USM Welcomes Tom McManus, Incoming Head of School

Tom McManus was selected to serve as University School of Milwaukee’s 10th head of school, effective July 1, 2027. He brings a rare combination of authenticity, strategic thinking, and deep independent school experience. Tom is coming to USM from Montgomery School in Pennsylvania, where he has served as head of school since 2020. Prior to that, he served as CEO and head of mission at Revolution School in Philadelphia, which followed progressive leadership roles at Mid-Pacific Institute (Hawaii), St. Paul’s School (Md.), The Tatnall School (Del.), and The Groton School (Mass.). Tom also worked in college admissions leadership at the University of Pennsylvania, his alma mater. 

Originally from New England, Tom’s academic preparation reflects the same depth and breadth as his professional experience. He earned a B.A. in English from the University of Pennsylvania, and later received an M.A. in private school leadership from Teachers College at Columbia University, where his coursework focused on nonprofit finance, educational law, program development, marketing and communications, and independent school leadership. He also conducted original research on teacher collaboration in independent schools and completed a practicum in advancement and fundraising.

"Tom exudes passion and excitement for learning, engaging in all facets of the student experience." - Leslie Tector '87, president, USM Board of Trustees

In addition to his background as an English teacher and in school leadership, Tom offers a sophisticated understanding of all areas of school operations, as well as the increasingly competitive landscape of college admissions. He has tremendous experience conducting academic audits, examining curriculum and implementing change, executing strategies for faculty development and retention, and unifying multidivisional programming. Having navigated budget and enrollment challenges, launched strategic initiatives, and led significant campus and program expansion, Tom will arrive at USM well prepared to lead the school.

Tom is motivated not simply to preserve what already works, but to help USM grow into something even stronger, embracing the belief that—while it is acceptable to be good—schools can aspire to be exceptional, especially in their academic programs. His vision for USM reflects both ambition and optimism for the school’s future.

Outside of his career, Tom is deeply family-oriented. He is married to Micheline McManus, who currently serves as chair of the English department at Wilmington Friends School in Delaware, and together they have four children, ages 27, 24, 20, and 7. 

“Tom exudes passion and excitement for learning, engaging in all facets of the student experience, said Leslie Tector ’87, president, USM Board of Trustees. “The joy he radiates is contagious and inspiring.”