Legendary basketball coach John Wooden once said, “Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.” This sentiment is consistent with the philosophy we embrace at Fairmont and one which our administrators, faculty, and staff are so eager to impart to our students. Chief among these educators is Carolyn Lucia, Head of School at the Prep and Managing Director of Fairmont Campuses, who was recently named one of Orange County’s Top Five School Leaders by Parenting OC! 

Education is in Ms. Lucia’s DNA – her passion for preparing students for success in the 21st century is almost palpable!

Her resume reads like a “Who’s Who” in education. Over her 33-year career, she has served in many capacities, beginning as a middle school teacher, then working her way up the ranks to many high-level administrative positions including founding administrator of a middle school. A strong believer in multiple approaches to education, Carolyn founded a K-12 charter school and served as its Executive Director. She went on to work with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and was invited to Stanford University to help shape the Measures for Effective Teaching project.

To our great delight, Ms. Lucia made her way to Fairmont Schools in 2011. During her tenure here, she has held the positions of Dean of Advanced Studies, P-12 Director of Education, Assistant Head of School, and Head of School. In 2020, her role expanded to include Managing Director of all five of Fairmont’s campuses. 

Widely regarded as a “compass” for our organization, Ms. Lucia is responsible for directing all facets of educational programming. A quiet but strong leader, she is an outstanding listener who advocates for her faculty and staff. She has a gift for seeing possibilities within people and providing them with opportunities to grow into their highest potential.

Author Becky Brodin wrote, “Leadership is not wielding authority, it’s empowering people.” This sentiment beautifully captures the essence of who Carolyn Lucia is – a steadfast, humble leader who gives agency to students, faculty, and staff alike.