Eric Niles Ends Fifteen-Year Run as Head of School

On April 8, the Athenian community received unexpected news: Eric Niles, the longtime head of school, will be departing at the end of this academic year. Expectedly, the decision has stirred curiosity about his future endeavors and speculation about Athenian’s next head. 

Eric is moving to Japan for a new position as Head of School at the American School in Japan in Tokyo.  It is quite large, including grades from preschool to twelfth grade. The instruction is in English, following an American curriculum. 

Eric will step into the role of Head there in 2025, and at first, the plan was for him to remain at Athenian while the search for a new Head took place.

“I envision, once the board makes a decision, we will obviously form a search committee and engage as many members of our community as we can to get valuable feedback. That will include employees, parents, alumni, and in the process, it will include students as well,” said Jon Nickens, the Chair of Athenian’s Board of Trustees, when asked about the process of the search for a new head. But because Eric is leaving a year earlier, the process will be different. Next year, Quincy McLaughlin will return to Athenian as the Interim Head of School. Quincy previously filled this role in the fall of 2021, while Eric was on leave.

In the most recent leadership update, Quincy said, “I feel incredibly fortunate to have this chance to spend more time with the thriving and dynamic Athenian community. Athenian has remained steadfast in its values and offers such a distinctive program and special culture, to play any part in its successful future is a tremendous opportunity. I can’t wait to rejoin this exceptional community of educators and young people, as we partner with families and celebrate and build on the school’s unique history and strengths while continuing to provide transformational experiences for all students.” 

Eric said that his decision to leave Athenian is deeply rooted in his belief in personal and professional growth. After fifteen years of dedicated service to this school, he felt compelled to seek new challenges, broaden his horizons, and gain international experience. 

Reflecting on his choice, Eric said, “In some ways, because of the DNA of Athenian and the international pillar, I’ve always been interested in international schools. So I’ve had my eyes, for the last couple of years, on one that might be interesting.”

When asked if the news of Eric’s departure was surprising, Monica Streifer, the Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, answered: “I think I was somewhat surprised, but not totally. He’s been here for fifteen years, and he’s a really interesting person who cares a lot about education, and is driven. It didn’t surprise me that he was looking for his next challenge, even while he deeply cares about Athenian.” 

Eric spoke about what he wished to gain in a new place. “Oh, all of the things I want you guys to gain when you go on exchanges—stuff like trying to learn another language. International schools are different than Athenian, so I hope to learn that the ways of international schools, and of course Japanese culture. All the things you would expect,” he said. 

When Eric first came to Athenian, the school was going about its mission as envisioned by Dyke Brown. Eric said that one of his goals was to redefine this purpose in a way that fit the constantly evolving nature of the 21st century. Guiding the school through COVID-19 and creating March Term are a few major milestones of his time here. As the school moves towards the selection process for the next head of school, it is Eric’s hope that students and faculty alike will carry on the vision of Athenian. This process will require growth, student voice, and adaptation. 

“I think someone who really honors our mission and the commitments we’ve made as an institution. So a commitment to DEIS, and a commitment to Round Square, and a commitment to learning by doing,” Eric said, when asked what he expected in the future head of school.

Saying goodbye to someone who has been an intrinsic part of the foundation of Athenian will be difficult, especially for those who maintain a clear recollection of Eric’s tenure. 

Amy Rasner, the Director of People and Culture, said “Anytime you’re dealing with complex issues in a school setting, a feeling of urgency can be easily escalated. I think one of Eric’s big strengths is that he is able to draw upon experiences from throughout his service in a myriad of roles in and beyond schools. His experience as an attorney, as a classroom teacher and in various administrative roles help him to slow a process to look at things from multiple angles.”

“I know he’s a very humble man, so he doesn’t want to draw a lot of attention to himself. But, it would be my wish that the community wishes him well, and that he leaves a smile on your face when it’s time for him to go,” said Debbie Derana, the assistant to the Head of School.