Faculty & Staff

Why Blue Ridge?
Character Education
Virtual Tours
Our History
Faculty & Staff
Board of Trustees
Careers

Why Blue Ridge?
Character Education
Virtual Tours
Our History
Faculty & Staff
Board of Trustees
Careers

A Faculty Focused on Boys

One of the things that sets Blue Ridge School apart is the unique devotion of our faculty and staff.

As scholars, advisors, and experts in how boys learn best, we forget that we are here to support a boy’s journey. In fact, more than 80% of our faculty live on campus so they can develop relationships with boys that bring learning to life, provide a home-away-from-home environment, be more involved in the overall experience, and serve as advisors, coaches, and role models to young men.

Leadership Team

William A. “Trip” Darrin III, P’28

Head of School, Varsity Golf Head Coach

William A. “Trip” Darrin III, P’28

Head of School

Trip Darrin began his career in Akita, Japan where he worked as an English Teacher, and later as a Policy Analyst for the Japanese Department of Science, Technology and Education. He returned to the USA in 2001 and became the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at South Kent School. Mr. Darrin further enhanced his international experience working from 2004-2006 as the Director of Administration at the Luanda International School in Luanda, Angola, before joining the staff of the Blue Ridge School in 2006. Mr. Darrin has held various positions at BRS and is currently the Head of School. He has delivered multiple presentations at conferences for TABS, NAIS, SSATB, SBSA and has completed graduate coursework in both Japanese Studies at Monash University in Australia, and in Educational Leadership at the College of New Jersey. He a Board Member and on the Executive Committees of the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association. Mr. Darrin is a former Board Member of the Small Boarding School Association and he is skilled in the Japanese language.

The George Washington University, BA
University of Virginia, MBA

Phone:434-992-0599
Email:tdarrin@blueridgeschool.com

D. Franklin Daniels, Jr, P’23

Associate Head of School for External Affairs

D. Franklin Daniels, Jr, P’23

Associate Head of School for External Affairs

Franklin is currently in his 15th year at Blue Ridge and his 35th in non-profit leadership. Among his civic and personal interests, he is a current member and a Past-President of the Blue Ridge Mountains Rotary Club of Charlottesville, Virginia and a Past Chair of the Board of Trustees of Grymes Memorial School in Orange, Virginia. Franklin is also a grateful alumni parent, as his step-son Smith Hopper '23 is a BRS graduate and was a four-year boy. He and his wife Kate, an executive in the elder-care industry, live on campus with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Washington & Lee University, BA
Vanderbilt University, MEd

Phone:434-992-0503
Email:fdaniels@blueridgeschool.com

Amber Michelle Wilkins

Assistant Head of School for Instructional Programs, Director of College Counseling

Amber Michelle Wilkins

Assistant Head of School for Instructional Programs, Director of College Counseling

Amber Wilkins currently serves as Assistant Head of School for Instructional Programs at Blue Ridge. Her experience is in college counseling, college admissions and residence life. She came to Blue Ridge School from Mary Baldwin University where she was most recently the Interim Director of Admissions and Early College Coordinator. Prior to Mary Baldwin, she was the Registrar and Assistant to the College Counselor at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy and the Residence Life Director and Interim College Counselor and Registrar at Stuart Hall School. She has served as a member of the Virginia Association of Collegiate Registrar’s and Admissions Offices committee as well as attended numerous college counseling and admissions regional and national conferences.

Phone:434-992-0558
Email:awilkins@blueridgeschool.com

Hans Hermanson, Alumni ‘97

Assistant Head of School for Student Affairs, Dean of Character Education, Religious Studies Teacher, Outdoorsmen Coach

Hans Hermanson, Alumni ‘97

Assistant Head of School for Student Affairs, Dean of Character Education, Religious Studies Teacher, Outdoorsmen Coach

Mr. Hermanson served in the U.S. Army as a Middle Eastern intelligence specialist with the Special Forces. After his military service and completing his college degree, he moved to Scotland, where he completed his Masters of Theology in Religious Studies at the University of Edinburgh. Mr. Hermanson specializes in the major world religions and is particularly interested in the various paths we have available to us to live in harmony with our surroundings and live our individual Vision. He also has a passion for martial arts. Mr. Hermanson resides on campus with his wife Chrisantha, daughter Katia and son Aksel.

Davis & Elkins College, BA
University of Edinburgh, GradD
University of Edinburgh, MTh

Phone:434-992-0521
Email:hhermanson@blueridgeschool.com

Tony Brown

Dean of Students, Director of Outdoor Program, Mountain Biking Head Coach

Tony Brown

Dean of Students, Director of Outdoor Program, Mountain Biking Head Coach

Mr. Brown began his career with the New Dominion School before joining the staff of BRS to develop the School’s Outdoor Program in 1998. He has presented at conferences of the Association of Experiental Education Network in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and for the Independent School Experiential Education Network in New Mexico and New Jersey. He received a Golden Apple Teacher’s Award in 2010. Mr. Brown is a certified Wilderness First Aid Instructor and is certified by the American Red Cross in First Aid and CPR. Mr. Brown and his wife Shannon live on campus with their two daughters, Riley and Avery, and their son, Patrick.

