About Head of School Dr. Lisa Kaenzig

Dr. Lisa Kaenzig became Head of Foxcroft School on July 1, 2025.

A graduate of William & Mary with a Ph.D. in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership, Dr. Kaenzig comes to Middleburg from Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS), where she served most recently as the Dean of Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation & Director of the Centennial Center. Her 22-year career at HWS included 14 years as the dean of first-year women and seven years as the Dean of William Smith College. Dr. Kaenzig has also served as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN), a national organization in Washington, DC, dedicated to encouraging young women to engage in the public policy process.

In addition to her doctorate, Dr. Kaenzig holds a master’s degree in Human Resource Development from The George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Rutgers University.

Throughout her career, Dr. Kaenzig has actively promoted women’s participation in politics and civic engagement. A noted scholar, Dr. Kaenzig has dedicated her research to understanding the needs of K–12 gifted students, particularly girls, and advancing women in STEM fields. Her work has consistently aligned with this mission and underscores her dedication to providing an inclusive and empowering environment for young women.

In her roles at HWS and PLEN, Dr. Kaenzig’s work has been honored with special recognition. In June of 2025, she was honored with a Citation recognizing her “exemplary commitment and service to Hobart and William Smith” from the Alumni and Alumnae Associations there. In 2022, she was presented with PLEN’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2010, the members of the William Smith graduating class elected her as an honorary member of the Class of 2010. Dr. Kaenzig’s passion for all-girls education, empowerment, and advocacy will serve Foxcroft well as it continues to “give the world great women,” as founder Miss Charlotte once said.

Dr. Kaenzig is married to Dr. Christine de Denus, Associate Professor of Chemistry at Hobart & William Smith Colleges. Together, they have raised two adult daughters, Morgan and Madison.