Richard F. Odell

Richard F. Odell is recently retired from IMG Academy where he was Vice President of Student Affairs and IMG Academy Headmaster. He founded the PK-PG school of 1,000 students on IMG’s Bradenton, Florida campus in 2000. The school’s academic program and delivery is specifically designed to meet the college preparatory expectations of students and their families from 90 countries. This is accomplished by offering a unique blend of teaching styles that work for students who come to the school with a passion for sport and spend half of each day in that sport and the other half in school.

Mr. Odell began his professional career in 1972, working in fundraising and alumni affairs at his alma mater, Heidelberg University from which he had recently graduated. In 1976, he began serving independent schools in a variety of administrative capacities including: chief financial officer, development, alumni and marketing director, Assistant Headmaster, Headmaster and President. Much of his career has focused on serving schools that have struggled to find a niche that would provide long-term financial stability, a strong public image and success. He has also helped schools develop new revenue sources, streamline administrative operations and think strategically about what elementary–secondary education might look like 10 years out and help Boards, Administrators and faculty design facilities and programs ahead of the education curve.

Mr. Odell has served on a number of not-for-profit boards including: The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), and national, state and local arts councils. He is regarded by many as an education visionary.

Mr. Odell graduated with a music education degree from Heidelberg University in 1972 and from Bowling Green State University with a master’s degree in Student Personnel in 1976. He is married and has three grown children.