Appalachian State University, BS
George Williams College at Aurora University, MS

Phone:434-992-0541
Email:tbrown@blueridgeschool.com

Jamie Bourland

Director of Facilities, Science Teacher, Assistant Director of Drama

Jamie Bourland

Director of Facilities, Science Teacher, Assistant Director of Drama

Mr. Bourland has worked at BRS for over 30 years. He is now the Director of Facilities and teaches one class in Astronomy. Mr. Bourland is often found outside shouting for his dog and working on classic cars and Mini-trucks.

University of Virginia, BA
University of Virginia, MEd

Phone:434-992-0525
Email: jamie@blueridgeschool.com

Michele Flint, P’28

Director of Finance and Business Operations

Michele Flint, P’28

Director of Finance and Business Operations

Mrs. Flint has been employed at Blue Ridge since 2000. She worked in the Business Office as Accounts Payable Clerk and then as the Accounting Manager for 10 years. In 2010, she became the Director of Human Resources. She is certified PHR & SHRM-CP and holds a Bachelor’s of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) in Business from the University of Virginia. Mrs. Flint began overseeing our business office in 2022 and now serves as the Director of Finance and Business Operations. She serves on the school’s Business Operations Team, the Leader Team and the Board of Trustees Finance Committee. She resides on-campus with her two sons.

University of Virginia

Phone:434-992-0513
Email:mflint@blueridgeschool.com

Eric Knutson

Director of Marketing and Enrollment Communications

Eric Knutson

Director of Marketing and Enrollment Communications

Eric discovered marketing during his time in the music industry, and is excited to bring the modern tactics of digital marketing to support the mission of Blue Ridge School. He is an avid musician and photographer, and lives with his 2 children in nearby Crozet, Virginia.

University of Denver, BM

Phone:434-992-0502
Email:eknutson@blueridgeschool.com

Parker Kirwan

Athletic Director, Varsity Basketball Assistant Coach, English & Sports Broadcasting Teacher

Parker Kirwan

Athletic Director, Varsity Basketball Assistant Coach, English & Sports Broadcasting Teacher

Mr. Kirwan is the Athletic Director and an assistant coach for the varsity basketball program. In addition to his athletics duties, Mr. Kirwan teaches 11th grade literature and an elective in sports broadcasting and supervises the Baron Sports Network (BSN), a program he founded in 2017. BSN is a student-run media program that covers sports at Blue Ridge School. Before Blue Ridge, he attended VCU and received his Masters of Education in Sport Leadership. While in school at VCU, he served as the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for three years.

Virginia Commonwealth University, BS
Virginia Commonwealth University, MEd
The George Washington University, BA

Phone:434-992-0524
Email:pkirwan@blueridgeschool.com

Wayne Peterson, P’27

Director of Technology, Robotics Team Head Coach

Wayne Peterson, P’27

Director of Technology, Robotics Team Head Coach

Mr. Peterson is the Director of Technology at Blue Ridge School and also teaches Computer Science. Previously he taught overseas and in the Northwest. Mr. Peterson enjoys being with his family. He lives on campus with his wife and two children.

Central Washington University, BA/BS
Central Washington University, MA
The George Washington University, BA

Phone:434-992-0505
Email:wpeterson@blueridgeschool.com

Cory Woods, P’28

Director of Natural Resources, Assistant Director of Outdoor Education, Outdoor Education Teacher

Cory Woods, P’28

Director of Natural Resources, Assistant Director of Outdoor Education, Outdoor Education Teacher

Mr. Woods teaches Environmental Studies, assists in school-wide sustainability projects, coaches the afternoon Outdoor Program, and facilitates various outdoor education opportunities throughout the year. Mr. Woods enjoys whitewater canoeing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. He lives on campus with his wife Carrie, who coaches a local girls basketball team, and their two sons, Edmund and Parker.

Western State College of Colorado, BA
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, MA

Phone:434-992-0508
Email:cwoods@blueridgeschool.com

Jack Warren

Dean of Academics, Anatomy & Physiology, Biology Teacher, Indoor Soccer Head Coach

Jack Warren

Dean of Academics, Anatomy & Physiology, Biology Teacher, Indoor Soccer Head Coach

Jack Warren has been an employee at Blue Ridge since 2017. He started at BRS as a Biology and Anatomy & Physiology teacher and a soccer coach, and now serves as the Dean of Academics. Jack earned his undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology from Colgate University and then finished his M.Ed in Independent School Leadership from Vanderbilt in 2020 while working at Blue Ridge. In 2020, he received the Golden Apple Award for excellence in teaching. In his free time, he enjoys trail running, hiking, reading, and rooting for his favorite Boston sports teams.

