Dr. Michael A. Marinelli, Ed.D. ’76 Announces His Retirement

Dear Members of the Archmere Community,

I am writing to share that, after much thoughtful consideration, I have decided to retire from my position as Head of School at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. This decision was not made lightly, as my time at Archmere as a student, teacher, administrator, and head of school, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Just a few weeks after I began working at Archmere Academy on September 1, 1984, I recall writing about the feeling of having my own key to Saint Norbert Hall and my office door, as the Director of Development and Public Relations. It was an overwhelming sense of pride, responsibility, and excitement, having graduated from Archmere only eight years earlier.

When I returned to Archmere in 2010 as headmaster, I was handed the keys to all of the campus buildings. The same feelings I had experienced before I felt again even more strongly. Adding to that serendipitous moment was my decision to move the headmaster’s office to the Patio - the office occupied by the first headmaster of Archmere in 1932, and three other headmasters, and the former office of John J. Raskob. I made that decision with the vision of restoring the Patio for the national historic landmark that it is, and for the building to be incorporated into the daily life of the school.

I am so grateful for the many people who have supported me and the work that I was charged to accomplish over the years. In a community like Archmere, collaboration is essential to arrive at the best ideas generated from a tremendous pool of talented people in our community who are passionate about the success of our students. I continue to be grateful for and amazed at the accomplishments of the students and the level of support and kindness of families and friends, administrators, faculty and staff, alumni and alumnae, and loyal benefactors who sustain the mission and advance the vision of Archmere. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and built a nurturing environment that fosters academic, personal, and spiritual growth.

Being handed the keys to Archmere was a serious moment for me. When I was in elementary school, my parents said to me, “You are only going to go through school once, so always do your best.” That statement has stayed with me no matter what I have tried to do. In life, every day is an opportunity to be the best we can be. Admittedly, there were times when I knew that I was not at my best, and I have learned to acknowledge and learn from them. Additionally, in my position, making decisions brought satisfaction and dissatisfaction, depending on individuals’ perspectives and full knowledge of the issues. I have always tried to make difficult decisions based on what I discerned to be best for all the students at the time and consistent with the school’s mission.

In the coming months, I will work closely with the Board of Trustees to ensure a smooth transition. Board and Search Committee members are committed to finding a new Head of School who shares our mission, values, and vision. I look forward to working with all of you for the remainder of this school year and the next. Thank you for your ongoing support, trust, and collaboration. Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or simply wish to share your thoughts.

With sincere gratitude,

Michael A. Marinelli, Ed.D. ’76
Head of School

Click here to read the announcement and succession plan from Board Chair Dave Hogan '87