The Summit Country Day School is pleased to announce that after a comprehensive national search, Ryan Martin has been appointed Upper School Director, effective July 1, 2026.
Martin brings more than two decades of transformative leadership in independent and multi-division schools, with experience spanning faculty, division leadership, and coaching. He has driven innovation in both boarding and day school environments, shaping vibrant student life and academic excellence. As Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School at St. Andrew’s School in Savannah, Georgia, and in senior roles at Park Tudor School in Indianapolis, Indiana, Martin championed academic rigor, student-centered learning, and built high-performing, mission-driven faculty teams.
“Ryan’s proven leadership and commitment to excellence and student formation make him an outstanding choice to guide our Upper School into its next chapter,” said Head of School Kelley Schiess. “His leadership style emphasizes strategic vision, relational trust, and measurable outcomes which directly align with the future focus we have for The Summit. His proven ability to build enduring partnerships across community, corporate, and university sectors aligns with our strategic vision to expand authentic, high-impact student experiences through our signature programs and Centers of Distinction,” added Schiess.
“The Summit’s mission, Hallmarks of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and Five Pillar approach to education resonate deeply,” said Martin. “I believe that schools are called to develop leaders of character spiritually, academically, physically socially and artistically. I am honored to partner with the faculty, students and families to shape the next chapter of the Upper School.”
A current faculty member in English, Martin holds a Master’s degree in English Literature from Middlebury College and a Bachelor’s degree from Wabash College. He has led flagship programs in civic leadership, experiential learning, and diversity initiatives, and secured major grants to support faculty growth and succession planning.