Franklin Academy Announces Search for Chief Advancement Officer

Magister Placement will lead the search for an advancement leader to support Franklin’s continued growth and expand opportunities for neurodivergent students.

Franklin Academy has launched a search for its next Chief Advancement Officer, partnering with Magister Placement to identify a leader who will strengthen philanthropy, deepen community engagement, and help shape the school’s future.

The search comes at a significant moment for Franklin. With a record opening enrollment of 105 students, a campus master planning initiative underway, and its 25th academic year approaching, the school is building on its momentum while planning thoughtfully for the years ahead.

“Franklin’s growth reflects the importance of an education designed around how our students learn, connect, and thrive,” said Dr. Alexander Morris-Wood, Head of School. “Our next Chief Advancement Officer will help connect that work with people who believe in our students and want to invest in their futures. We are looking for someone who can build meaningful relationships and turn a shared sense of possibility into lasting support.”

Reporting directly to the Head of School and serving on the school’s Cabinet, the Chief Advancement Officer will lead Franklin’s advancement strategy. Priorities include growing the annual fund and major giving, expanding philanthropic support for financial aid, strengthening connections with alumni and families, and preparing for a future capital campaign informed by the campus master plan.

The role will also help engage the Franklin community around the school’s approaching 25th academic year, celebrating its history and student impact while building support for its next chapter.

“The Board is committed to stewarding Franklin’s future with both ambition and care,” said Michèle Petryk, Board of Trustees Development Committee Chair. “This search is an investment in the relationships and resources that will sustain our mission. We look forward to welcoming a leader who understands what makes Franklin distinctive and can bring our community together around the opportunities ahead.”

Franklin seeks an experienced advancement professional with a strong record in fundraising, major gifts, and campaign planning, along with a deep commitment to expanding opportunities for neurodivergent students. The successful candidate will combine strategic leadership with hands-on relationship building and work closely with school leadership, trustees, families, alumni, and friends.

Applications and Inquiries

Magister Placement is conducting the search on behalf of Franklin Academy. Interested candidates should submit a thoughtful cover letter, résumé, and list of professional references, combined in that order into a single PDF, to Mike Kowalchick at mi**@***************nt.com.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and all inquiries will be held in confidence.

For full details about the role, qualifications, and application process, please review the Chief Advancement Officer Opportunity Statement.

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