Colgate University, BA
Vanderbilt University, MEd

Phone:434-992-0550
Email:jwarren@blueridgeschool.com

Faculty

Brian Blaine

English Teacher, Varsity Soccer Assistant Coach, Strength & Conditioning Head Coach

Brian Blaine

English Teacher, Varsity Soccer Assistant Coach, Strength & Conditioning Head Coach

Mr. Blaine is an English teacher at Blue Ridge School. Prior to joining BRS, he was a Teach for American ELA Instructor in Memphis, Tennesse. He has been a MED-Life volunteer in Ecuador and done academic research in Israel and South Africa.

University of Virginia, BA

Phone:434-992-0514
Email:bblaine@blueridgeschool.com

Emily Boardman

ELL Director and Teacher, Learning Specialist

Emily Boardman

ELL Director and Teacher, Learning Specialist

Emily is a proud Pittsburgh native and Penn State alum who’s spent the last 20 years soaking up the sunshine, mountains, and history of Virginia. She’s taught in England and across diverse Virginia communities, both in classrooms and online, and is Orton-Gillingham trained with a heart for helping all students learn.

Married and a mother to three lively boys, Emily is especially passionate about teaching boys—embracing their energy, curiosity, and unique ways of learning. When she’s not teaching, she’s likely reading, hiking, or exploring small towns with her family.

Penn State

Phone:434-992-0589
Email:eboardman@blueridgeschool.com

Forrest Burtnette

Music

Forrest Burtnette

Music

Phone:434-992-0594
Email:fburtnette@blueridgeschool.com

Kathleen Blandford, P'24, P'26

Learning Center Specialist, Outdoor Program Assistant Coach, Hall Parent

Kathleen Blandford, P'24, P'26

Learning Center Specialist, Outdoor Program Assistant Coach, Hall Parent

With 35 years of experience across public and private education—and as the former owner of a successful business serving students and families nationwide, including Alaska - Kat brings a unique perspective to supporting individuals in grades PreK–12 with diverse needs, including autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and emotional or behavioral challenges.

Kat earned both her B.S. and M.S. in Special Education from Florida State University in 1991. A four-year full scholarship swimmer for the Seminoles, she was named an NCAA All-American and Academic All-American multiple times and qualified for the 1984 and 1988 Olympic Trials. Her experience as an elite student-athlete informs her deep understanding of the discipline, balance, and mindset required for success and well-being.

Kat values her faith and family, including her husband Craig and their two sons, Erik (’24) and Mark (’26). She is passionate about helping others grow spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Kat enjoys supporting individuals with spiritual healing and spending time outdoors. Kat is grateful for the opportunity to serve students and families at Blue Ridge School.

Florida State University, B.S., M.S.

Phone:434-992-0578
Email:kblandford@blueridgeschool.com

Matthew Bennett

History Teacher, Varsity Soccer Head Coach, Indoor Soccer Head Coach

Matthew Bennett

History Teacher, Varsity Soccer Head Coach, Indoor Soccer Head Coach

Mr. Bennett began his career as a teacher and director of admissions at the Miller School. In addition to teaching classes in Western Civilization and World History at Blue Ridge School, Mr. Bennett is the school’s head coach of the Varsity Soccer team and the Indoor Soccer team. He and his wife, Terry, and their two children, Sam and Abby, reside on campus.

The Citadel, BS
The Citadel, MA

Phone:434-992-0507
Email:mbennett@blueridgeschool.com

Aaron Cortez

Spanish Teacher, Varsity Soccer Assistant Coach

Aaron Cortez

Spanish Teacher

Originally from Peru, Aaron Cortez moved to the U.S. at age 15 and completed high school in Tucson, Arizona. After college he returned to Peru, where he gained valuable experience in education - serving as a teacher, academic coordinator, and later as an academic advisor for Education USA, a U.S. Department of State network that promotes U.S. higher education to students worldwide.

Aaron is fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, and he is passionate about fostering cross-cultural connections through language and education.

University of Arizona, BA

Phone:434-992-0520
Email:acortez@blueridgeschool.com

Ali Curcio

Science Teacher, Director of Social Activities

Ali Curcio

Science Teacher, Director of Social Activities

Ali is a graduate of the Mary Baldwin University Program for the Exceptionally Gifted and just completed her Masters Degree at the University of Lynchburg. She is passionate about education, and her teaching portfolio is already vast. Ali is a former lab scientist who changed career paths after reflecting on her “why.” Her goal is to influence the young scientist and help them find their path to success through scientific inquiry and unconditional support. She is a classically trained vocalist and enjoys music, theater, cooking, baking, card games, and her two adorable cats.

