Upper School Principal
Hangzhou International School (China)

HANGZHOU INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL - UPPER SCHOOL PRINCIPAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Dear Search Associates Colleagues,

On behalf of the Hangzhou International School’s community, we are pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Cynthia Wissman as the new Upper School Principal beginning in July 2024. This significant appointment was the result of an extensive global search led by Search Associates.

Ms. Wissman has had an impressive career as an educator and school leader, spanning more than 25 years, both in the United States and internationally. She currently serves as Head of Secondary at the International School of Ulaanbaatar, in Mongolia. Ms. Wissman's professional journey has involved a range of teaching, counseling, and leadership roles, providing her with a wealth of experience that she brings to her new position. Notably, she has extensive experience with the International Baccalaureate program and a track record of developing programs that support students in achieving both personal and academic success.

Ms. Wissman graduated from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania in the US with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She furthered her education by obtaining a Specialist Degree in Education in School Psychology and a Master of Arts Degree in School Counseling, both from Seattle University in Washington. Additionally, she earned a Master of Arts in Organization and Leadership from the University of San Francisco. More recently, in 2021, Ms. Wissman completed the Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness Graduate Certificate Program at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, US.

Ms. Wissman will be accompanied to Hangzhou by her husband, Josh Davis. Mr. Davis is himself an accomplished educator and he will join the school as a Visual Arts and Design Teacher.

In his communication to the community, the Superintendent, Mr. Jeffry Stubbs remarked: “We are thrilled that the concerted search process has resulted in the successful appointment of Cynthia Wissman. I particularly want to thank all our students, parents, faculty, national staff, and leadership that participated in the panel meetings with our Search Associates consultants and candidates.  As HIS continues to grow and face different opportunities and challenges, we felt we needed to give this process our utmost commitment with maximum input and feedback.  Both Dr. Ayers and I feel this process was particularly successful in galvanizing support for our school to move forward with specific targets and next steps for our school.”

In accepting the position, Ms. Wissman stated, “Josh and I are fortunate to be joining a strong caring community.  Hangzhou International School is an impressive, inclusive school meeting the academic and personal needs of all learners.  It is evident that HIS is committed to all learners, with much happening for students, parents, and faculty. I look forward to carrying on the traditions and new beginnings of such a vibrant school. Josh and I couldn't be more thrilled to be a HIS Dragon!"

Hangzhou International School and Search Associates wish to thank each of the candidates who expressed interest in this important position, and everyone who contributed to the success of our extensive search process.

Sincerely,

Dr. Eric Sands, Senior Consultant

Dr. Diana Martelly, Senior Consultant

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