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Hewitt Faculty

Trained Experts, Research Practitioners, Lifelong Learners

Hewitt faculty members are trained experts committed to implementing the latest research on how girls learn best. Our faculty are not just teachers but research practitioners and lifelong learners who make the extraordinary journey of a Hewitt education possible. Deeply committed to knowing and challenging every student, Hewitt educators foster a truly unique and lifelong sense of purpose in young women.

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Meet Hewitt's Incredible Educators!

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Steven Gray, World Languages Teacher

I have been an educator for over 30 years, and I have spent the majority of my career at Hewitt. This school has a supportive community that makes students, families, and teachers feel valued and understood. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching Spanish is helping students grasp a new language and seeing them realize that they can communicate in a way that was previously impossible.

Spanish is the gateway to a vast world of culture, including art, music, film, and literature. The desire to experience this rich, diverse culture firsthand is a powerful motivator for both teachers and learners.

When I’m not teaching, you can find me deepening my understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures through travel, cooking, singing, dancing, reading, and writing poetry. These hobbies and passions introduce me to new, engaging, and authentic materials I can share with my students. 

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Lindsey Siferd, Associate Director of College Guidance

After a decade working in college admissions, I chose to work at Hewitt so that I could connect with and support high school students on their journey to college. 

Applying to college is a big, emotional, and potentially stressful decision, and I want to lift students up and celebrate their many achievements at Hewitt and beyond as they take this important next step in their education. 

I love working with juniors and seniors on their college applications. I am inspired by their resilience and hard work throughout the process, and by their joyful celebrations when they decide where they will go to college. 

Something you may not know about me is that I played classical violin as a child and now play in the orchestra at Hewitt! I also have an MFA in poetry and have published poems in various literary magazines and websites, and advise the Creative Writing Club.

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Ismini Georgiades, Ph.D., Middle School Psychologist

I am a psychologist with over twenty years of experience working with children and young adults.

I choose to work at Hewitt because the School's mission to empower girls and young women aligns with my personal and professional values. Respect, kindness, and joy are lived experiences each day in this school community. 

One of my favorite things about working with middle schoolers is the opportunity to connect with students and to be a supportive resource in their school journeys. I have a deep respect for all the work the students do to develop into confident and successful people.

Something you may not know about me is that I have published chapters on counseling women, and on the influence of culture on health. I also enjoy learning new skills and am currently learning how to crochet.

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Alexa Collingwood, Lower School Literacy Specialist

I have been an educator for more than a decade. I choose to work at Hewitt because I love our commitment to using research to ensure that all teaching and learning is student-centered and rooted in best practices. 

There is so much to love about teaching lower school students! They are incredibly capable young people who lead rich conversations, solve complex math problems, and design and author graphic novels. They also love stickers, dancing, and their teachers. It's the best!

As a literacy specialist, I have the privilege of helping children become skilled and joyful readers and writers. Supporting teachers as they hone their practices is also incredibly rewarding. 

When I’m not at work, I spend my time reading, reading, and more reading! I also spend a lot of time with my toddler and like to play with my poodle.

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Theresa Maiello, Lower School Mathematics Specialist

I have been an educator for 15 years. I choose to teach at Hewitt because the school’s emphasis on problem solving, exploration, and risk-taking in math education aligns perfectly with my own beliefs about teaching mathematics. 

Something I love about Hewitt is the joy that emanates from our classrooms. We are a strong and supportive community of students, faculty, staff, and families. 

I became a lower school math specialist because I enjoy providing students with opportunities to see themselves as mathematicians and problem-solvers. It is inspiring to watch students collaborate, engage in rich discussions, pose questions, and seek solutions. 

When I’m not in the classroom, you can find me traveling, taking dance and fitness classes, baking, and hiking.

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Sarah Luposello, Assistant Head of Lower School

I have been an educator for over a decade. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the school’s steadfast commitment to providing faculty with the most up-to-date information and research on teaching and learning.

One of my favorite things about teaching lower school students is that they are absolute sponges. They are honest, energetic, and have loads of questions and a deep desire to learn.  

I find teaching to be a highly creative profession. There are so many different ways to teach even the most basic concept, and I find it fascinating to discover the ways our brains learn best. 