Phone:434-992-0538
Email:acurcio@blueridgeschool.com

Clay Crook

English Department Chair, Outdoors, Squire Basketball

Clay Crook

English Department Chair, Outdoors, Squire Basketball

Clay Crook joined Blue Ridge in 2024, serving as the Chair of the English Department and the dorm parent for Middle North in Walsh Hall. Clay earned a BA in English from Roanoke College and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from the American College of Education. Beyond academics, he coaches Squire Basketball and Outdoor Sports. Outside of school, Clay is an avid reader and investor with a passion for cinema and screenwriting. He enjoys traveling throughout East Asia with his wife, Lynn, and spending quality time with their four-year-old daughter, Mia.

Roanoke College, BA
American College of Education, M.Ed.

Phone:434-992-0546
Email:ccrook@blueridgeschool.com

Liam Coyle

9th and 12th grade English teacher, dorm parent, Strength and Conditioning, JV Lacrosse

Liam Coyle

9th and 12th grade English teacher, dorm parent, Strength and Conditioning, JV Lacrosse

Liam grew up in Trumbull, Connecticut, attending the all-boys Fairfield College Preparatory School, before matriculating at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was a two-sport NCAA athlete in lacrosse and football. He holds a master’s degree in Urban Education, and has completed coursework in Divinity Studies, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Liam recently spent a year in the north of Ireland playing semi-professional Gaelic football. Before Ireland, Liam spent four years teaching in Memphis public schools as a part of the Memphis Teacher Residency program, whose mission is, “Christian love expressed through equal education.” In his free time, Liam enjoys golf, the outdoors, and time with family and friends.

Phone:434-992-0575
Email:lcoyle@blueridgeschool.com

Maman Cissé

Director of the Fishburne Learning Center, Community Service Program Lead

Maman Cissé

Director of the Fishburne Learning Center, Community Service Program Lead

For more than a decade, Maman has served as a passionate and results-oriented educator, working with students in grades 5 through 12 in Brooklyn, New York. Her professional journey has been dedicated to supporting diverse learners and fostering academic growth through individualized instruction and collaborative practices.

As a graduate of a single-gender educational environment herself, she deeply values the impact such spaces can have and is proud to contribute to a school that emphasizes the holistic development of young men. In her role at Blue Ridge, she looks forward to partnering with the FLC team and colleagues across campus to ensure every student has the tools and support they need to thrive.

New Jersey City University, BS
Relay Graduate School of Education, M.A.T.

Phone:434-992-0526
Email:mcisse@blueridgeschool.com

Rick Cameron

Math Teacher, Varsity Football Assistant Coach, Varsity Wrestling Coach

Rick Cameron

Math Teacher, Varsity Football Assistant Coach, Varsity Wrestling Coach

Mr. Cameron is a math teacher at Blue Ridge School. He has an extensive background in secondary education, including teaching and coaching at schools in Oklahoma, South Carolina, Georgia, and Maine. He was Head of School at The Fayetteville Academy in North Carolina and Head of Upper School at Augusta Preparatory School in Georgia. Mr. Cameron has coached a wide variety of sports and has been named regional Coach of the Year for wrestling and state Coach of the Year for tennis.

Northeastern University, BS
The Citadel, MA

Phone:434-985-2811
Email:rcameron@blueridgeschool.com

Simon Curry

Social Studies Teacher, Assistant Football Coach, Assistant Baseball Coach

Simon Curry

Social Studies Teacher, Assistant Football Coach, Assistant Baseball Coach

Simon hails from Havertown, PA, and is a graduate of the University of Richmond where he studied history and political science. He has served as a camp site leader at the Haverford Township Parksand Recreation Center for 10 years years and loves all things sports. His favorite sports include baseball, football, basketball, skiing, running, and pickleball. He is excited to continue growing as a strong educator and relational teacher here at BRS.

Phone:434-992-0597
Email:scurry@blueridgeschool.com

Alexander Deitrich

History Teacher, Hall Parent, JV Soccer Assistant Coach, JV Basketball Assistant Coach

Alexander Deitrich

History Teacher, Hall Parent, JV Soccer Assistant Coach, JV Basketball Assistant Coach

Alexander Deitrich is a history teacher and hall parent at Blue Ridge School. Previously he taught at The Phelps School where he was also a dorm parent and esports coach. He enjoys current events, playing guitar, hiking, esports & gaming, and board games.

