Two New Deans Named

 

“At this year’s commencement, as the Class of 2013 graduates, Peter Briggs ’71 will complete his final round in the Deans Office,” explained Headmaster Philip.  “His service as a Dean of Students has spanned close to three decades, a Westminster School record not to be equaled any time soon. Please join me in congratulating Mr. Briggs at this impressive milestone in his career. He will now turn his attention to teaching, coaching and advising.  With his energy, talent and boundless commitment to the school, he will remain an integral part of what makes Westminster School such a special place. Mr. Briggs’ decision along with Mr. Sistare’s appointment as Director of Studies provided an opportunity to appoint two new Deans of Students.”  

 

Grant Gritzmacher was appointed to the Westminster faculty in 2004, and he has taught science, coached swimming, football and baseball, and served as a corridor supervisor.  He attended the Hopkins School in New Haven, Conn., and earned his B.A. from the University of Texas and his M.A. from the University of Connecticut.  At last spring’s commencement, he won the Swayze Award given annually to a faculty member “for outstanding contributions to the life of the school.”  “Having taught, coached and advised many Third Formers this year, Mr. Gritzmacher is looking forward to serving as Dean of Students for the Class of 2016,” said Headmaster Philip.

 

A graduate of Trinity College and pursuing her master’s degree at Wesleyan University, Jessica Keough was appointed to the faculty at Westminster in 2008.  She has served as Associate Director of Admissions, taught history, and coached field hockey, ice hockey and lacrosse, while also serving as a corridor supervisor.  In addition to attending Tabor as a student, she has also served on the faculties at Hebron Academy and Pomfret School. “Throughout, Mrs. Keough invests herself enthusiastically in boarding school life, seeking opportunities to support and teach students inside and outside of the classroom,” said Headmaster Philip. “She will serve as Dean of Students for the Class of 2017.”

 

Deans of Students at Westminster advance students in their respective Forms as they progress through their four years together as a class. They work closely with the Form Officers, provide an important point of contact for parents, coordinate initiatives with their faculty colleagues and provide an ongoing point of coordination and availability for students.  “Please join me in congratulating Mr. Gritzmacher and Mrs. Keough on their appointments,” said Headmaster Philip.