He expects the school’s new leadership, President Steve Strathmann, to “keep the momentum going.”
Collison, 63, has worked 41 years in education, 30 of which in school leadership, He enjoyed “influencing young people,” he said.
This week, while driving on Interstate 75, he noticed the flashing words on the sign at Solid Rock Church in Monroe: “Every end is a new beginning.”
He called those words “God’s wink,” though he has no plans for the future.
“It’s been a great run,” he said.
Collison leaves behind a remarkable legacy of dedication, innovation, and service to the community, according to a release from Fenwick.
“Blane has been an extraordinary leader and mentor to both our staff and students,” Strathmann said. “His passion for education and unwavering commitment to our community have left a lasting impression. While we will certainly miss his leadership, we wish him nothing but the best as he begins this new chapter in his life.”
Collison’s journey in education began at the University of Dayton, where he earned his undergraduate degree in 1984.
In 1992, he continued his professional growth by obtaining a master’s in Education Administration from Xavier University. His early career included teaching and coaching for 10 years in the Northwest Local School District, where he also served as assistant principal.
His administrative career includes leadership roles as principal at St. Vincent Ferrer from 1995 to 2003, followed by principal of Moeller High School from 2003 to 2017.
He was named principal at Fenwick in 2017.
During his tenure at Fenwick, Collison spearheaded several transformative initiatives aimed at fostering academic excellence and creating an inclusive environment for all students, according to Fenwick. Under his leadership, the school introduced innovative programs and initiatives that have “significantly enhanced student achievement and personal growth,” according to the release.
He also led several impactful capital improvement projects, including the creation of the Atrium Medical Center Plaza, new tennis courts funded by the Dupps Company Charitable Foundation, upgrades to the track and field, and major upgrades to the football stadium and ‘Falcons Landing,’ all made possible through the generosity of the Yeager family.
He also was the driving force behind the creation of The Nest Counseling Program, a unique space where students can access support while engaging in activities that promote personal growth and well-being.
The school plans a retirement celebration for Collison and details will be announced in the coming weeks.
A search committee is being formed to identify his successor, and an official announcement regarding the opening of the principal position will follow soon.
Dan Eddingfield, president of field consultants, will oversee the hiring process and is available for inquiries at daneddingfield@gmail.com.
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