Hewitt News

We are delighted to announce that Assistant Head of Upper School Christopher Riddick will be Hewitt’s next director of admissions, effective July 1, 2025. A deeply respected member of our school community, Chris has facilitated many successful admissions events for current and applicant families during his seven year tenure at Hewitt. A seasoned educator, gifted public speaker, and superb relationship builder, Chris is a champion of who we are and what we stand for at The Hewitt School, and we are thrilled that this new leadership role will take full advantage of his unique skills and talents for the benefit of our school. 

As so many people in our community already know, Chris has the true gift of the art of storytelling. He is exceptionally dynamic when telling stories about the transformative power of a Hewitt education. This is due in large part to how deeply he immerses himself in every aspect of our school. On any given day, you can find Chris all over our campus and neighborhood – building rapport with students, walking with parents in the park, and connecting in our lobby with applicants and their families. Beyond the deeply meaningful relationships he has developed with Hewitt students, faculty, alumnae, and families, Chris also understands the business of independent schools. He conveys his belief in Hewitt’s mission, and powerfully models the importance of men dedicated to centering and amplifying the voices of girls and young women. Over the last seven years, we have seen him do this every single day. 

As assistant head of upper school and upper school dean of students at Hewitt, Chris has played an integral role in curriculum development, faculty mentorship, and student support strategies to foster an inclusive and high-achieving school culture. At Hewitt, he has taught middle and upper school science as well as the upper school elective “Law and the American Legal System.” 

Currently, Chris serves as an adjunct professor at his alma mater, Pace University, and as a member of Pace’s Teacher Education Advisory Board, where he prepares future educators through graduate-level coursework, advises on the direction of the School of Education, and helps review data to inform program improvements. Chris earned a B.S. in biology from Drexel University, an M.S. for teachers with a speciality in adolescent education from Pace University, and a J.D. from Delaware Law School.
 
When Chris isn’t working at Hewitt, you can find him coaching his son’s soccer team in Riverdale, running through Central Park, or cheering on the Hawks badminton team at their matches.

Head of School Dr. Tara Christie Kinsey and Incoming Head of School Dr. Jennifer Zaccara are thrilled to welcome Chris to this important leadership role. 

Chris shares, “I am honored to take on this new role, where I look forward to catalyzing our community to spread the good word about the extraordinary power of a Hewitt education. Since joining Hewitt seven years ago, it has been very gratifying to build meaningful relationships with students and their families, and to have the opportunity to amplify the voices of our amazing students. I can’t wait for more people to know about the incredible work we do at this school.”

In the coming weeks, Dr. Kinsey looks forward to working with the admissions team, Dr. Zaccara, and Chris to ensure a smooth and seamless transition process.

Please join us in congratulating Chris Riddick as the next director of admissions!