Brendan Browne

Background

About Brendan Browne

Dr. Brendan Browne is the Director of Education and CEO of the Toronto Catholic District School Board, the largest publicly funded Catholic school board in the world. He leads a system of more than students in nearly 200 schools. Under his leadership, the board’s graduation rate has climbed to 91.4%, with elementary students leading in reading and writing and secondary students achieving top results in mathematics. With over 28 years of experience in education, Dr. Browne is recognized for advancing equity, student well-being, mental health, and inclusive education. Under his leadership, TCDSB has implemented its Multi-Year Strategic Plan, Equity Action Plan, Mental Health Action Plan, and Pastoral Plans—initiatives that balance the board’s values with the evolving needs of students and school communities. He previously served on the Board of Directors of Bethany Kids Hospital in Kenya, an organization dedicated to providing surgical and rehabilitative care for children in East Africa. His involvement reflected a strong commitment to service, equity, and supporting vulnerable children and families beyond his local community. Dr. Browne also serves as Chair of the Appointments Committee at St. Michael’s College, University of Toronto, and is a member of Ontario’s provincial leadership committee for school mental health, collaborating on province-wide strategies to strengthen student supports. He holds a PhD in Educational Studies with a research focus on invitational leadership and is a published author and contributor to educational journals and leadership modules. His academic work bridges research and practice, providing actionable strategies that drive systemic change in education. Through strategic planning, policy development, and governance, Dr. Browne continues to foster innovation in public education, ensuring that students are prepared to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.