Announcing Melinda Bihn, Ed.D., as ‘Iolani School's next Head of School

Dr. Bihn will begin tenure with the 2026-27 school year

Following a national search that began with 200 candidates, ‘Iolani School is proud to announce the appointment of Melinda Bihn, Ed.D., as its next Head of School, effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Bihn brings more than three decades of leadership and classroom experience in independent and international schools, most recently serving as Head of School at The International School of San Francisco.

A visionary educator and accomplished leader, Dr. Bihn has dedicated her career to fostering academic excellence, student well-being, and professional development for faculty and staff. At the International School of San Francisco, she oversees a dynamic PK2-12 program of more than 1,000 students and 250 staff members. Under her leadership for the past 11 years, the school has accelerated its academic programs, enhanced its International Baccalaureate offerings, and helped students achieve consistently outstanding outcomes in standardized exams and college admissions. She also led the school’s early and safe reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Dr. Bihn stood out in an incredibly strong pool of candidates not only for her impressive credentials and experience, but for her warmth, integrity, and deep commitment to student-centered learning,” said Dr. Mark Mugiishi, Chair, ‘Iolani School Board of Governors.

This announcement makes Dr. Bihn the first woman in ‘Iolani School's 162-year history to be appointed by the Board of Governors as Head of School.

“It is a tremendous honor to be named the next Head of School at ‘Iolani School,” said Melinda Bihn, Ed.D. “This school has a remarkable 162-year legacy, a vibrant community, and a deep commitment to excellence in all aspects of education. I am thrilled to join this extraordinary school.”

The current Associate Head of School, Melanie Pfingsten, will temporarily lead ‘Iolani School during the next school year until Dr. Bihn officially begins in 2026.

“We are profoundly grateful to Melanie, who will bring her thoughtful and steady leadership as Interim Head of School next year,” added Dr. Mugiishi.

Dr. Bihn holds a Doctorate in Educational and Organizational Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania and is a Klingenstein Heads Fellow at Teachers College, Columbia University. She also holds graduate degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and The College of New Jersey, as well as a bachelor’s degree in English from Santa Clara University.

She began her career teaching English and French in international schools throughout Europe and has since held roles at prominent schools in the U.S. as Department Head, Director of Studies, Upper School Head, and now Head of School.

Dr. Bihn currently serves on the boards of the California Teacher Development Collaborative and the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Education. In addition, she was awarded the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques in 2023, which is the highest honor bestowed on educators by the French government.