By Chelsea Simpson ‘17, Sophia Tawney ‘17, Donatella Mancinone ‘18, Abigayle Hovey ‘18
New Math teacher Ms. More was drawn to Westminster because of the community’s camaraderie. Ms. More’s father was a fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy, so she lived in eight different houses before she was eight years old. She looks forward to coaching softball and maintaining Westy’s distinguished record. No pressure.
Ms. Cooper, a new member of the Science Department, attended Hotchkiss school, then went on to major in neuroscience in college. She wanted to teach at Westminster because she loves the private school life. Ms. Cooper dreaded playing Westminster in athletics when she was at Hotchkiss, but is now looking forward to being on the winning side while coaching First Softball this spring.
Mrs. Brewer, the Director of Parent Giving, managed a successful career in finance, working with such banks as JP Morgan Chase and Chase Manhattan. She has also worked extensively in community service as a trustee and a member of the board of directors of various charity and school organizations.
Mrs. Crosby, a member of the Admissions Office, was born and raised in Granby, CT. She moved from Deerfield School with her husband, daughter, and dog and is ecstatic about joining the Westminster community. When she’s not working in admissions or coaching, Mrs. Crosby loves cooking, especially with friends. She is most looking forward to immersing herself and her family into the Westminster community.
Ms. Mann, Associate Director of Admissions, grew up at and attended Miss Porter’s School before working at The Ethel Walker School. Sixth Formers, listen up! Ms. Mann shares her middle name with the college she attended, Hamilton. “Coincidence, I think not!” There’s no substantial proof of correlation, but it isn’t too late to make some last minute changes to your middle name just in case. Maybe reach out to Ms. Mann for further inquiries…
Mrs. Wood, originally from New Canaan, CT, has been teaching for 22 years, from Pre-K to highschool. The newest member of the English Department, she moved to Simsbury with Mr. Wood and son Riley Cooper ‘19. She and Mr. Wood have three older children in college. In her spare time, Mrs. Wood enjoys traveling, skiing and traveling to Maine.
This will be Mr. Wood’s 26th year of teaching Spanish! He Is a good friend of TGriff who luckily told him of the job opening. He is eager to meet other new students and faculty as well and excited to learn Westy traditions.
Mr. Batten taught Spanish for five years prior to coming to Westminster. He is excited about coaching Strength and Conditioning in the winter. Awesomely enough, he knows all of the words to Vanilla Ice’s 1990′s work, “Ice Ice Baby.”
Mr. Ford has spent more than 41 years teaching English in independent schools. After leaving Westminster in 2008, he is very glad to be back at a a school he likes to call home. He is excited to be working alongside Mr. Cervas again in the English Department.
Mr. Crosby in the Advancement Office attended Phillips Exeter Academy before going to Tufts University. He was an athlete in college, playing ice hockey and lacrosse. Prior to coming to Westminster, Mr. Crosby worked at Deerfield Academy.
Mrs. McDermott graduated from the Hartford Conservatory before then beginning a long teaching career at the Lakeside Academy of Dance, SOMA dance company, and the West Hartford Community Theater to name a few. She currently lives in West Hartford with her husband, and dog Olivia!
Mr. Bramble is teaching Engineering and Design and AP Art History, and is known to break out in song in class. He brings a wealth of experience, from curating museums to teaching at Northwestern Connecticut Community College, the University of Connecticut, Post University and the University of New Haven. He is also a painter who has exhibited across the country.
Mrs. Johri comes to Westminster from Miss Porter’s School, where she was Head Librarian for eleven years. She has an MA in both library science and economics and lives in West Hartford with her husband. We all look forward to getting to know Mrs. Johri better!
Mr. Probert comes to us from Philips Exeter Academy, where he served as the Director of Advancement. A Westminster grad (class of 1980), he was the Junior Prefect and President of his Sixth Form class. He is thrilled to be back at Westy and looks forward to meeting many students.
Ms. Shubert is the Assistant Director of the Westminster Fund. She has volunteered extensively and lives in Manchester with her two corgis.
Mrs. Kendall is an artist and art teacher who joined the Art Department last winter. She paints extensively and is excited to share her love of art with all.
