Bruce Dennis, Packer’s Ninth Head of School, passed away on Monday, Monday, August 15, 2022. He was 73 years old.  

Bruce was a teacher at heart: he loved his freshman grammar seminar and mentoring seniors on their college essays. Whether applauding at a student production, chatting and laughing with colleagues and parents, cheering on the basketball team, or challenging students to a midday ping pong game, Bruce loved Packer and celebrated it every day, and he always acted with purpose and heart. 

Upon the occasion of Bruce’s departure from Packer, former Board Chair Ronan Harty reflected: “Leadership embodies many things, but I think it’s the ability to connect with people, the ability to speak plainly and truthfully—and that people trust what you’re saying. Those are qualities that [Bruce] displayed from the first time that I saw him.”

Bruce was a legendary mentor, and a number of his colleagues have continued on to become heads of school themselves. His seasoned insight and level-headedness in times of crisis inspired those who worked alongside him. Former Assistant Head of School Noah Reinhardt remarked of Bruce’s leadership: “Even in the most strained times, when the path forward is least clear, Bruce does an extraordinary job of rallying people around a common vision and moving forward with clarity and purpose.” 

We mourn along with everyone in the Packer community who knew and cared for Bruce.