(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Bethesda Academy, founded in 1740 as a child-care institution and now an independent day school for boys in grades six through twelve, announces the appointment of Dr. Christian Proctor as interim President for a two-year term beginning Monday, July 1.

Dr. Proctor brings with him 25 years of experience as a headmaster, with a robust history of leadership in independent schools across the Southeast. Recently, he concluded a tenure as Head of School at Chatham Hall, a 125-student leadership academy in Virginia, where he oversaw the construction of an athletic and wellness center and launched a partnership with a local college to develop a leadership program. Prior to that, Dr. Proctor headed North Cross School in Roanoke, VA, for 11 years. His leadership experience extends to schools in South Carolina and Louisiana.

With a commitment to George Whitefield’s vision of imparting “A Love of God, Love of Learning, and a Strong Work Ethic,” Dr. Proctor emphasizes the importance of providing a rigorous academic program that challenges students and prepares them for college and beyond. “When I first learned about the opportunity at Bethesda Academy, I felt an immediate connection to its mission and values,” said Dr. Proctor. “I am eager to lead the next chapter of this esteemed institution and work with our community to achieve excellence.”

During his tenure at North Cross School, Dr. Proctor managed a student population of 580 from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and established North Cross-Shanghai, a satellite campus in China for high school students. His previous roles include Head of Porter-Gaud School in South Carolina and Head of St. Martin’s Episcopal School and Grace Episcopal School in Louisiana.

Dr. Proctor has also significantly contributed to the educational community. At Chatham Hall, he led the accreditation committee and served on the Board of the Virginia Association of Independent Schools. He holds an undergraduate degree from Colgate University, a master’s degree from Duke University, and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

“My past school experience has taught me the importance of regular, transparent communication with all constituencies,” Proctor added. “From parents and students to the board and our fundraising partners, trust is built and sustained through openness and sincere efforts to make Bethesda Academy the best it can be. I believe it’s crucial for all stakeholders to have a thorough understanding of, and support for, the decisions being made.”

Paul Pressly, Board Chair, commented, “Dr. Proctor will help guide the Board of Governors as we develop a comprehensive and forward-thinking strategic plan. He has an unparalleled reputation as a dynamic leader—a ‘doer’ in the truest sense—known for his ability to transform vision into reality and achieve tangible results.”

Dr. Proctor succeeds Dr. H. Michael Hughes, who served as President of Bethesda Academy from 2016 until 2024. Under Dr. Hughes’ leadership, the academy completed the “Lead-the-Way” strategic plan, which included constructing the first football field on campus and installing a campus-wide technological infrastructure. Bethesda’s football team also won the state championship in the South Carolina Independent School League in 2023.

ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY
Bethesda Academy is a private day school for young men in grades six through twelve, located in Savannah, Ga. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Bethesda Academy emphasizes small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and a student success leadership program. Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is one of the oldest child-care institutions in the United States. The 650-acre campus allows Bethesda Academy to offer a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and outdoor learning experience with a college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912-438-6600.

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