Leadership Spotlight: Matthew D. Wilkens
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the General Director and Head of School search for Mark Twain International School in Bucharest, Romania. Congratulations to Matthew D. Wilkens for accepting the position, beginning July 2024! Matthew most recently served as Superintendent at Dar Jana International Schools in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Matthew holds a PhD in Global Leadership & Change from Pepperdine University; a 4-Year Certificate in School Leadership & Management from Harvard University; MA in Education from Pepperdine University; BSc in Business Management from Pepperdine University; and a California Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential.
In his previous experiences, Matthew has served as Head of School at Westview School of Arts and Technology, Acting Director at Rolling Hills Prep and Renaissance Schools, and Dean of Students at Johns Hopkins.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
Twenty-five years ago, I took a teaching role at my alma mater, which led to the realization that working in education was my calling! Helping scholars and school communities achieve goals quickly became a life’s ambition. Working in the cultural mosaic of Los Angeles, my drive and spark for education grew, as I progressed through every role imaginable.
Early on, as a multi-subject teacher, coach, educational therapist, testing administrator, and dean of students, to later, leading as a director, head of school, entrepreneur, published researcher, panelist, and superintendent of schools, my global lens expanded, and so too did my curiosity for the roads less traveled. The ever-evolving nature of international education compelled me to pursue my Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Change. The challenge of complexity and the opportunity to foster cross-cultural understanding on a global platform further propelled me to publish the “Meta Leadership Inventory,” an assessment tool for international school leaders. This dynamic field constantly pushes me to innovate, adapt, and cultivate.
Mark Twain International School
Congratulations on your upcoming role at Mark Twain International School! What are you excited about in this new role?
As the new General Director/Head of School at Mark Twain International School, I’m thrilled to build upon the impressive foundation laid by its renowned founders Anca and Dan Macovei. I’m excited to champion global citizenship, advance innovative learning, and strengthen community engagement.
My hopes include expanding MTIS’s influence across Romania through my dual role as superintendent of the Romania Education Alliance, nurturing future leaders who are confident and internationally-minded, and fostering an even more inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated.
I’m eager to work with the dedicated staff to enhance student-led inquiry and progressive learning approaches. Together, leading the brilliant and creative scholars that comprise the collective fabric of MTIS will be a career highlight and a true source of professional pride. As both an educator and new MTIS parent, I look forward to connecting with families and contributing to the school’s welcoming atmosphere. I’m honored to collaborate with the MTIS community, advancing innovation and pursuing excellence as we embark on this transformative journey together.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the MTIS community expect?
My educational philosophy centers on providing every student with a solid foundation of knowledge, nurturing a spirit of inquiry, and instilling a passion for lifelong learning. I’m committed to ensuring each child reaches their fullest potential and is well-equipped for future success in an interconnected world.
As an international school leader, I employ a coaching approach to leadership, viewing our school as a team, where everyone has a crucial role. All stakeholders – students, faculty, staff, parents, and administration – are empowered to leverage their unique strengths to foster collective success through individual growth and shared responsibility. By developing a spirit of teamwork, partnership, and trust, together we create a foundation for positive change that enhances our institution and elevates student achievement across the board.
The MTIS community can expect a highly visible leader dedicated to encouraging a collaborative, inclusive atmosphere that prioritizes student success and continuous improvement throughout the school.
Matthew and students
Matthew, his wife Amy, daughter Violet, and their three dogs: Angel, Daisy and Odin
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
My family and I are passionate about animals and nature! We have three rescue pups that are coming with us to Romania: Angel, Daisy, and Odin. I have been an avid fishkeeper since age 8, and enjoy building and nurturing aquariums and ponds. My wife, Amy, has dedicated years to rescuing and rehabilitating draft horses using natural horsemanship techniques. Our dearest daughter Violet, soon to be 8, constantly campaigns for various farm animals to join our menagerie. We are looking forward to exploring Romania’s diverse wildlife and beautiful countryside, which will surely appeal to our love of nature and animals. This shared interest in animal welfare and the natural world not only brings us joy as a family but also aligns with our values of compassion and environmental stewardship.
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
My experience with ISS was different from other search firms. Arnie took the time to understand my unique background and was very supportive throughout the process.
Congratulations and many thanks to Matthew for these reflections! We are wishing him and the whole family a happy and fulfilling transition into their new country and community. You can connect with Matthew on LinkedIn, plus find his work in publications below:
Wilkens, M. D. (2023). The Meta-leadership inventory: developing a valid and reliable instrument for international school leaders (Doctoral dissertation, Pepperdine University).
De Leon, Lisa and Wilkens, Matthew D. (2023) “Establishing Connectivity and Trust in High Schools During COVID-19,” The Scholarship Without Borders Journal: Vol. 1: Iss. 2, Article 8.DOI: https://doi.org/10.57229/2834-2267.1023
Wilkens family in Egypt
If you’re interested in pursuing a school leadership position, please check out our current leadership searches or get in touch with the ISS Leadership Search Team.