Fort Worth Country Day (FWCD), the oldest co-ed college-preparatory school in Fort Worth, has appointed Abby Abbott as its new Head of Upper School, which has 366 students in grades 9-12 for the 2025-2026 school year.
Abbott, a seasoned educator with 19 years of experience, brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership skills, and a deep passion for the 3A’s—academics, arts and athletics—that are central to FWCD’s mission. Her appointment follows a rigorous national search that included input from FWCD’s Upper School faculty, academic department chairs, parents on the Board of Trustees, and members of the school’s senior leadership team.
Born and raised in a small town on Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Abbott earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in International Diplomacy with a focus on Terrorism and Counterterrorism from Norwich University in Vermont. Her career spans teaching engagements in the United States and abroad, including roles in North Carolina, Italy and Connecticut.
Abbott’s leadership experience includes her time at St. Luke’s School in New Canaan, Connecticut, where she served as assistant division head. There, she spearheaded initiatives to support ninth graders, revamped orientation programs, and created systems to track and enhance students’ academic and social well-being. She also helmed student life programs, including expanding a Model United Nations organization to include over 100 students, launching a competitive Mock Trial Team, and founding the Women in Humanities Club.
“Abby stood out for her innovative approach to education and her demonstrated ability to balance tradition with forward-thinking strategies,” said Eric Lombardi, FWCD’s head of school. “Her passion for learning, her deep respect for faculty and student engagement, and her connections to the arts and athletics make her an exceptional fit for our community. We are thrilled to welcome her as our new head of Upper School and look forward to seeing her lead with vision and excellence.”
At FWCD, Abbott will lead the Upper School’s programs, faculty and initiatives, working closely with students, parents and teachers to foster a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. Committed to faculty development, she plans to further FWCD’s mission by celebrating and nourishing faculty talent, while also inspiring students to reach their full potential. Her leadership style emphasizes curiosity, joy and collaboration.
“I am honored to join the FWCD community and excited to be part of such a dynamic and special school,” said Abbott. “I am inspired by the curiosity and energy of the students, the dedication and talent of the faculty, and the deep commitment of parents to the school’s mission. Together, we will continue to build on FWCD’s strong traditions while exploring opportunities for innovation and growth.”
ABOUT FORT WORTH COUNTRY DAY
Since 1963, Fort Worth Country Day has inspired the passion to learn, the courage to lead, and the commitment to serve through a program that fosters the intellectual, physical, emotional, and ethical development of its students. Situated on 104 acres in southwest Fort Worth, FWCD’s 220 faculty and staff members teach and support students in grades JK-12. Offering a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum, Fort Worth Country Day focuses on the 3A’s—academics, arts, and athletics—to provide balanced experiences and opportunities for students. To learn more about Fort Worth Country Day, visit www.fwcd.org or www.Facebook.com/FortWorthCountryDay.
