A Steady Legacy

Albert Throckmorton Announces Retirement, Search for Next Head Begins

This fall, St. Mary’s announced that Head of School Albert Throckmorton will retire at the conclusion of the 2026-2027 school year. The news marks the end of an era for a leader whose steady vision and boundless energy have shaped the school for two decades, including 13 years as Head of School.

“We are truly blessed to have had Albert at the helm of St. Mary’s,” Susan Whitten Graber ’86, Board Chair, shared. “In his time as Head of School, Albert has spearheaded major projects, increased our endowment, and been a tireless champion for our mission.”

Throckmorton’s announcement provides ample runway for a national search and reflects the same thoughtful planning and care that have characterized his tenure: an emphasis on continuity, community engagement, and preparing the school for a bold next chapter.

In his time as the Head of School at St. Mary’s, Albert led two major capital projects — the Athletic and Wellness Center and the renovation and expansion of Moss Hall — increased our endowment, directed our COVID response, guided our community through grief and celebration, and built an administrative team that has elevated the school to a new level of excellence.

Beyond buildings and budgets, Albert became the school’s most enthusiastic advocate for girls’ education.

“It has been an honor to work alongside the most devoted faculty and staff I have known in my 36-year career, and to share the leadership with a dedicated and supportive board and an amazingly talented team of administrators,” he reflected, noting the joy of watching alumnae and students flourish.

The Board of Trustees has launched a national search for his successor. Graber and fellow Trustee Jeffrey Block P’24’26 are co-chairs of the Search Committee. The Board engaged The Education Group (TEG), a nationally recognized search and consulting firm, to lead the process.

The Search Committee includes trustees, parents, and alumnae who know St. Mary’s well and bring a blend of experience and dedication to the work.

The Education Group is guiding the community-centered search that includes surveys, on-campus listening sessions, and multiple opportunities for stakeholder feedback. In late 2025, nearly 400 students, parents, faculty and staff, and alumnae provided feedback through a survey and listening sessions.

“The survey response and community visit were remarkable,” said Katherine Stuart, President of The Education Group. “St. Mary’s really knows St. Mary’s. When a school’s mission and vision are clear, and the community truly knows who they are, it makes the search work both easier and more meaningful — and it naturally attracts a strong candidate pool.”

Read more about the search for the next Head of School on our website.

Continue reading the magazine.