Syracuse University, BA

Phone:434-992-0588
Email:adeitrich@blueridgeschool.com

Dr. Dedra Demaree

Science Department Chair, Physics Teacher, Community Service Coach, Drama Coach

Dr. Dedra Demaree

Science Department Chair, Physics Teacher, Community Service Coach, Drama Coach

Dr. Demaree is a physics teacher and department chair at the Blue Ridge School. After living and teaching in South Korea for a few years, Dedra returned to the states and joined us in 2022. After completing her Ph.D. in 2006, Dedra worked in higher education for many years in physics education research, teacher development, and leadership roles. She enjoys exploring new teaching methods and techniques to help to better reach her students.

The Ohio State University, PhD
Rutgers University, MS
University of Maryland Baltimore County, BS

Phone:434-992-0540
Email:ddemaree@blueridgeschool.com

Danielle Gardiner

Assistant Director of the FLC

Danielle Gardiner

Assistant Director of the FLC

Danielle brings deep expertise in supporting neurodivergent learners to the Fishburne Learning Center. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Virginia. Prior to joining the Blue Ridge community, Danielle taught middle school mathematics in Albemarle County, where she focused on empowering students with diverse learning needs. She is passionate about equipping students with strong self-advocacy skills and independent work habits that support long-term academic success. Danielle lives on campus with her two cats and enjoys traveling, having explored 12 countries and counting.

Phone:434-992-0576
Email:dgardiner@blueridgeschool.com

Dr. Chrisantha Hermanson

Director of Library and Digital Literacy, 9th Grade History Teacher

Dr. Chrisantha Hermanson

Director of Library and Digital Literacy, 9th Grade History Teacher

With over 13 years of experience at BRS, Chrisantha has witnessed firsthand the profound, transformative impact this community has on its students. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity be part of the dynamic and supportive community of students and faculty that make BRS such a meaningful place of growth. In her role, Chrisantha will focus on fostering curiosity, learning, and research by guiding students through their academic exploration. She is passionate about equipping students with one of the most valuable tools for lifelong learning; the ability to ask thoughtful, complex questions and seek meaningful, well-researched answers to those questions. This position allows her to collaborate more broadly across the study body and support faculty. She is excited to support and inspire learners as they develop and hone their research and critical thinking skills.

Phone:434-992-0554
Email:chermanson@blueridgeschool.com

Georgia Holley

Learning Center Specialist, Assistant Director of Drama, Yearbook

Georgia Holley

Learning Center Specialist, Assistant Director of Drama, Yearbook

Georgia serves as a learning specialist in the Fishburne Learning Center, where she applies her expertise in special education and reading intervention. Before joining Blue Ridge, Georgia worked with students with autism in grades K-12 and developed effective reading intervention programs. As a passionate advocate for literacy, she strives to share her love of stories with students. Outside of the classroom, Georgia enjoys spending time with her family and two terriers.

University of Virginia, BS.Ed, MEd

Phone:434-992-0547
Email:gholley@blueridgeschool.com

Nuren Iftekhar

Chemistry Teacher, JV Soccer Assistant Coach, Varsity Tennis Assistant Coach

Nuren Iftekhar

Chemistry Teacher, JV Soccer Assistant Coach, Varsity Tennis Assistant Coach

Mr. Iftekhar is a chemistry teacher and hall parent at Blue Ridge School. He has a master’s degree in chemistry from Virginia Tech and taught at the college level for three years prior to coming to BRS. In addition to science, he enjoys writing and has published in The Daily Star, as well as a book of original fiction.

Virginia Tech, MS
University of Dhaka, BS

Phone:434-992-0553
Email:niftekhar@blueridgeschool.com

Brian MacDonald

Math Department Chair, Drama Director

Brian MacDonald

Math Department Chair, Drama Director

Holding a B.F.A. and M.F.A. in theatre, as well as an M.S. in math education, Brian is excited to have the opportunity to share his two favorite passions with his students. On the mathematical side, he has worked as a teacher and tutor for various organizations, including tutoring centers, a community college, and high school, covering subjects ranging from pre-algebra to calculus. In theatre, Brian has worked professionally as an actor, producer, and director in D.C. and New York with experience ranging from schools, to local theatres, and to Broadway. When not nerding out about theatre or math (or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), you might find Brian listening to David Bowie, chatting with his beta fish, playing video games, playing an instrument, or kayaking on a lake somewhere.

Phone:434-992-0592
Email:bmacdonald@blueridgeschool.com

Cameron MacDonald

School Counselor

Cameron MacDonald

School Counselor

Cameron brings a wealth of experience working with students from diverse backgrounds to develop career, academic, and social-emotional goals. He has experience creating and delivering school-wide curricula to support the well-being and growth and emotional support of students. Prior to BRS Cameron worked at Oakton High School, Stuarts Draft High School, and George Stevens Academy where he was a teacher and dorm parent and coach, and the Charlottesville Waldorf School where he was a Physical Education Teacher and Athletic Director. Cameron has extensive experience coaching tennis, soccer, and basketball and has a love and passion for the outdoors.

