Following a rigorous national search, Donnie Smith has been named the director of enrollment management at George School. His tenure will begin July 1, 2026. Donnie’s selection followed a rigorous national search process and included input from board members, faculty, staff and students whose feedback provided critical guidance to the search committee. 

Donnie brings a wealth of experience to the role. A graduate of Earlham College, he earned his master’s degree in independent school leadership from Columbia University. Most recently, Donnie served as the director of admission and financial aid at the Putney School, a boarding and day school in Putney, VT, where he worked to establish a clear enrollment plan and vision to support his team in fulfilling the school’s strategic admission goals. Prior to Putney, Donnie spent five years as admission director at Redwood Day School in Oakland, CA. Donnie is returning to the George School community, having served as an admission associate earlier in his career.

As a graduate of Northfield Mount Herman School, a boarding and day school in Northfield, MA, Donnie has a deep appreciation for the power of a residential learning environment. He serves as a faculty member with the Admission Training Institute of E3n, one of the foremost professional organizations for independent schools, which allows him to mentor, advise and educate new enrollment professionals in the industry. He is excited to return to George School, where he sees the potential to strengthen the school’s position among its peers and attract best-match families to its unique community.

“George School is a special place because the mission is so lived,” said Donnie. “I am grateful to work with Justin and lead this admission team in innovative and creative enrollment work to make sure that George School remains relevant and visible today and for generations to come.”

Head of School Justin Brandon reflected on the strength of the search process. 

“I deeply appreciate the great work of the search committee and all of our community members who played an active part in this process,” he said. “Donnie’s enthusiasm for George School and the position was infectious, and his commitment to our mission, grounded in Quaker principles, make him the perfect choice to lead our admission team in this new chapter.”