Fuqua School is excited to announce the hiring of Jennings Custis as Upper School Head for the 2019-2020 school year.

Custis, a native of the Eastern Shore of Virginia, joined the Fuqua Family in 1999 after completing his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Classics at Hampden-Sydney College and earning a Teaching Certification through Longwood University.

During his 20-year career at Fuqua School, Custis taught both middle and upper school, coached, and most recently served as the College and Career Counselor and Interim Upper School Head.

Throughout his time at Fuqua School, Custis has earned a reputation as a skilled and engaging teacher who uses the power of “story” to capture the hearts and minds of his students.

A self-proclaimed eternal optimist, Custis’ positive energy is contagious and buoys all of those he encounters. His extensive knowledge of the Fuqua School Community and his ability to maintain close relationships with scores of graduates are testaments to his enduring commitment to the black and red.

During the last three months in his role as Interim Upper School Head, Custis has demonstrated superb organizational and communication skills, a strong aptitude for bringing problems to creative and student-centered conclusions, and a willingness to learn and grow as a leader. The upper school faculty and students have responded positively to his optimistic and engaged “lead by example” style of rallying those around him. Being an excellent listener who is fair and consistent, building bridges, being highly visible, and having a clear vision for the future are all qualities that he has identified as key to his style of leading. About his new responsibilities, Custis states, “I have been a member of the Fuqua Family for the past 19 years and I am eager and looking forward to this new opportunity. I hope to make a positive contribution to the school community and faculty.”

In his new role as Upper School Head, Custis will continue to teach senior government and serve as the College and Career Counselor.