Vermont State University
University of Virginia

Phone:434-992-0532
Email:cmacdonald@blueridgeschool.com

Haley McLean

Math Teacher, JV Assistant Soccer Coach, Outdoors Program Assistant

Haley McLean

Math Teacher, JV Assistant Soccer Coach, Outdoors Program Assistant

Haley McLean is a native to Central Virginia, growing up in Madison County. After college, Haley volunteered as a mathematics tutor in South Africa through a program called World Teach to pursue interests in global education and its impact on revitalizing communities. Over the past eight years, Haley has taught math in high schools in Fauquier and Albemarle counties and spent one year at a Montessori farm school teaching math and horseback riding. She was drawn to the Blue Ridge School for its emphasis on character education and community, as well as its outdoors program, and is excited to contribute to the school’s mission.

Emory & Henry College BM, MEd

Phone:434-992-0569
Email:hmclean@blueridgeschool.com

Rich Meredith

Residence Life Director, Economics, Entrepreneurship

Rich Meredith

Residence Life Director, Economics, Entrepreneurship

Prior to Blue Ridge, Mr. Meredith taught and coached at Norfolk Collegiate School in Hampton Roads, Virginia. He began his career with Teach For America in the Mississippi Delta. Mr. Meredith served as a consultant for the federal government and as an intelligence officer. He has worked in over thirty countries and is passionate about teaching, coaching, and mentoring young men with diverse life experiences. He enjoys yoga, cooking, and camping. Mr. Meredith resides on campus with his wife Hunter, their children Teddy and Ellie, and their golden retriever Bruce.

Virginia Military Institute
Georgetown University

Phone:434-992-0580
Email:rmeredith@blueridgeschool.com

Dr. Matthew Richey

Spanish Department Chair, Indoor Soccer Coach, JV Soccer Coach

Dr. Matthew Richey

Spanish Department Chair, Indoor Soccer Coach, JV Soccer Coach

Dr. Matthew Richey is a Spanish teacher and soccer coach at Blue Ridge School. He has lived in the Blue Ridge Mountains for most of his life. Before becoming a teacher, Dr. Richey cooked professionally for many years in the restaurant industry.

Matthew and his fiancee María currently live on campus with their rescue dog, Mona. They enjoy gardening, literature, and visiting local antique stores.

PhD in Spanish, University of Virginia (2023)
MA in Spanish, Virginia Tech (2015)
BA in Spanish, Virginia Tech (2007)
BS in Marketing, Virginia Tech (2007)

Phone:434-992-0556
Email:mrichey@blueridgeschool.com

Jesse Schmeizer

10th Grade English, Cross Country, Track

Jesse Schmeizer

10th Grade English, Cross Country, Track

Mr. Schmeizer is an avid runner and reader. He competed as a Division I athlete in cross country and track while at Lafayette. He enjoys various fictional works and continues to read and study philosophy in his free time, making him a culprit of turning a simple conversation into a metaphysical quandary.

When he is not reading or running, Mr. Schmeizer enjoys well-brewed coffees at quiet cafes or Stanley Kubrick movies.

Lafayette College
Central European University

Phone:434-992-0515
Email:jschmeizer@blueridgeschool.com

Seth Tripp

Social Studies Department Head, Head Baseball Coach

Seth Tripp

Social Studies Department Head, Head Baseball Coach

Seth Tripp is a dedicated educator and coach with over a decade of experience in both public and private school settings. A proud native of St. Louis, Missouri, he currently teaches AP United States History and Government.

In addition to his teaching career, Seth has been coaching baseball since 2014. Outside of his professional life, Seth enjoys spending time with his wife, Rachael, who is also an educator, and their three sons. He is an avid hiker and a passionate supporter of all St. Louis sports teams, and he is committed to immersing himself in local culture.

Indiana University BS
Grand Canyon University MA

Phone:434-992-0566
Email:stripp@blueridgeschool.com

Scott Tumperi

AP calculus, Precalculus

Scott Tumperi

AP calculus, Precalculus

Scott Tumperi teaches AP Calculus and Precalculus, and he coaches JV Soccer, JV Basketball, and JV Tennis. He is entering his 25th year teaching math and physics at independent schools. His hobbies include photography and duplicate bridge, and he holds Silver Life Master rank in the American Contract Bridge League. He earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering, his MS in Aerospace Engineering, and his MEd in Math Education all from UVA.

