Julie Rodowsky Named Lower School Director

“First and foremost, Julie’s commitment to and experience in fostering a sense of purpose and joy among children, teachers, and families is in clear alignment with our strategic plan, Bryn Mawr, Beyond, which prioritizes the balance between academic excellence and well-being,” said Sue Sadler, Head of School. “We are also particularly excited by her forward-thinking approach to curricular innovation, especially in math and reading; her emphasis on supporting faculty through professional development and research on best practices; and her enthusiasm for returning to an all-girls educational environment.”

A graduate of the all-girls Seton High School here in Baltimore, Julie holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of Maryland, College Park, and an M.A. in elementary education from Wilmington University.  

Julie Rodowsky currently serves as the Head of Lower School at Wilmington Friends School in Wilmington, Delaware, a position she has held since July 2017. After joining Wilmington Friends in 2002, she taught kindergarten, first and second grade, and served as Assistant Head of Lower School. Throughout her career, Julie has focused her energy on prioritizing professional development to assure that the academic program’s scope and sequence are developmentally appropriate and aligned with the goals of her institution. She has served on several steering committees at Wilmington Friends, including marketing and strategic initiatives, hiring, and curriculum. Additionally, Julie has participated in the SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) program, which prepares leaders to facilitate conversations that drive social change.  

“There was a singular theme I heard throughout the interview process from teachers, school leaders and parents: the commitment to assuring that students at Bryn Mawr are engaged in meaningful experiences, not just for their own benefit, but for the good of the communities, large and small, that they will find themselves leading one day,” said Rodowsky. “I felt a palpable energy and passion around doing right by and for young girls, and I can't wait to be a part of the action!”

Bryn Mawr’s Lower School Director Search Committee made up of parents, faculty, alumnae, and trustees worked with the firm Carney Sandoe & Associates on the search, which attracted a talented pool of international candidates.