J. Harrison Stuart
Head of School
Harrison is uniquely qualified to serve as Canterbury’s Head of School. A proven leader with experience ranging from the classroom to founding an Episcopal school, he is a visionary who challenges Canterbury to lean into our mission as an Episcopal school and our motto, “To Learn, To Love, To Serve: To Live.” His energetic and compassionate leadership style helps Canterbury provide the best possible education for all children and helps them succeed from their first day on campus.
A native of Lexington, Ky., Harrison is a graduate of Woodberry Forest School, Hampden-Sydney College, and Belmont University, where he earned his M.Ed. in nonprofit leadership. Following roles as 6th grade teacher and Director of Development at Episcopal School of Knoxville, as well as Director of Admissions and Enrollment at Woodberry Forest, he served as the founding Head of School at Episcopal School of Nashville for six years prior to joining Canterbury in 2021.
Harrison and his wife, Katherine, president of an independent school consulting firm, have four children: Teddy (’23), Jack (’25), Lillian (’28), and Kate (’28). They are an active family, enjoying outdoor sports such as hiking, camping, and mountain biking.
“I am delighted beyond measure to serve as Canterbury’s Head of School. Canterbury has cultivated a strong mission of service to develop the whole child within an inclusive and spirited school culture. As I engage with Canterbury’s happy students on a daily basis, I experience an authentic sense that the school is living this mission each and every day. ”
— J. Harrison Stuart
See the Canterbury way for yourself.
The best way to understand the Canterbury academic experience is to visit campus. Observe classrooms, meet teachers, and see firsthand how students are supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow each day.
