Paul Denison

Science, Outdoor Program, English, Administration
805-684-4127 x278
Paul_Denison@cate.org

BA, Middlebury College
Appointed: 1984

Paul Denison has dedicated his career to Cate as a teacher, administrator, and coach. He teaches a wide range of science courses, including Biology, Chemistry, Human Biology, and Advanced Genetics, as well as American Wilderness. In addition to his classroom work, Paul has held various administrative roles, including Director of the Outdoor Program, Associate Director of Admissions, and Dean of Students. He has also served as a dorm head for High House and Cook House.

A seasoned coach, Paul has led varsity and JV soccer teams and coached varsity lacrosse, including the State Champion team in 1994. An ACA Certified Whitewater Instructor and Wilderness First Responder (WFR), he brings his expertise to Cate’s Outdoor Program.

Paul is the inaugural holder of the Ellis Teaching Chair and has received the Burleigh Pattee Award and Spittler Cup. He lives with his wife, Downing, and their two children, Jack and Tessa '19, in the house in which he grew up.