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy making pasta, reading as much as I possibly can, and endurance running! I've found particular joy and passion volunteering as a guide for Achilles International, an awesome organization that partners athletes with disabilities with guides and support runners. 

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Kate Chechak, Assistant Head of Middle School

I have been an educator for over 20 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because it is a dynamic and supportive community where students, families, and teachers can be themselves. 

I love teaching middle school because it is a time of discovery, transformation, and awakening. Middle school students bring unique perspectives to the world and it's inspiring to witness their curiosity and resilience.

One of my favorite parts of being the assistant head of middle school at Hewitt is that I am deeply involved in every aspect of our community. Whether I’m meeting with parents and guardians, collaborating with the admissions team, supporting faculty, or enjoying a lunchtime game with students, I get to wear many hats and connect with every corner of the school. 

When I’m not at Hewitt, you can find me playing a vigorous game of Bananagrams with my two children! 

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Rebecca Meyer '08, Lower School Teacher

I have been an educator for over a decade. As an alumna of The Hewitt School, I choose to work here because I believe in our mission to empower girls to find and use their voices. 

Something I love about the Hewitt community is the way my colleagues inspire me. I enjoy visiting their classrooms, hearing about their lessons, and learning from them. 

I love teaching first graders! They are naturally curious and empathetic as they learn about the world. 

When I am not teaching, I enjoy sports such as tennis and golf, playing games, discovering sweet treats, and spending time with family and friends. 

Something you may not know about me is that, as a Hewitt middle schooler, I won an award for my commitment to making a difference in Hewitt's middle school.

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Nkenji Clarke, Ph.D., Upper School Psychologist

I have been an educator for close to a decade. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the school’s strong academic philosophy, dedication to equity and community, and commitment to empowering the brilliance of each girl at every step of their development.

Something I love about the Hewitt community is the laughter I hear throughout the school building every day.

It has been a lifelong dream to support the psychological needs of young people. Middle to late adolescence is a unique developmental period for girls and young women and they deserve a counselor who will advocate for them and ensure their needs are met. 

Outside of Hewitt, I love spending time with my mini labradoodle, who provides daily opportunities to remember the power of patience, joy, and time management! I also enjoy serving in my community for my alma mater, Spelman College, and professional counseling organizations.

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Gene Volel, Mathematics Teacher

I have been a teacher for three years. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the school’s commitment to equity, access, empowerment, and belonging. 

Middle and upper school are points of transition and transformation, where students are figuring out both who they are and who they want to be. I feel lucky that I can support and mentor students at such a formative moment in their lives.

I became a math teacher because I want to help students see math as accessible and fulfilling. Math class should be a place where they can practice critical thinking and solve problems that feel relevant to their lives and connected to their worlds.

Something you may not know about me is that I do a lot of music-related activities in my free time, including singing, playing piano and guitar, writing some music of my own, and arranging for choir and a cappella groups.

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Kat Miller, Physical Education Teacher

I have been an educator for seven years. I choose to work at The Hewitt School because this is a supportive and inclusive space where girls can express themselves, push their limits, take risks, and discover their strengths.

What I love most about Hewitt is the passion that everyone — students, faculty, staff, and families — has for this school. It is inspiring to see how much everyone values and loves being a part of this community.

One of my favorite things about teaching P.E. is the chance to work across lower, middle, and upper school. Building connections with my students and helping them grow and develop their confidence over the years is truly rewarding. 

Through my teaching, I aspire to empower young minds, foster a love for fitness, and lay the foundation for a healthier, more active future.

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Emily Gibson, Upper School Visual Arts Teacher

I have been an educator for two decades. I choose to work at Hewitt because I am committed to empowering girls and young women to create the world they imagine.

Something I love about the Hewitt community is our dedicated, knowledgeable, and passionate faculty. I also love getting to know the students and watching them grow as people during their time at Hewitt.  

One of the great joys of being a teacher is that I am a learner, too! My students bring a dynamic exchange of constantly evolving ideas to the studio classroom, and I feel challenged and encouraged by the new perspectives and experiences they share in our discussions. 

