Peddie School is proud to welcome Karyn Bysshe Vella as the new assistant head of school for development.
Previously, Vella was the assistant head for external affairs at Allendale Columbia School in Rochester, N.Y. She brings more than 20 years’ experience in private school advancement to Peddie.
“Karyn is a brilliant school leader adept at both strategic thinking and alumni relations,” said Headmaster Peter Quinn. “She will lead Peddie’s fundraising and alumni development efforts at this pivotal time in the school’s history.” Peddie’s Board of Trustees recently approved a Strategic Plan that aims to significantly grow the school’s endowment and aggressively increase giving to the annual fund.
Vella said the opportunity to join the Peddie community is a privilege. “During my visits to campus and in conversations with Peddie leaders, students, parents and alums, the curiosity, excitement and humility was palpable and that was very appealing to me,” she said. “The strategic priorities of excellence, access and fiscal sustainability are well-chosen and perfectly aligned with my values. I have always admired the Peddie community, so it will be a real honor to be contributing to this chapter of Peddie's story.”
An adept manager and fundraiser, Vella led development, admissions, communications and strategic planning at Allendale Columbia School starting in 2012. During her tenure, the school saw a 30% increase in enrollment, 69% increase in net tuition revenue and 300% increase in annual fund income.
Vella previously worked in admissions and development at Winchester Thurston School, Shady Side Academy, Brophy College Preparatory, Bryn Mawr School and Oldfields School.
Vella is president of the Dartmouth Club of Rochester, having graduated from Dartmouth College with a degree in English. She is also an active alumna of Phillips Exeter Academy.