Associate Director of Admissions & Director of Tuition Assistance
As a member of the class of ’85, Nan Bussey has long embodied the principals of a Shipley education. Though she pursued her career elsewhere, Nan was always intrigued by the idea of returning to Shipley and had the opportunity to do so in the summer of 2019. Nan brings with her an extensive background in admissions and tuition assistance, as well as an impressive coaching resume. In her free time, Nan enjoys spending time with her family, exercising and reading. Nan lives our motto, Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing and the school is thrilled to have her back as a part of the community.
Q. What makes you proud to be at Shipley?
I am a proud Shipley graduate! I am most proud of Shipley’s commitment to teaching students how to think critically and creatively and helping them to be both resilient and independent. Students leave Shipley believing that they can make a positive difference in the world and that makes me proud.
Q. As a colleague, what excites you about the new Positive Education initiative?
What excites me most about Shipley being the first Positive Education school in the country is the school’s commitment to the overall well-being of everyone in this community. Students learn how to use their character strengths to help them navigate Shipley’s rigorous academic program and busy days and at the same time focuses on their social, emotional and physical well-being.
Q. When you meet with prospective family, what do you hope they take away from the conversation?
I want them to realize what a special place Shipley is and that their child will be challenged and well taken care of both in and out of the classroom. I also want them to know that their child will be well prepared for life after Shipley as they will know how to advocate for themselves in all areas of their lives.
Q. What is your favorite part of the school year?
I love the excitement and energy at the beginning of the school year. Kids and adults are well rested and ready to jump into the adventures that lie ahead.
Q. How does Shipley get to know each individual child?
Shipley has such a great support system for students. Every student is known well by a large number of adults in this community. The adults at Shipley wear many different hats throughout the day including an advisor, teacher, coach, art director, activities advisor, counselor, and administrator. The relationships formed in all these areas allow the adults to see the whole child not just the child in one specific area.
Q. Switching gears – favorite vacation?
Any time I am away with my two daughters and husband are favorite vacations for me.
Q. What surprises you most about Shipley?
Not much surprises me about Shipley because I have always felt welcome in this community. As a student here for 13 years the faculty challenged me and supported me in ways that have made me who I am today. Shipley’s continued commitment to developing the whole child by providing so many different opportunities and challenges is truly amazing!