Something you may not know about me is that I was an educator at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). My work there gave me many opportunities to evolve as an artist and educator, and it was fascinating to learn how an institution like MoMA works.

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Meredith English, Middle School Dean of Students

I have been an educator for 36 years - more than 20 of those have been at Hewitt! I first experienced Hewitt as a parent, and when I saw what amazing teachers my daughter had, I leapt at the opportunity to join this community.  

It’s hard to choose just one reason I love working with middle schoolers. I enjoy their energy, laughter, inquisitiveness, and optimism. I'm grateful to be able to witness and share in the incredible growth each student experiences during their time in middle school.

I was drawn to teaching because I wanted to share with others the gift of finding oneself, and connecting with others, through reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

My passions include photography, listening to and playing jazz (I'm a rudimentary drummer), and playing tennis (as a teen I had a correspondence with Althea Gibson and hit with her at her club!). 

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Linda van Kesteren, Middle and Upper School Dance Teacher

I have been an educator for 15 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the school's ongoing commitment to raising the bar in the performing arts. Students are amazed at the high standard of the work they create. 

Something I love about the Hewitt community is the warmth of the adults and students.  Wherever you go at Hewitt, someone has a hello and kind words to share. 

One of my favorite things about teaching dance is the moment when students no longer worry over every movement and start accessing their creativity. 

When I’m not teaching, you can find me enjoying museums, classical music and opera, theater, dance, and cooking. 

A few things you may not know about me: I performed on and off Broadway for eight years, choreographed more than 50 shows, and co-created a show with Hewitt drama teacher Colleen Britt for the NYC International Fringe Festival.

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Sarah Marques, Ph.D., Upper School Science Teacher

I have been a teacher for over 10 years. Something I love about Hewitt is the passion our students bring to both their studies and a wide range of extracurriculars, including sports, debate, and outreach projects. 

I chose to teach high school science after noticing that many of my college students felt they needed to be perfect in order to succeed in chemistry and physics. I want to teach Hewitt students that successful scientists embrace and learn from mistakes.

Outside of the classroom, I love reading science news and novels, watching science fiction, and utilizing my skills as a chemist to cook and bake challenging foods. 

Something you may not know about me is that before joining The Hewitt School, I was a postdoctoral research fellow in the Chemical Engineering department at the Georgia Institute of Technology. 

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Robin Lentz, Lower School Visual Arts Teacher

I have been an educator for close to 30 years. I choose to teach at Hewitt because of our focus on what girls need to thrive in school and the way teachers are celebrated as lifelong learners. 

Something I love about the Hewitt community is the freedom to take creative risks. I am trusted to deliver an art program that reflects the girls' interests and enthusiasms. 

Nothing beats the enthusiasm of the lower school! Watching students embrace the magic of a new technique or feel empowered as they explore different materials in the art room brings me so much joy.

I was drawn to teach art because young artists are unstoppable forces. Every single 'problem' that arrives in the art room is fixable in infinite ways, and Hewitt students dig deep within themselves and take suggestions from each other as they tackle challenges.

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Leslie Rapchik, Upper School Dean of Students

I have been an educator for more than 20 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because I believe in our mission to inspire game changers and ethical leaders who forge an equitable, sustainable, and joyous future.

I love the Hewitt community because of my colleagues, who are genuinely passionate about their fields and are remarkable humans; and the students, who are strong-hearted with a flair for fun. 

Some of my favorite things about teaching are the "aha" moments when students observe something for the first time or experience a new perspective that surprises them. 

You may not know that I have a passion for this city and all of its secrets, hidden spaces, and stories from the past. I love to share my love for NYC with students in my Reading and Writing the City course. 

Outside of the classroom, I have presented at the National Coalition of Girls Schools Global Forum on Girls Education and authored a language arts workbook with Kaplan Publishing.

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Mike Del Galdo, Middle School Mathematics Teacher

I have been a teacher for over a decade. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the sense of belonging, respect, kindness, and joy everyone feels the moment they walk through the door. 

One of my favorite things about teaching middle school students is supporting them not only in their understanding of math, but also as they develop into individuals and independent thinkers. 