University of Virginia BS, MS, MEd

Phone:434-992-0561
Email:stumperi@blueridgeschool.com

David Welty

Director of Visual Arts, Mountain Biking Assistant Coach, Chair of the Elective Department

David Welty

Director of Visual Arts, Mountain Biking Assistant Coach, Chair of the Elective Department

After a short experience in the public schools, Mr. Welty has spent the majority of his career, now well into his second decade, teaching at Blue Ridge. His classes explore all levels aspects of the visual arts including digital, ceramics, and more traditional media with a specified focus on building creative confidence. He also is a member of the Outdoor Program staff and enjoys coaching mountain biking. He live on campus with his wife and two dogs right next to the mountain bike trails and cabin lake.

Savannah College of Art and Design, BFA

Phone:434-992-0557
Email:dwelty@blueridgeschool.com

Administration Team

Johnny Atkinson, Alumni '13

Assistant Special Programs Director, Basketball, MMA

Johnny Atkinson, Alumni '13

Special Programs Ambassador, Assistant Basketball Coach, MMA Coach, Strength and Conditioning Professional

Johnny is very proud to be a member of Blue Ridge School’s class of 2013. He went on to study at Appalachian State University, earning both his Bachelor’s and Master’s in Exercise Science with a concentration in Strength & Conditioning, while serving as a manager & video coordinator for Appalachian State University’s Men’s Basketball team. Johnny is registered as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist by the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA - CSCS.) He serves on the school’s injury prevention committee (IPC) to ensure the internal athletic programs are safe and effective for our students.

Appalachian State, BA, MA

Phone:434-992-0537
Email:jatkinson@blueridgeschool.com

Whitney Allen

Director of Parent Relations

Whitney Allen

Director of Parent Relations

Whitney Allen joined Blue Ridge School in 2025 and serves as Director of Parent Relations and Communications. A Virginia native from Rockbridge County and a boarding school alumna, she graduated from Chatham Hall in 2003 and was a member of the BRAC Field Hockey Championship team coached by VISAA Hall of Fame member Catherine LaDuke. She earned a B.A. in Environmental Studies and Political Science from Randolph-Macon College, where she was active in communications and events. She has worked in government, schools, and nonprofits, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlottesville and the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia. She lives in Louisa County with her daughters and enjoys reading, family time in Corolla, and cooking gluten-free feasts.

Phone:434-992-0574
Email:wallen@blueridgeschool.com

Raeshad Herriott

Assistant Athletic Director, Offensive Coordinator, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach

Raeshad Herriott

Assistant Athletic Director, Offensive Coordinator, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach

Email:rherriott@blueridgeschool.com

Tyler Houston

Director of the Baron Fund

Tyler Houston

Director of the Baron Fund

Phone:434-992-0517
Email:thouston@blueridgeschool.com

JC Ignaszewski

Senior Director of Institutional Advancement

JC Ignaszewski

Senior Director of Institutional Advancement

JC Ignaszewski is a seasoned fundraiser and serves as senior director of institutional advancement at Blue Ridge School. In addition to his success at Blue Ridge, he has worked in fundraising at the University of Virginia, supporting both the College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences and the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service. At Weldon Cooper he established the Senator John W. Warner Scholarship Endowment Fund for Public Service and created the Energy Transition Initiative Fund, raising support which focused on sustainability, renewables, and clean energy public impact research. Ignaszewski lives in Madison, Virginia, with his wife Katie and daughter Hailey. His nephew Andrew Link is a 2016 graduate of Blue Ridge and a winner of the St. George Award, the School’s highest honor.

San Jose State University, BA

Phone:434-992-0593
Email:jignaszewski@blueridgeschool.com

Angela Jackson-Mapetla

Director of Admissions, International Student Coordinator

Angela Jackson-Mapetla

Director of Admissions, International Student Coordinator

Angela Jackson-Mapetla is the Director of Admissions and International Student Coordinator at Blue Ridge School. She brings a global perspective shaped by nine years in East Africa, where she served as a missionary with DOORS Ministries and at Heritage International School in Uganda. She also worked in Kenya as Prep School Admissions/Registrar at St Andrew’s, Turi. Angela’s career in education spans from elementary to university-level students. Before her international work, she served in higher education as Associate Director of Residential and Commuter Programs and as an Academic Advisor at Longwood University.

Beyond her professional roles, Angela enjoys singing, fashion design and styling, and is an active member of Toastmasters International. She is passionate about building relationships, fostering diverse learning environments, and creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact.

