![Tom Dugan]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1724268398/suffieldacademyorg/grzkhuxmrgjk6k6elycv/20240823_FacultySpotlightDuganHP.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1724268398/suffieldacademyorg/grzkhuxmrgjk6k6elycv/20240823_FacultySpotlightDuganHP.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1724268398/suffieldacademyorg/grzkhuxmrgjk6k6elycv/20240823_FacultySpotlightDuganHP.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1724268398/suffieldacademyorg/grzkhuxmrgjk6k6elycv/20240823_FacultySpotlightDuganHP.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1724268398/suffieldacademyorg/grzkhuxmrgjk6k6elycv/20240823_FacultySpotlightDuganHP.jpg","width":1505}])
Tom is the Director of Theater and Dance, teaches senior-level English, coaches the Kent-Davis speaking competition, and manages the headwaiter program. He is an active member of the New England Theater Conference and the Educational Theatre Association. Tom earned both his undergraduate and graduate degrees in theater education from Emerson and worked for several years at Mercersburg Academy as the Assistant Director of Summer Programs and Admissions. Prior to teaching, Tom was in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando. He lives on campus with his wife, Heather [counseling and academic support], sons, Patrick ’28 and Bailey, and daughter, Kaitlyn.
What do you love about where you are from?
Erie, PA. Such an odd spot. Terrible winters with the snow but beautiful summers on the lake. They have this small amusement park there that I loved going to as a kid. Check out Waldameer!
Where is your favorite spot on Suffield Academy's campus?
When I'm not at the PAC, I love sitting on my side porch of the house. It's on Main Street so I enjoy people watching!
What is the first thing you do every morning when you get to work?
Turn on the lights and sound! We are always playing music, getting ready for our next event!
Who is your favorite artist?
I've been watching a lot of standup comedy recently. I enjoy Matt Rife and Jeff Arucri...but ultimately my favorite is Max Weiner '18.
Which of your roles at Suffield Academy do you relish the most?
Directing shows!
What is something you believe one can never over-invest in?
Music! It does so much for you—it's the universal language!
What is your favorite motto?
I don't necessarily have a favorite motto, but I try to live by the idea that "everything will be alright." Just breathe and you'll figure things out.
What is your favorite food?
Steak and potatoes!