I am a firm believer that the middle school years are pivotal to a young learner’s love of and confidence in mathematics. There is no greater reward than seeing a middle schooler light up with excitement as they experience an “ah-ha” moment in math.

Outside of the classroom, I have recently discovered an appreciation for long distance running. I have successfully completed two half marathons and am currently training for my third.

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Mawa Ballo, Lower School Teacher

I have been an educator for five years. I choose to work at Hewitt because Hewitt girls are multifaceted and dedicated to becoming their best selves not only in the classroom but in everything they do.    

Something I love about the Hewitt community is the level of care everyone here shows for one another. We support each other and want each other to be successful. 

One of my favorite things about teaching lower schoolers is helping them find their confidence and seeing how that confidence sparks a huge change in each girl from the beginning to the end of the year. 

Outside of the classroom, you can find me tinkering with technology and learning new languages. I also love playing squash, and I am happy I get to share that passion with students as a coach for Hewitt’s varsity squash team. 

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Daniel Denver, Middle and Upper School Music Teacher

I have been an educator for over 30 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because my colleagues and I are committed to making every learning experience meaningful for our students. 

I am both a Hewitt teacher and a Hewitt parent, and this school has given me and my children a warm and caring community that feels like home. 

Making music with young people is one of the great joys of life. I am lucky enough to teach eight different grade levels, and it is very rewarding to watch students' growth over that time. 

Outside of the classroom, I have played in many bands and ensembles over the years. I won the Kenneth Davenport Composition Competition for my orchestral piece "veldt, dry August, 1892;" music by my band Tinctures was featured on the TV show Soul Food; and I have also written and performed music for many plays.

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Richard Wall, Ph.D., Upper School Science Teacher

I have been an educator for six years. I choose to teach at Hewitt because women are underrepresented in all STEM fields, but particularly in physics. I want to inspire students to find their passion for science and consider potential careers in these subjects.

One of my favorite things about teaching physics is seeing the creative and unexpected ways students solve problems and complete experimental design challenges.

When I’m not teaching, you can find me reading! I advise Hewitt’s upper school book club and enjoy reading the books students select for our monthly meetings.  

Something you may not know about me is that before committing to teaching full time, I was published, as part of a collaboration, in a couple of scientific journals. I also worked at major research labs involved in the study of elementary particle physics.

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Staci Hyman, Lower School Spanish Teacher

I have been an educator for almost 20 years. I was drawn to Hewitt because of the school's commitments to research-informed teaching practices and diversity, equity, and inclusivity. 

Something I love about teaching at Hewitt is the way that school leaders have empowered me to develop interactive learning experiences that encourage students to explore and celebrate their voices and develop awareness of and appreciation for people, languages, and cultures.

Some of my favorite things about teaching lower schoolers are their innate curiosity about ways of being throughout the world and the joy they exude when creating, exploring, and discovering.  

Outside of the classroom, I am a semi-new mid-life marathoner. I have run four marathons and have two more coming up!

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Haley Ryan, Upper School Latin Teacher

I have been an educator for three years. I choose to work at Hewitt because I appreciate the school’s culture of female empowerment. As the graduate of a girls’ school myself, I take pride in being able to teach young women who are dedicated and driven.

One of my favorite things about teaching upper school students is seeing how their intellectual curiosity and passion drive their learning.

I was drawn to teach Latin because I have experienced firsthand how studying the classics can shape our understanding of both the ancient and modern worlds.

When I’m not in the classroom, you can find me learning new languages, figure skating, reading, or traveling. 

Something you may not know about me is that my master's thesis, "Introducing Odysseus: Force, Resistance and Nostos in the Formation of Odysseus' Character" was published in early 2021. 

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Young Kim, Middle and Upper School Educational Technologist

I have been a teacher for almost 20 years. One of my favorite things about working at Hewitt is seeing how my students bring their personal creativity and a willingness to try new things to every project and lesson. 

I was drawn to teach visual art and design because these subjects encourage creative and hands-on problem solving, which is a valuable and fulfilling skill for young people to develop.  

Outside of the art studio and Innovation Lab, my hobbies include gardening, quilting, and photography. I also enjoy learning from my colleagues and teaching myself new skills via video tutorials. 

