In the wake of former Head of School Zach Lehman’s sudden departure, the quick adaptation made by Sylvia Rodriguez-Vargas is often overlooked by the community. In just the span of a few months, Rodriguez-Vargas transitioned to being the new interim Head of School, while also continuing to fulfill her responsibilities as the Associate Head of School.

A prominent position such as the Head of School comes with more than a few responsibilities. On such a short-term transition, Rodriguez-Vargas had to be resilient, while keeping in mind the interests of the larger community. 

In an email, Rodriguez-Vargas shared her experiences with her acclimation.

“Any transition requires thoughtful and careful attention to the needs and experiences of the community,” Rodriguez-Vargas stated. “I am fortunate to have already had good relationships and meaningful partnerships with many faculty and administrators on campus. So, rather than obstacles, I have been met with a level of trust that has allowed me to step into the work with tremendous support.” 

Although Rodriguez-Vargas held her position for just a few months rather than years, she informs that she still plans to make a strong impact on the Hill community. With Kathleen Devaney imminently becoming Head of School, Rodriguez-Vargas’ ability to achieve long-term goals has been limited; however, she outlined a clear agenda for the rest of her time as Head of School. 

“The primary goals currently are to be attentive to the current needs of the school for the remainder of the year, to support the upcoming leadership transition this summer, and to further strengthen and develop the wonderful programs and opportunities available to our students and community,” Rodriguez-Vargas stated in an email.

Before becoming The Hill School’s interim Head of School, she held the role of Associate Head of School. Her experience in that position since the start of the 2020 school year, and her earlier role as Head of School at the Brownell Talbot College Preparatory School in Omaha, Nebraska, made her well-equipped for this new experience. 

“I am doing two jobs simultaneously, with the support of the senior leadership team. I continue to oversee and collaborate with all the deans and directors of programs across campus in my work as Associate Head. I am also concurrently working closely with all operation team leaders on the business side of running a school,” Rodriguez-Vargas explained in an email. 

Though the Head of School is a crucial position, most students are unaware of the obligations of the Head of School. Rodriguez-Vargas’ duties hold a considerable amount of responsibility and are essential in determining the community’s direction.

“The Head of School is in effect the CEO of the organization and is responsible for the overall health and wellness of the school in all regards,” Rodriguez-Vargas explained. “Knowledge of all aspects of school life coupled with the business acumen to lead responsibly and effectively are key to the job.” Though there may not have been many noticeable changes so far this school year, she continuously sought out new ways to better the Hill School.

“The Head of School is traditionally charged with setting and leading a long-term vision that enhances and shapes meaningful experiences in the life of students, faculty, and various constituents, along with the responsibility of advancing the mission, culture, and overall sustainability for the future of the school.”

An unexpected turn has become beneficial for the Hill School community. Rodriguez-Vargas started to direct the school in her own professional style. The many tasks of a Head of School can be overwhelming; controlling two highly regarded positions at once is extremely demanding. However, Rodrigez-Vargas beamed confidently that she will continue to meet the community’s demands, while upholding the school’s traditional values.

“My background in and experiences in finance, fundraising, admission, communication and marketing, working with the Board, and my previous experience as a Head of School were a strong match to serve Hill as The Head of School,” she said.