Linden Hall School for Girls has announced that Nan Wodarz, head of school, has been named one of Central Penn Business Journal's 2023 Women of Influence. The designation identifies high-achieving women in various fields for their career accomplishments.

Women of Influence honorees are selected based on their professional experience, community involvement and commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders. In addition to being celebrated as a Woman of Influence, Wodarz was entered into the Circle of Excellence, which consists of women who have earned longstanding, notable success in their communities while leading the way for other women to achieve their dreams.

A professional networking reception and awards celebration was held on June 27 at the Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey in Harrisburg to honor and recognize this year's Women of Influence. In addition to offering attendees the opportunity to connect with one another, the event included a banquet and presentations from several corporate sponsors.

Wodarz received the Women of Influence award based on her long-standing career of service, teaching and mentoring around the world. She first arrived at Linden Hall in the summer of 2020, initially being appointed interim head of school. In spring 2022, the board of trustees unanimously named her permanent head of school, making her the first female in Linden Hall's 277-year history to hold the position.

Wodarz's professional journey began in the late 1980s, when she taught in some of the most impoverished areas in the United States. As her career advanced, teaching graduate classes allowed her to connect with teachers and leaders who influence the course of children's lives.

After leaving the classroom, Wodarz chose a career in educational administration. She has published hundreds of professional articles, participated in speaking engagements and hosted a radio program focused on leadership strategies. During her years working outside the U.S., she collaborated with ministries of education on country-wide school reform efforts. Her endeavors have always placed an emphasis on education, creating opportunities for girls, and developing programs for those with special needs.

Wodarz's professional qualifications include not only her work experience but also her education. She completed postdoctoral work at The Wharton School, Harvard Business School and Harvard Graduate School of Education. Additionally, in the past, she has been recognized by governmental organizations, including the Department of Defense and the Department of Education, as well as by universities and school districts around the U.S. She has served on corporate boards, including the YMCA and the Association of School Business Officials International.

Linden Hall School for Girls is located at 212 E. Main St., Lititz. For more information, visit http://www.lindenhall.org.