The Ben Lippen School Board and CIU Administration support Dr. Fajardo in his decision to step away at this juncture, as he announced in his letter today. We are grateful for Dr. Fajardo and his significant impact on the Ben Lippen community for over 7 years.  The Fajardos remain a beloved part of the Falcon family with two children continuing to attend Ben Lippen.   

The Ben Lippen School Board has voted to recommend Dr. Michael Johnson to serve as Interim Head of School, effective today, December 2, 2024 and Dr. Bill Jones, CIU President, has approved the recommendation. Dr. Johnson will not be a candidate for the permanent Head of School role.

Dr. Johnson is a Ben Lippen parent bringing extensive educational experience in the classroom and as an administrator. He served as Alaska’s Commissioner of Education for six years and previously held positions as a teacher, a principal and district superintendent.  Dr. Johnson will continue to serve as Dean of CIU’s College of Education.

Dr. Johnson is dedicated to maintaining Ben Lippen’s mission and forward movement. The Search Committee, under his Chairmanship, will continue identifying Ben Lippen’s next Head of School.

The Search Committee received valuable input in the nine listening sessions it hosted. That input will be included in the Head of School position profile. We look forward to providing updates to the Ben Lippen family throughout this process. Your questions or suggestions are appreciated and should be emailed to benlippensearch@benlippen.com. 

Please join us in thanking God for His provision and praying for His continued guidance. May His peace fill your hearts this Christmas season as you consider the eternal gift He has given us through a baby born in Bethlehem.

Dr. Bill Jones

President of Columbia International University

Dr. Neal Burkhalter

Chairman Ben Lippen School Board