Several faculty at Blue Ridge School have been given promotions in recognition for their outstanding leadership, devotion to student success, and professional development. Headmaster Trip Darrin says, “I am thrilled that such talented educators continue to serve the students of Blue Ridge School, and these promotions give us the opportunity to celebrate their good work. These five members of Team Baron are ready for the increased responsibilities inherent within their new roles.”
Pete Bonds has been named Dean of the Faculty and Academic Dean. Mr. Bonds has been a history teacher at Blue Ridge School since 2010. He has been a leader in the school-wide implementation of project-based learning; he provides valuable teacher evaluation and feedback to ensure continued excellence in the classroom. In 2018, he attended the International Boys’ Schools Coalition conference in Australia and continues to work with Coalition members on issues surrounding boys’ education. Mr. Bonds earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina and his master’s degree from James Madison University.
Wendy Evans has been named Director of the Fishburne Learning Center. Ms. Evans has been a teacher in the Center since 2015 and previously served as co-director. For some 30 years she has taught special education in a multitude of settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from James Madison University.
Robert McMurtry has been named Director of Finance. Mr. McMurtry joined Blue Ridge School in 2018 as controller; he is a Certified Public Accountant with experience in both large and small firms and has a passion for nonprofit financial management. He is also an assistant mountain biking coach at Blue Ridge. He earned his bachelor’s degree from George Mason University.
Hans Hermanson has been named Dean of Residence Life and Assistant Dean of Students. He has been a religion teacher and residence life leader at Blue Ridge School since 2012. He is fully immersed in the lives of students as a hall parent, teacher, and leader of the winter Outdoorsmen program. Mr. Hermanson earned his bachelor’s degree from Davis & Elkins College and his master’s degree from the University of Edinburgh. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army and 1997 graduate of Blue Ridge School.
Cory Woods has been named Director of Environmental Resources. He has been an outdoor education teacher at Blue Ridge School since 2009 and has served as the Assistant Director of the Outdoor Education Program. He regularly guides students on outdoor programs, from hiking in the Shenandoah National Park to canoeing in local rivers. He is also a leader of the spring Outdoor Activities program. In recent years he has partnered with the American Chestnut Foundation and Trout Unlimited for student projects and research. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Western State College of Colorado and his master’s degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
