Director of Admission and Financial Aid Audra McFarland’s experience with independent school admission began at the start of her own high school career at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire. She clearly remembers how privileged she felt learning in an environment so singularly focused on supporting students in their personal growth and goals, an experience that inspired her decision to build a career in independent school admission and pay forward the benefits she gained as an independent school student.

Audra volunteered in the admission office of her high school and in college at the University of Virginia, where, as a Jefferson Scholar, she earned her bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology. She also taught English as a second language to members of the UVA dining hall staff and worked in a women’s center where she went on to participate in a leadership program with a local middle school. Her desire to help students explore and actualize their identity during their formative years cemented her decision to work in middle- and high-school settings.

Students and families are at the center of Audra’s work. She loves getting to know families and their stories, and deeply appreciates all that they share with the admission team. She finds joy and fulfillment in helping parents better understand their children through the admission process, and in supporting every family as they find the right environment for their child’s optimal learning and growth. Since 2020, she has provided thoughtful mentorship to the students who volunteer and work in the Admission Office, and led Winsor’s admission team in their effort to share access to the transformative experience that defines a Winsor education with the most extraordinary and qualified students in Greater Boston.