Something you may not know about me is that I have won two awards at the Queens County Farm and Museum Fair. In 2022, I took 1st place for my jam, and in 2023 I won 2nd place for a quilt I made.

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Alexia White, Middle and Upper School English Teacher

I have been an educator for over 25 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the warmth and familial atmosphere that I have felt here since day one.

Something I love about Hewitt is that we celebrate and nurture the unique qualities of every individual, students and faculty alike. No matter what you aspire to be or do, the place for you to pursue your dream is Hewitt. 

I was drawn to teach English because literature is powerful, healing, and a source of connection. I love taking a deep dive into a great book and feeling just as excited as the students to turn those pages, go on that journey, or solve a mystery. 

You may not know that I was an actress before I was a teacher and won an acting award when studying with the Moscow Art Theater as part of my MFA at Carnegie Mellon University. I love theater, acting, films of all genres, and my daughter’s comedy shows. 

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Kirsten Lindberg, Lower and Upper School Performing Arts Teacher

I have been an educator for more than two decades. I love teaching Hewitt’s youngest and oldest students because I get to build meaningful relationships with them and their families while watching them grow up! 

I was drawn to teach music because I am passionate about fostering a love for the performing arts in young people. 

Something you may not know about me is that my article, The Value of Staying at Your Independent School, was published in the Spring 2023 issue of the National Association of Independent Schools’ (NAIS) magazine. 

When I am not teaching, you can find me singing with and assistant conducting the SymphoNYChorus, a nonprofit choir and orchestra for adults.

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Lara Emre, Lower School Teacher

I have been a teacher for two years. I choose to work at Hewitt because there is so much exploration and inquiry happening around every corner. 

Something I love about Hewitt is my supportive and knowledgeable colleagues. They constantly inspire me and I love sharing ideas about best teaching practices with them.  

One of my favorite parts about teaching lower school is when my students start to find comfort and solace in books. As an avid reader myself, I love helping them discover books that excite them and provide imaginative places for them to explore. 

When I am not teaching, I am happiest with a good book, a cup of coffee, and the sights and sounds of nature. 

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Lemon Chung, Middle School History Teacher

I have been an educator for four years. I choose to work at Hewitt because the school prioritizes academic excellence and recognizes the value of each student’s personal development and passions.  

Something I love about Hewitt is that being a teacher here means I am surrounded by a strong network of supportive colleagues.

One of my favorite things about teaching middle school is supporting students on their journey to discover themselves as individuals, understand their role in their community, and find their place in the larger world. 

I enjoy teaching history because my students are interested in understanding how the world works and want to use that knowledge to make informed decisions and bring about change for themselves and the future.

When I’m not teaching, I like to read, watch historical documentaries, and visit museums. 

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Miriam Walden, Upper School English Teacher

I have been an educator for 20 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the opportunities I have to collaborate with students and colleagues around new approaches to curriculum and community learning.

One of my favorite things about teaching high school is seeing how students grow and develop as they prepare for college. My goal is always to help students discover what is truly important to them so they can make an authentic, meaningful path through the many choices they face.

I was drawn to teach English because literature expresses the question, "What does it mean to be human?" Writing and discussing literature provide a structure in which to contemplate our most central human concerns.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy creative writing, reading, visiting museums, queer performance art, camping, and hiking.

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María Paz Domínguez, Ph.D., Middle and Upper School World Languages Teacher

I have been an educator for over a decade. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the school's commitment to girls' education and the warm, welcoming, collaborative community.  

One of my favorite things about teaching Spanish is how each learner enriches our classroom discussions with their own perspective and experience. Their curiosity deepens our understanding of, and appreciation for, our rich and complex world. 

I was drawn to teach Spanish because the language and culture are a big part of New York City and United States history, and I want to inspire learners to explore, understand, and feel part of this broader community. 

When I am not teaching, I enjoy reading, baking, writing poetry, running, and exploring the fascinating syntaxes of different languages.

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Alia Carponter-Walker, Director of Institutional Equity and Global Partnerships

I have been an educator for over a decade. I choose to work at Hewitt because we are committed to listening to the needs and interests of our students.

