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Independent Thinking was founded in 2000 by independent school professionals. We partner with schools to find great leaders.

Meet The Team

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Jane Armstrong, Managing Partner

  • First independent school job: "triple threat" at the Peddie School, teaching English, coaching and dorm-parenting; later serving as Director of Publications

  • Other school work: Assistant Director of Alumni & Parent Programs at Amherst College (her alma mater), Dean of Students and Director of Residential Life at Garrison Forest School, Director of Development at Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall School

  • Probably relevant: parent of 5 independent school graduates, one of whom is an independent school teacher and coach.

Email Jane

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Samantha Sawin Brennan, Senior Consultant

  • First independent school job: Biology and Chemistry teacher at the Delbarton School (NJ).

  • Other school work: Served The Rivers School (MA) as Dean of the Upper School, Director of Wellness, and School Counselor. Most recently, held the role of Assistant Head of School & Dean of Faculty at St. Mark's School (MA).

  • Graduate: Georgetown University, (BA), Harvard Graduate School of Education (MA), Babson College (MBA)

  • Probably relevant: independent school graduate; parent of twins enrolled in independent school; married to a college basketball coach.

Email Samantha

The IT Commitment

We will...

  • Work hard and well for you

  • Value your school's resources

  • Listen well and respect your school's individuality

  • Connect you with great candidates

Bill Lyons, Managing Partner Emertius

  • First independent school job lasted 17 years and included just about everything at The Fessenden School: teaching English, coaching tennis, dorm parenting, serving as Assistant Head and Director of Development

  • Other school work: Dean of Students and Director of School Operations at Brewster Academy, and Assistant Head at Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall School

  • Graduate: St. Lawrence University and Boston University

Email Bill

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