Thomas Cangiano's Biography

Thomas Cangiano is a veteran educational leader, with over 30 years of experience. A Head of School since 2007 in both US independent schools and at one of the oldest US educational institutions abroad, the American College of Sofia in Bulgaria, Tom offers the knowledge of an American approach to education as well as the administrative skill sets learned by a vast experience working in challenging situations.

Tom's background, experience, and personal qualities match what ACS needs in these extremely challenging times. His calm, rational, and communicative leadership style -- honed over years of management experience – have been pivotal in these times of high pressure and rapidly changing circumstances. Tom's approach to finding pragmatic solutions and empowering the school's leadership team enable him to be effective and impactful. Tom is no stranger to challenging environments. His experience in emerging markets -- including stints in Bulgaria and Hungary – have helped him understand and appreciate the Lebanese context of ACS. Tom brings with him an American approach to education and extensive experience in strategic planning, school accreditation, curriculum development, and fundraising.

Prior to coming to ACS, Tom was most recently Head of GEMS World Academy in Chicago. He has also been the president of Shady Side Academy in Pittsburgh and the American College of Sofia, in Bulgaria. In addition to holding these positions, Tom Cangiano has been in the classrooms of schools such as the Lawrenceville School in New Jersey (ranked in the top ten schools in the US), Trevor Day School in New York City, as well as the American International School, Budapest, Hungary.

Tom also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Near East South Asia Council of Overseas Schools [NESA] and with the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools [MSA] as a member of the Advisory Committee for International Schools.

Tom holds degrees from Middlebury College (B.A. Literature), Tufts University (M.A.T. in English), and Columbia University (M.A. and M.Phil. in History). On the administrative side, he has led several school restructuring efforts, oversaw the development of new facilities across science, innovation, and sports, and has raised $40 million for educational institutions he was leading.

Tom Cangiano and his wife Linda have three grown children, George (25), Grace (23), and Celia (20), a sophomore at Boston University.