Douglas Murphy

Director

Dr. Murphy brings to UAS over 32 years of experience in education including the role of Secondary Principal at the Uruguayan American School from 2022 to 2025. He previously held leadership roles in California and at Cayman International School, and holds an EdD in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University, along with advanced degrees in Sport Management and Secondary Education. With experience in Peru, the Cayman Islands, and the U.S., his leadership philosophy emphasizes emotional intelligence, integrity, and relationship-building. He is committed to engaging the hearts and minds of students and staff to develop an environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and personally. He believes that effective education is rooted in service, compassion, and trust—values that guide his approach to supporting both students and staff.

Bob McCarthy

Secondary Principal

Mr. McCarthy is an experienced educator and school leader who has taught and served as a principal in a wide range of school communities – from affluent suburban communities to urban, low-income settings, as well as international schools in Colombia and Italy. He holds a Masters in Teaching from Brown University and a Masters in Education from Harvard University. He has been recognized by state and professional organizations for his efforts to lead school-wide continuous improvement efforts through collaborative structures and by keeping students at the center of every decision.

Keitsa Brisson

Elementary Principal

Ms. Brisson was the Elementary School Principal at Danube International School, in Vienna, Austria. She also served as the Primary Years Program (PYP) Coordinator, Learning Support Coordinator, and Elementary Counselor, a testament to her versatility and broad Elementary School knowledge.

Prior to her experience in Vienna, Ms. Brisson was the Early Childhood and Elementary Principal for six years at Country Day School in San José, Costa Rica. Before moving into administration, she was a teacher trainer for the Abu Dhabi Education Council in the United Arab Emirates and taught education courses at colleges in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Savannah, Georgia. Ms. Brisson began her career teaching Early Childhood and Elementary School for 13 years in her home state of Georgia in the United States. With nearly three decades in education, including having taught at every grade level from Pre-Kinder to Grade 5, Ms. Brisson brings to UAS a wealth of experience in elementary school. In addition, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Masters degree in Instructional and Curriculum Leadership, and is completing a certificate in Pedagogy and Montessori Education.