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IMG Academy announced today that it has named Michael Lehan as its new Head of School. As part of his duties, he will oversee, organize, and grow the infrastructure of the school’s academic programs while assisting with various aspects of the athletic program.
He will assume his role in February 2022.
“We’re thrilled to welcome our new Head of School, Michael Lehan, and his family to IMG Academy,” remarked Tim Pernetti, Chief Operating Officer, IMG Academy. “Michael brings a truly unique combination of more than a decade of experience as an educator, great success as a student-athlete at the University of Minnesota, and a six-year career playing in the NFL. He possesses a deep understanding of what it takes to not only be a high-performing student and athlete on and off the field but also how to develop critical life skills to lay the foundation for a lifetime of leadership and service.”
“IMG Academy offers the ideal environment for me to put into practice both my careers as a student and professional athlete and as an educator,” remarked Lehan. “I’m looking forward to drawing on my experiences to continue the Academy’s strong academic and athletic tradition while expanding opportunities for student-athlete development.”
After a standout career at Hopkins High School in Minnetonka, Minn., the former cornerback played four years at the University of Minnesota, where he was named team captain during his senior year. He would later get drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round in 2003 and go on to enjoy a six-year career with the Browns (2003-05), Miami Dolphins (2006-2008), and New Orleans Saints (2008) before transitioning to a career in academia.
When his athletic career ended, Lehan became Dean of Students and Assistant Principal for the Osseo Area Schools, the fifth-largest school system in Minnesota, serving 20,000 students. He was soon promoted to Principal of Osseo Senior High School, a role he held for five years that led to him being named 2019 “Hennepin Division Principal of Year” and 2020 “Principal of the Year” by the Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals. During his tenure, he guided the school to its first-ever ranking as one of “The Best High Schools” in the nation by US News & World Report, an honor the school held for three straight years. Lehan was promoted to his most recent role of Assistant Superintendent for Equity and Achievement for Osseo Area Schools in July 2020 and was recently honored as a Distinguished Alumni by the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota.
In addition to his work in education, Lehan has actively engaged in community service and various mentorship programs, including serving on the boards for The Bridge for Youth homeless shelter, the University of Minnesota Foundation, and St. Mary’s University, as well as partnering with Hope & Home, a foster care located in Colorado Springs.
Lehan received his Bachelor of Science in Family Social Sciences in 2002 from the University of Minnesota. He holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from St. Mary’s University, an Educational Specialist Degree, K-12 principal licensure, and Superintendent licensure. Lehan is currently enrolled at the University of St. Thomas and will soon complete his Doctor of Education. He also currently serves as an adjunct professor at Concordia University.
Lehan was selected following a rigorous several months-long search led by renowned search firm Carney, Sandoe & Associates, who specialize in educator appointments. He and his family will relocate from Minnesota to Bradenton, Fla.