One of my favorite parts about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work is that the field is constantly expanding with new ways to understand our identities and to foster belonging within our community. 

I was drawn to DEI work because I love learning about different cultures and perspectives. As an independent school graduate and a person of color, I am deeply aware of the need to create communities of belonging in our schools, and I am excited to be doing that work alongside Hewitt students.  

When I’m not at Hewitt, you can find me dancing (I am classically trained in modern and ballet), baking, spending time with my dog, teaching dance fitness classes, and exploring NYC!

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Alden Baker ’10, Visual Arts Teacher

I have been an educator for eight years. I choose to work at Hewitt because I am an alumna of the school and I loved my time here as a student! 

Something I love about the Hewitt community is the strong relationships teachers and students develop through their work together in classes, advisory, and clubs. 

One of my favorite things about teaching middle and high school students is watching them grow and develop — as people and as artists — from one year to the next, and being able to support that growth along the way. 

I was drawn to teach visual arts because the field offers so many great ways for students to express themselves while engaging in process-oriented learning. My students explore and get to know themselves better through the materials they utilize.

When I’m not teaching, you can find me making ceramics! 

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Terry Kung, Ed.D., Director of College Guidance

I have been an educator for more than 25 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the creative, innovative, and dynamic work we do with our students. I also love the friendships I have formed with Hewitt colleagues, students, and families.  

It's my mission to empower every student in her college application process. College-bound students have worked hard and earned the right to a successful, productive, and joyful college journey.

I was drawn to work in college counseling after serving as assistant director of admissions at my alma mater, Columbia University. Today, I use the enrollment management knowledge I gained in that role to positively impact Hewitt students in their college process. 

When I'm not working, you will find me with my family in Brooklyn; making and enjoying meals; having fun with my bernedoodle, Charlie; and attempting to weave on my loom. 

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Grace Gvodas, Middle School English Teacher

I have been an educator for four years. I choose to work at Hewitt because of the school’s commitment to research on gender and ethical leadership in society.

Something I love about the Hewitt community is that my colleagues and students laugh as hard as they work.

One of my favorite things about teaching middle school is how much students grow during these years! This is a time when they start to really explore what independence means and looks like for them. 

I was drawn to teach English because my own English classes taught me to broaden my perspective and see myself and others in a more expansive way. 

Something you may not know about me is that I love playing soccer and am the assistant coach for Hewitt’s varsity soccer team!

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Nicole Schultheis, Lower School Learning Specialist

I have been an educator for 20 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because this school encourages hands-on learning and creative problem solving; celebrates identity and individuality; and helps students understand how they can make an impact on their community. 

I love that Hewitt girls dream big! They are excited to explore many different subjects to learn what they are passionate about and what they want to investigate further. 

I was drawn to work with lower schoolers because I get to discover how individual students think and learn, what their unique strengths are, and how I can support them in reaching their goals. 

Outside of the classroom, I'm an avid traveler who loves adventure! I also enjoy visiting museums, seeing shows, writing, singing, and making art. 

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Marina Benasuli, Lower School Educational Technologist

I have been an educator for over two decades. I choose to work at Hewitt because, as a woman in a male-dominated field, I believe in teaching girls how to advocate for themselves and reach for the stars. 

I love teaching curious girls how to think critically and problem solve, all while having fun. I love Hewitt’s collaborative nature and the support I feel from faculty and administrators. 

One of my favorite things about teaching lower schoolers is getting to share my own passion for tinkering with Hewitt’s youngest students and inspiring them to explore art, technology, and making. 

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy researching new STEM projects that I would like to integrate into my curriculum. I also love exploring different cultures, cuisines, and art through travel.  

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Rudy Zhao, Physical Education Teacher and Coach

I have been an educator for six years. I choose to work at Hewitt because this community feels like a family. 

One of my favorite things about teaching P.E. is that every day is different. Working with a variety of grades has made me into a versatile educator and shown me how I can inspire students to become strong and confident athletes. 

I especially enjoy teaching younger students how to improve their locomotor skills through games and cooperative activities that involve balancing, jogging, leaping, and hopping. 

