Cynthia L Pope
Cynthia Pope is the Dean of Enrollment and Strategic Initiatives at Franklin Academy, a premier boarding school in East Haddam, Connecticut, dedicated to serving neurodivergent students. As one of the school’s founders, she has spent nearly 25 years shaping a college preparatory environment that emphasizes strength-based, student-centered education. Her leadership focuses on supporting the whole child through flexible social-emotional programming, college and career readiness, and residential life instruction, ensuring that students not only thrive academically but also develop confidence and independence.
With a background in fine arts and English, Cynthia holds an MFA from Bard College and a BA from Wilson College. She combines her creative and analytical skills to design enrollment strategies, present at conferences nationwide, and educate families and schools on best practices for working with neurodivergent learners. Her role also includes interviewing prospective students, traveling to share Franklin Academy’s mission, and serving as a senior cabinet member, shaping policies and programs that directly impact student success.
Cynthia’s impact is evident in the outcomes of her students: Franklin alumni complete college at roughly twice the national average for neurodivergent learners. Beyond her work at the Academy, she is actively involved in her community, including service with the Regional Agricultural Council and support for equine retirement initiatives. Recognized as one of Connecticut’s Influential Women in 2026, Cynthia continues to champion education that redefines what is possible for students who have historically been underserved by traditional schools.
• MFA in Painting and Printmaking
• Bard College- M.F.A.
• Wilson College- B.A.
• Regional Agricultural Council (Chester Representative)
• Franklin Academy (Non-Profit Boarding School)
• Mitchell Farm (Equine Retirement Farm)
• Regional Agricultural Council
What do you attribute your success to?
I would probably attribute my success to my energy and my drive. As a kid, I had tremendous anxiety and was always trying to be a perfectionist, but I realized you can't be a perfectionist - you can contribute, though, if that makes sense. I'm just involved and pretty driven. I also went to a women's college for undergraduate, and some of the mentors that I had there were people that stayed in my life forever. They were fantastic, really awesome, smart, driven women. I don't think that I was real confident, but those mentors were just incredible influences on me.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say trust your instincts and go for it. I think today, so many young women are told what they can't do or what they shouldn't do. You need to have that curiosity and that ability to take a risk and not worry about failing. You know, we learn a lot from falling down. Don't play it safe, I guess.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field is that many traditional schools still fail neurodivergent students by focusing on deficits rather than strengths, leaving gaps in life skills, social-emotional growth, and academics. The greatest opportunity lies in the growing recognition of specialized, college-preparatory programs that support these learners and in expanding education for families and other schools.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I'm all about lifting others up and giving people who may not have an opportunity an opportunity. It's not just about yourself - it's really about making it possible for others to be recognized and appreciated. I believe 100% in bringing other women up with us. When I talk with other women, we talk about real stuff - not just boardroom stuff. It's about feelings and emotions and hopes and dreams.