Ryan Liese joined Morristown Beard School as Head of Upper School in 2020. He came to MBS from Randolph School in Huntsville, Alabama, where he also served as Head of Upper School.

Having joined the Randolph faculty as an Upper School History teacher and coach in 2008, Ryan quickly earned the respect of his colleagues for his student-centered approach, relational strengths, strong organizational skills, and great integrity. His trajectory within Randolph was rapid. He was appointed as a senior faculty advisor to the Honor Council only a year after arriving at Randolph, working with students and faculty to deepen the community of trust within the school. In 2012, Ryan was appointed Dean of 9th and 10th Grades, serving as an advocate for students as they began their Upper School experience. Two years later, he was named Head of Upper School following a rigorous and competitive search.

Ryan completed his Master of Education in Independent School Leadership from Vanderbilt University in 2017 and has shared his learning and innovative leadership with his Randolph colleagues at every turn. Ryan’s leadership in the development of signature programming, both curricular and co-curricular, has been strategic and focused on improving the student experience and fostering relationships within the School community. 

Ryan lives with his wife, Nichole, and their daughter, Hannah.