I am a lifelong athlete who loves all kinds of sports! Outside of teaching, I coach Hewitt’s varsity volleyball team as well as one of our middle school basketball teams, and direct a non-profit sports organization. 

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Katie Dempsey, Ph.D., Lower School Psychologist

I have been an educator for over a decade and I choose to work at Hewitt because of the people. I wake up each morning excited to see colleagues and students! 

Something I love about the Hewitt community is the way we support the whole child and value social-emotional wellbeing. Starting in lower school, Hewitt students are encouraged to let their voices and personalities shine as they advocate for themselves. 

I was drawn to work with lower school students because I have always felt passionate about helping young people develop into courageous and thoughtful community members. I have wanted to become a psychologist since I was in fifth grade. 

I can often be found exploring the city by foot or hiking in the Hudson River Valley; I love the relaxation and connection that comes from walking and chatting with a friend. 

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Brenda Cruz, Middle School Mathematics Teacher

I have been an educator for over two decades. I choose to work at Hewitt because this school is committed to developing an inclusive community and building perseverance in girls and young women. 

I was drawn to be a mathematics teacher because I want to share my love of the subject with students and show them how math can be challenging and fun at the same time. 

When I’m not teaching, I help advise Hewitt’s award-winning Math Olympiad team. I also love to solve fun math challenges, dance, cook, listen to music, do yoga, and travel. 

Something you may not know about me is that in addition to being a Hewitt teacher, I am also the proud mom of a Hewitt middle schooler!

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David Heller, Upper School History Teacher 

I have been an educator for over 13 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because I get to design unique, transdisciplinary units of study that push students to ask and interrogate big questions about themselves and our world. 

I love teaching high school students because of their enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to embrace challenging work. 

I was drawn to teach history because we are both the creation and creators of history.
When students see that our present moment is a reflection of previous decisions or (in)actions, they feel empowered to make a difference.

Something you may not know about me is that I captained my D3 soccer team during my senior year at Franklin & Marshall College. I love to ride my bike, play tennis, spend time in nature, and read. 

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Liana Costable, Lower School Coordinator

I have been a teacher for five years. I choose to work at Hewitt because the school celebrates student voice and prioritizes joy, creativity, respect, and kindness.

There are so many reasons I love the lower school! One of my favorite things is seeing students use inquiry and play to develop their ability to think critically and problem solve. 

As the lower school coordinator and small groups teacher, I get to support as many students and faculty as possible and contribute to the growth and development of the entire community. 

Something you may not know about me is that before pursuing my career in education, I worked as a professional musical theater actor. This unique experience taught me the value of creativity, collaboration, and effective communication. 

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Irene Lee, Lower School Science Teacher

have been an educator for over 25 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because I am inspired by my students’ passion for learning each and every day.

Something I love about Hewitt is how supportive and compassionate we are toward all members of our community. 

I was drawn to teach lower school science because laughter and joy are woven into everything we do and I get to learn from and alongside my students. 

When I’m not in the science lab, you can find me maintaining an organic pollinating garden that includes both nectar and host plants to serve the needs of all pollinators.

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Erik Nauman, Educational Technology Department Coordinator

I have been an educator for over 30 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because my professional growth is consistently supported here and Hewitt embraces a philosophy of girls' empowerment.

One of my favorite things about teaching middle and upper school students is their enthusiasm for learning how to make things with their hands, with code, and with each other.

I was drawn to educational technology because I love to learn new things. Technology and making are constantly evolving, so they are great outlets for my and my students' curiosity.

Some things you may not know about me are that my work has been featured at the NYC Resistor Interactive Show (2022 and 2023); I co-authored an academic paper in the Journal of Humanistic Mathematics (July 2020); and I help facilitate the Logo Summer Institute for Teachers.

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Outra Nayeck, Middle and Upper School World Languages Teacher

I have been an educator for over 15 years. I started my French teaching journey in Moscow, and I have taught in international schools around the world. 

I choose to work at Hewitt because I am compelled by our mission to educate young women and by the vibrancy of our students and teachers. 

Something I love about Hewitt is the way we encourage students to problem-solve and explore their own lines of inquiry in order to become lifelong learners who can apply their language skills in their lives beyond Hewitt.

