Background: A native of Central Virginia, Joe Coleman is a product of independent schools having graduated from Woodberry Forest School before attending Princeton University where he graduated with a joint degree in Political Science and Economics. He later received a Certificate in Leadership Essentials from Cornell University.

With over 35 years in education, including 27 years in independent schools, Joe is a seasoned education professional with extensive experience in admissions, school administration, and recruitment.

While Director of Admissions at Woodberry Forest School, Joe directed the implementation of an electronic inquiry, application, and enrollment system; further developed an active parent and alumni program to assist in admissions; and helped geographically, racially, and socio-economically diversify the student body. As Assistant Head of School, he turned his attention to matters of student life and worked to build a more inclusive student community by working with faculty and student organization leaders and developing a peer mentoring program. Joe has spent the past four years working with schools on faculty recruitment and leading administrator searches, including Directors of Enrollment Management and Admissions.

Joe currently serves on the Board of Trustees at Woodberry Forest School, and has served on the boards of the Association of Boarding Schools and Abundant Life Ministries, a non-profit offering services to the Prospect neighborhood in Charlottesville, Virginia. He currently volunteers with Rise Richmond in their afterschool program.

Joe is the proud parent of six daughters and one son and has 10 grandchildren. When he’s not in his office, Joe enjoys canoeing local rivers and lakes.

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