Head of School John Palfrey announced his appointment of Jennifer Elliott ’94, current Dean of Abbot Cluster and Instructor in History, as the new Dean of Students on Friday afternoon, in an email sent to the Andover community.
In his email, Palfrey wrote that Elliott’s new position will be effective starting next July when Paul Murphy, current Dean of Students, finishes his seven-year term.
Elliott was one of three candidates who ran for the position.
In a Q&A with The Phillipian last week, Elliott described herself as energetic, collaborative, and committed.
“As we work to implement the goals of our strategic plan in the next few years, I think this is an exciting and prime opportunity to help shape and improve our school community,” she said in the interview.
“I am eager to continue working to make Phillips Academy a safer, more inclusive, more communicative, and more supportive learning environment for all of our students,” wrote Elliott in her position justification.
Elliott returned to Andover as a faculty member in Fall 2010. Since arriving on campus, she has served as an Instructor in History and Social Science, a House Counselor in Stowe House and Nathan Hale, Varsity Girls Squash Coach and Faculty Advisor to the Girls’ Leadership Project, among other roles. She is also currently Dean of Abbot Cluster.
“My favorite part of my work as [Dean of Abbot Cluster] is getting to know, working with, supporting and celebrating my Abbot students. I care deeply about their progress, health, and well-being. I see the role of the Dean of Students as a way to do similar work with the entire Andover student body,” said Elliott in the Q&A.
According to Palfrey, Elliott will work with Murphy in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition to the position, while continuing her work as a cluster dean.
