Modern World & US HistoryElizabeth Marsden

I am a storyteller first and foremost, and my love of stories led me to become both a historian and a teacher. I find joy in learning about the world and sharing experiences, and I am a lifelong learner in the truest sense of the word. I strive for my students to become better writers, analysts, and researchers in my classes, emphasizing curiosity and critical thinking over names and dates.

I received my BA in History from Santa Clara University, and continued to pursue my education through an MA in Social Sciences at the University of Chicago and an MEd in Secondary Education from Stanford University before entering the classroom. I have taught both in the United States and abroad, working primarily with English language learners and students with learning challenges, and loved every second of it. I also had the honor of working as a College Counselor and as a History Department Head. After six years of teaching, I began working in international education, pursuing an MSc in International Development from the University of Edinburgh, and working at international non-profits for four years. I then returned to teaching in the Spring of 2025 and am thrilled to be here at McLean, working with our amazing Upper School students.

In my spare time, I am pursuing my PhD in Political Science from George Mason University, consume an unhealthy amount of television and books (primarily of the science fiction and fantasy persuasion), and adore board games.