Introducing Our Next Head of School:
Dr. Melinda Zacher Ronayne

The Chicago Academy for the Arts is excited to welcome Dr. Melinda Zacher Ronayne as our next Head of School.

Mindy will officially step into the role in the summer of 2025, following the incredible tenure of Jason Patera, who has been part of The Academy for nearly 30 years.

Mindy brings with her a deep passion for arts education, a talent for leading with purpose, and a clear vision for what’s possible. Currently serving as Director of Visual Arts at Interlochen Center for the Arts, she has led transformative initiatives across the Academy, Camp, and Interlochen Online—expanding access, deepening curriculum, and championing student success.

A practicing visual artist herself, Mindy holds an Ed.D. in Leadership and Learning in Organizations from Vanderbilt University and degrees from the Maryland Institute College of Art. Over the years, Mindy has helped secure major grants and endowments, created innovative programs in citizen artistry and arts in medicine, and mentored students who’ve gone on to win national recognition. Her work has made a meaningful impact—not just at Interlochen, but across the country.

“As the Academy approaches its 50th anniversary in 2031, I hope to cultivate even more community partnerships—broadening our reach and deepening our impact as we take The Chicago Academy for the Arts to the next level” she says. “The Academy prepares its students to use their talents to make a real difference in the world. It’s a tremendous honor to join this team, and I can’t wait to see what the next few years have in store for us at The Academy.”

Mindy and Jason are working together to ensure a smooth and thoughtful leadership transition. Jason will be moving to Charleston, South Carolina, to become Head of School at The Cooper School, where his stepdaughter will be in sixth grade, and spend more time with family. Although Jason will be based in Charleston, he will remain closely connected to The Academy, particularly in fundraising and alumni relations.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Mindy for years on the board of Arts Schools Network and with the Arts Schools Consortium,” Jason shared. “She’s an outstanding leader, deeply respected in the arts education community, and the perfect person to take The Academy forward.”

We look forward to introducing Mindy to the full Academy community in the coming months—and to this exciting next chapter in our school’s story.

To learn more about Mindy, see her website at melindaronayne.com.