Congratulations go out today from King’s Academy to Deputy Headmaster and Dean of Students Julianne Puente, who has been named the next Head of Albuquerque Academy, in New Mexico, effective July 1, 2020.

Puente has spent more than a decade at King’s Academy essentially building the school from the ground up. From writing handbooks and developing curriculum to establishing a shared culture among students from dramatically different backgrounds, Puente has been key in creating the ethos of King’s Academy. She has found time to continue to teach and coach and to serve as a resident advisor while developing all the other aspects of the school. The challenges have been many, but Puente has remained resolute in creating a school culture characterized by excellence, inclusivity, kindness and engagement. She has developed an environment where students and faculty feel safe to express themselves and present their ideas.

“Julianne’s contributions to King’s Academy are beyond measure,” Head of School Peter Nilsson said. “She is deeply committed to learning, to character development and to holistic education, and she will be missed by members from across the full range of the King’s community. Albuquerque Academy is gaining a real champion for learning in heart, head and hand.”

Her former boss, Headmaster John Austin, who worked with Puente for nine years at King’s, described her as “full of energy, initiative and creativity.” And, he added, “her dedication, loyalty and commitment to kids is the thing that distinguishes her.”

Puente grew up in Yonkers, just outside New York City. She is the granddaughter of the great musician Tito Puente, with whom she shares a love of music, playing both the drums and guitar. She holds a Bachelor's degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University and a Master's degree in American studies from Columbia University. Having attended the Hackley School in Tarrytown, New York for her secondary school education, Puente returned to her alma mater to work as a teacher, administrator and coach for 14 years prior to joining King's in 2009.