I was drawn to teach French because I grew up reading French books. As a native of Mauritius, a Francophone country, I developed a love for French literature and the poetry of authors like Molière and Racine. 

Something you may not know about me is that I have studied Indian classical singing. 

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Ana Singer,  Lower School Teacher

I have been teaching for over seven years. I choose to work at Hewitt because I am
committed to gender equality and have a professional interest in using research to support students’ learning. 

As an educator, I am deeply committed to bringing laughter, play, and joyful representation of diverse identities into my classroom. 

Something I love about Hewitt is the authenticity and warmth of our teachers, students, and families. 

My favorite part about teaching third grade is the students and how they are intrinsically invested in learning about and improving their community. 

Outside of the classroom, you can find me baking all kinds of cakes, practicing meditation, and gardening.

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Jess Levey, Upper School Digital Arts and Design Teacher

I have been teaching for 14 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because I am passionate about girl's leadership. I love that we are a small school with a strong sense of community.

I was drawn to teach art because, like many of my students, I discovered my passion for photography in a high school art class. To discover something creative that you love doing at such a young age is priceless.

When I’m not teaching, I am an exhibiting artist creating video installations and fine art photographs. I love seeing visual art and performances as much as possible and sharing new discoveries with my students. 

Something you may not know about me is that I was recently accepted into the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council’s artist residency on Governors Island. I also had a short film accepted to The New York Short Film Festival, The Queens World Film Festival, and The Paris Short Film Festival. 

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Clara Mulberry, Middle and Upper School World Languages Teacher

I have been an educator for over 20 years. I choose to teach at The Hewitt School because it is a close knit community where the students and teachers feel like a family. 

Some of the things I love about Hewitt are the support I feel from my colleagues and supervisors and how curious the students are to learn, grow, and explore new ideas. 

I was drawn to teach Spanish because I love languages and it is my first language. 

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy speaking French and traveling and enriching my awareness of the wider world. I also enjoy yoga, which keeps me grounded and grateful for all the wonderful things in life.

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Benjamin Dickman, Ph.D., Upper School Mathematics Teacher

I have been teaching for 15 years. I choose to work at Hewitt because it is a place where I can collaborate with coworkers and students, explore and implement new ways of teaching, and think about how my work as an educator connects to the wider worlds of mathematics education. 

One of my favorite things about teaching is supporting students as they explore their own mathematical thinking and sense-making. Seeing the evolution of a student’s mathematical reasoning is an impressive and poignant experience.

When I’m not teaching, you can find me learning languages (including Spanish and Chinese), reading and writing about mathematics education, and playing my original word game, FiddleBrix! 

Something you may not know about me is that I have studied mathematics education in China as a Fulbright Fellow and in the Philippines through a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Short-term Teaching. 

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Lonnie Gibbs, Upper School Mathematics Teacher

I have been an educator for over a decade. I choose to work at Hewitt because I believe in our school’s mission to inspire girls and young women to become game changers and ethical leaders. 

Something I love about the Hewitt community is how the students, families, faculty, and staff show their school spirit by attending events and games. 

One of my favorite things about teaching upper school, and ninth grade in particular, is helping students get acclimated to the rigors of being in high school. 

I was drawn to teach mathematics because I've always loved math and I want to change the way students learn and think about the subject. 

Something you may not know about me is that I was a two sport athlete in college and took a West African dance class to improve my balance and coordination. When I’m not teaching math, you can find me coaching Hewitt’s varsity squash team! 

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Lael Jacobs, Middle School English Teacher

I have been an educator for more than 20 years. Before coming to Hewitt I taught at Spence and Chapin, and I've never grown tired of being at a school devoted to the education of girls and young women. 

Something I love about the Hewitt community is how warm and supportive it is. Teachers here really help one another and collaborate to develop curriculum and activities for the students.

I teach English because it was a subject I loved as a student. Once I started teaching middle school English, I was hooked on the fun and energy of that age group. The students come to school brimming with ideas about the reading and excited to share their thoughts.

Something you may not know about me is that I used to sing in choirs and do theater in graduate school. I bring my love of theater to teaching Shakespeare to the eighth graders at Hewitt!