Maria Nunes joins Packer in July as the new Upper School Division Head, replacing José De Jesús, who was appointed in 2014. Most recently, she was an upper school dean and a mathematics and economics teacher at The Spence School.

“Maria impressed us with her array of leadership experience both in business and in education; her warm, engaging personal style; and her reputation for bringing intelligence, collaboration, and kindness to her work,” said Head of School Bruce L. Dennis about the hiring decision that he and incoming Head of School Dr. Jennifer Weyburn made together. “She seemed to have it all, and to be an excellent fit for Packer as it moves forward.” 

Maria comes to education after a highly successful business career in strategic planning, marketing, communications, operations, and financial management. She holds a BA from Yale University, an MBA from Harvard Graduate School, and an MS in education from Bank Street College, and is fluent in Portuguese, French, Spanish, and English — in part the result of her roots in the Cape Verde Islands. She was raised in Connecticut speaking both English and Portuguese and later worked in Brazil, France, and Spain.

“I’m excited to help Packer maintain a vibrant Upper School community where each of us looks forward to days filled with joy and school pride,” said Maria. She is energized by Packer’s mission, particularly Think deeply. Speak confidently. Act with purpose and heart. “I love the focus on both academic excellence and personal development since I fundamentally believe that the purpose of an education is to strengthen students’ integrity as well as nurture their minds.”