FACULTY ACADEMICS
From All Sides: Dedicated Educator Sees Ensworth from Many Perspectives A RETIREMENT TRIBUTE TO:
Sarah Buchanan BY A NNE STR INGH A M
Remember the ancient tale about the blind men who are asked to describe an elephant? Each one examined a different part of the elephant—trunk, legs, tail – by touch and described the animal as long and snake-like, thick and tree-like, skinny and rope-like. Well, one long-time educator has an in-depth knowledge of Ensworth like few others could attain—from a broad range of perspectives gained over the past 32 years. You could say that Dr. Sarah Buchanan knows the reality of the animal – the Ensworth Tiger of course, not an elephant! – from its head to its tail.
School that has provided summer service learning trips around the world for Ensworth’s middle and high school students since 2005. Recognizing faculty continuing education as essential to providing an excellent student experience, she has continued her own academic journey, following up her B.A. in Mathematics from Vanderbilt University with a Master’s in Mathematics and, ultimately, a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instructional Leadership from Vanderbilt. She taught as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt from 2006 to 2011.
As Dr. Buchanan concludes her time at Ensworth, it is astounding to consider the many roles she has played, the numerous hats she has worn, and the myriad ways in which she has helped to make Ensworth the teaching and learning environment it is today. Dr. B began her career at Ensworth in September 1989 in the Pre-First Grade (now Kindergarten) classroom, helping the youngest Tigers get off to a great start. She later became Lower School Division Head with responsibilities for faculty and students in Grades Pre-First through Fourth. Her perspectives on the programs and people of the school community were deepened by the enrollment of the three sons she shares with husband Bob Buchanan, giving her the parent-of-Tigers experience. The Buchanan alumni include Buck ’91, John ’92, and Edward ’97.
From teaching to recruiting faculty to helping guide faculty and curriculum development to overseeing the admissions program for Ensworth’s thirteen grades, with healthy doses of scheduling, service learning, and parent communications, right down to crosswalk greeting in the mornings, Sarah Buchanan’s involvement across Ensworth’s many aspects is incredible. But beyond the titles and responsibilities, it is Sarah’s dedication and sincere care and concern for the people of Ensworth—students, teachers, staff, alumni, and families—that have distinguished her career.
As the school continued to grow and serve more students and their families, Dr. Buchanan’s roles likewise expanded. Her most recent service has been as Associate Head of School and Director of Enrollment Management, overseeing K-12 Admissions and Financial Aid. Along the way, she has served as a team member or co-chair of numerous school accreditation teams for the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and has delivered many presentations at SAIS conferences. She has provided leadership and coordination for Ensworth’s own self-studies and accreditation events, as well. Dr. Buchanan led a faculty development program in Beijing, China in 2008 as the school began the addition of Mandarin into the World Languages curriculum and developed a partnership between Ensworth and the World Leadership
Former Head of School Will Moseley: “Sarah is a true professional in every sense of the word. She is one of the most talented, dedicated, and inspirational educators I have ever known, and I am grateful to have had the privilege of working with her. Her contributions begin with her unconditional love for Ensworth, enhanced by her can-do attitude and willingness to take on all challenges and opportunities, and capped by her unwavering commitment to the kids. Ensworth is truly a better place as a result of her many years of service.” Former Headmaster Kirk Walker: “The first time that I met Sarah, I could tell that she was smart and insightful. I soon learned that she also had an intuitive sense of people (both children and adults) as well as a generous heart. Whatever tasks she was asked to do, her gifts always shone through. Her spirit and her efforts always made Ensworth better.” Rebekah Capps, Director of Admissions K-8: “Sarah’s loyalty and deep love of Ensworth motivated her to care for
44 | ENSWORTH ENSIGHTS
Ensights_Repaired.indd 44
7/28/21 10:16 AM