Radford University, BA
East Tennessee State University, MBA

Phone:434-992-0531
Email:ajacksonmapetla@blueridgeschool.com

Kristie Jamrozek, P'19

External Affairs Marketing Manager

Kristie Jamrozek, P'19

External Affairs Marketing Manager

Phone:434-992-0563
Email:kjamrozek@blueridgeschool.com

Mike Jamrozek

Director of Campus Security, Student Health Supervisor, and Residence Life Duty Coordinator, MMA Head Coach

Mike Jamrozek

Director of Campus Security, Student Health Supervisor, and Residence Life Duty Coordinator, MMA Head Coach

Mr. Jamrozek, also known as “Mr. J” to the boys, oversees all aspects related to the safety and security of the Blue Ridge School campus. After having served as a combat engineer in the Marine Corps from 2003-2007, Mr. J worked as an armed security officer prior to joining the school in 2009. Mr. Jamrozek enjoys teaching and participating in Mixed Martial Arts on campus and in the local community. He lives on campus with his wife Kristie, and their three kids.

Piedmont Virginia Community College, AAS

Phone:434-992-0591
Email: mjamrozek@blueridgeschool.com

Eric Knutson

Director of Marketing and Enrollment Communications

Eric Knutson

Director of Marketing and Enrollment Communications

Phone:434-992-0502
Email:eknutson@blueridgeschool.com

Parker Kirwan

Athletic Director, Varsity Basketball Assistant Coach, English & Sports Broadcasting Teacher

Parker Kirwan

Athletic Director, Varsity Basketball Assistant Coach, English & Sports Broadcasting Teacher

Phone:434-992-0524
Email:pkirwan@blueridgeschool.com

Cade Lemcke, P'26

Varsity Basketball Head Coach, Director of Special Programs

Cade Lemcke, P'26

Varsity Basketball Head Coach, Director of Special Programs

Coach Cade serves as the Head Coach for Varsity Basketball and is the Director of Special Programs overseeing internal and external use of the campus and facilities in the summer and breaks during the school year. He has also taught Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 here on campus and leads the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) group. Lemcke took over the basketball program in 2015 after serving as the associate coach in the 2014-2015 season for longtime coach, Bill Ramsey. During his time at BRS, the basketball team has won 3 state championships and 4 conference titles.

Prior to arriving at Blue Ridge, Coach Cade was an assistant coach at Longwood University. Prior to entering the college coaching ranks, he was the founder/director of the East Coast Fusion AAU Program. Lemcke played at the University of Virginia for Coach Pete Gillen.

Upon graduating from UVA’s McIntire School of Commerce in 2002, Lemcke started Off Campus Access, Inc and worked with colleges and universities as they expanded their dining hall meal plans to off campus restaurants in the community. He also spent time as the Director of Finance at the John Paul Jones Arena.

Coach Cade lives on campus with his wife, Karen, and their three children (Cohen, Mikella, and Caris).

University of Virginia, BS

Phone:434-992-0549
Email:clemcke@blueridgeschool.com

Donny Moss

Associate Director of Admissions, Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach

Donny Moss

Associate Director of Admissions, Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach

Donny's career as a player and coach is truly impressive, having won back-to-back NCAA Div. III National Championships as Assistant Coach at RIT in 2021 and 2022 in addition to being recognized as a First-Team All-American and Div. III Defensive Player of the Year in his undergraduate days. Donny lives on campus with his partner Jennie and their two young sons, where they are able to share their mutual love of outdoors, music and art.

Adelphi University
Elmira College

Phone:434-992-0567
Email:dmoss@blueridgeschool.com

Jamie Miller III, Alumni ‘94

Senior Director of Enrollment Management, JV Basketball Assistant Coach

Jamie Miller III, Alumni ‘94

Senior Director of Enrollment Management, JV Basketball Assistant Coach

Proud graduate of the Class of 1994, Jamie has worked in both the Admissions and Advancement Offices over the past 20 years. He has coached multiple sports at Blue Ridge, lived on campus for 13 years and is an active member of our Alumni Association. His wife of over 20 years is also in education.

Presbyterian College, BA

Phone: 434-992-0528
Email:jmiller@blueridgeschool.com

Jahlil Puryear, Alumni ‘17

Director of Football Programs

Jahlil Puryear, Alumni ‘17

Director of Football Programs

After a tremendous student career here at Blue Ridge – in which he served as a Prefect, won the St. George Award, and helped lead us to a State Championship in 2016 – Puryear continued his education at Hampton University. At Hampton, Puryear quickly moved from walk-on to a scholarship athlete, playing multiple positions including TE, RB, LB and special teams. He also excelled in the classroom, being named to the student-athlete Dean’s List four times in his tenure and ultimately earning a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a Criminal Justice concentration. Puryear discovered his passion for coaching in high school, spending summers volunteering with local youth teams. His professional coaching career began at BRS in 2022, where he was promoted to defensive coordinator after just one season and played an essential role in our state-championship runner-up season in 2023. In 2024 and 2025, he continued his coaching leadership at Sidwell Friends School, again being promoted to defensive coordinator after just one year. He returned to BRS as our Varsity Football Head Coach in the fall of 2025

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