O'Neal Announces John Samples as Head of School
The O’Neal School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of John Samples as the School’s next Head of School. This appointment follows a comprehensive national search and a unanimous recommendation from the Head of School Search Committee and Board of Trustees.
A longtime member of The O’Neal School community, Samples brings a distinctive combination of educational leadership, military service, and deep institutional knowledge to the role. As a parent of O’Neal alumni, a former coach, Trustee, and founder of O’Neal’s Leadership Academy, he has spent more than a decade investing in the growth and success of the School.
Throughout the search process, committee members sought a leader who could strengthen O’Neal’s administrative foundation, support excellence in academics, arts, and athletics, and cultivate a culture rooted in character, community, and service. According to the Search Committee, Samples emerged as a standout candidate because of his proven leadership, commitment to O’Neal’s mission, and understanding of the School’s unique role within the Sandhills community.
“John distinguished himself early in our evaluation process,” says Dr. John Berry, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “He was highly regarded by parents, faculty, staff, and Trustees for his warmth, integrity, and extensive leadership experience. He embodies O’Neal’s values and understands the importance of fostering a culture where students are challenged to achieve excellence while developing strong character.”
Professionally, Samples brings decades of leadership experience from a distinguished military career. He served in numerous command and administrative roles throughout his service and earned multiple honors, including the Legion of Merit. His academic credentials include degrees from Michigan State University, Eastern Michigan University, and the U.S. Army War College.
His passion for The O’Neal School has long been evident through both his actions and words. In an essay written in 2019, Samples described O’Neal as “a community of like-minded people who share one indisputable goal: we want our children to change the world by living to their potential.”
The Board of Trustees expressed confidence that Samples will build upon O’Neal’s strong foundation while advancing its mission to prepare students for college, career, and lives of purpose. His leadership is expected to further strengthen the School’s commitment to academic excellence, character development, citizenship, and community engagement.
“Mr. Samples has the heart and spirit to serve as a model and mentor for our students and faculty,” says Berry. “He embodies the principles of excellence and service that we hope to inspire in our students. As an Army veteran, he understands our military community. He will strengthen our O’Neal community, which supports and cares for our military families, as we are extremely proud of and thankful for our Falcon Families who serve. So, as the parents of a prospective student, if you are asking “Why O’Neal?” you only need to ask John Samples.”
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