Our Wildwood, Volume 54

A quality I love about Landis is that while he takes the work very seriously, he doesn’t take himself too seriously. He has a terrific sense of humor that brings a spirit of fun and congeniality to any room, and he always laughs the loudest at himself. It’s a lovely way to be, and it’s a very effective way to lead.”

Landis has such a wonderful folksy style that he makes his work look easy. But having worked closely with him I know that underneath that folksy style is a razor-focused passion steering the school towards the forefront of educational practices.”

VALERIE FARIS (P. ‘11, ‘14, ‘14) BOARD OF TRUSTEES (2005-2014)

ASHLEY KRAMER (P. ‘19, ‘22) BOARD OF TRUSTEES (2014-2023)

When we think of Landis’s leadership, we also think of the many times he had to carry the community through tragedy, the kinds that touch the community on a personal level like an unexpected death or the kinds that impact us all on a national scale. We have always appreciated the ways Landis supported families, staff, and the students. He has the ability to demonstrate equanimity and show empathy and tenderness at the same time.” MELINDA TSAPATSARIS (P. ‘28, ‘31, ‘33) FACULTY AND ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL (2001-2017) AND RASHEDA CARROLL (P. ’31, ‘38) DIRECTOR OF EQUITY AND INCLUSION (2001-2019)

“Landis’ time at Wildwood has been marked by his quiet power—a steady, principled presence that brings clarity during uncertain moments and calm amid change. Instead of leading with volume or velocity, he leads through constancy: a disciplined commitment to the school’s mission, a deep respect for the people who bring it to life, and a belief that progress comes from thoughtful, sustained effort to do right by students. Over the years, this constancy became a source of collective confidence. Faculty knew they were supported, families sensed the school was in capable hands, and trustees could depend on a leader who combined long-term vision with daily reliability. His approach shows that leadership isn’t always about dramatic actions but about making wise decisions, nurturing strong relationships, and maintaining a steady temperament that keeps an institution rooted while advancing it. In a field that often prizes urgency, he exemplifies something rarer and more lasting: leadership that is truly worth following.”

MARC FRANKEL BOARD OF TRUSTEES (2007-PRESENT)

OWW SPRING 2026

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