daily life at Newark Academy. But his impact runs much deeper than this.
During his time at NA, Tom has helped shape the Middle School’s culture into one of joy, mutual respect and shared growth. He has championed student-centered learning, spearheaded the development of Capstone Experiences and also played a key role in the design and launch of the Wilf Middle School building. Tom also helped grow Newark Academy’s Summer Program into a thriving and sustainable offering that draws more than 1,700 students each year, and he served on the Return-to-School Task Force during the pandemic, ensuring continuity of learning through uncertain times. Tom Ashburn was the right person to build on the incredible legacy of Former Head of School Donald M. Austin and carry Newark Academy into its next era.
A native of New Hampshire, Tom holds a B.A. in English from Marist College and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Saint Elizabeth, where he focused on servant leadership. He and his wife, Stacy, have three children: Matthew, Caitlin and Brady.
As I’ve stepped into this role, two themes have risen to the top for me: community and trust. Community has always been NA’s strength. It’s seen in how we celebrate each other’s victories, gather as a community and honor the traditions that make Newark Academy feel like home. Trust is what allows us to grow together, to make bold choices and to know that we have one another’s backs. When those two things come together, Newark Academy becomes more than just a place of learning — it becomes a place where each of us knows we matter."
Tom Ashburn, Head of School
Leading with Intention:
Five Priorities for the Road Ahead
Head of School Tom Ashburn outlined five key priorities that will guide his leadership and shape Newark Academy’s path forward. These priorities aren’t just personal convictions. They reflect the vision of Newark Academy’s 2023 – 2027 strategic plan, Putting People First, which was launched by the Board of Trustees on the eve of the school’s 250th anniversary. Tom’s five focus areas align with the plan’s goals: supporting faculty and staff, prioritizing an excellent student experience, fostering authentic community engagement, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Tom shares those priorities in his own words:
