Join us as we say farewell to departing faculty and staff, whose contributions, both in and out of the classroom, have shaped the experiences of countless students and colleagues. As they embark on this new chapter of their lives, we celebrate their achievements and cherish the memories they leave behind. 

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Chéri Mellor

Starting Year: 1978–1987 (1987–1996 taught at University of Michigan), then returned to GS in 1996 

Roles: Spanish teacher, dorm parent, coach (volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer and tennis), longtime member of the Faculty Concerns Committee, Head of Language Department (1996–2010).

Path to GS: “My college Middlebury College French professor, Claudie Fischer, taught me in 1974–75, and when she left to work for GS, she alerted me that there was a position for French and Spanish. I got the job the day after my graduation!”

Favorite campus memories: “In 1997 as tennis coach, I invited my team over to my apartment in Tate House, the house on campus with a documented ghost. It was the day after Halloween, a rainy night, spooky enough for a post-season tennis party. I had the team over for a party complete with a Ouija board. We had just been to the basement where it is said that Dr. Tate buried a Hessian soldier that he and students had dissected. The scene was set! My team asked the Ouija board all sorts of personal questions about the soldier. At one point, a player unknowingly hit my answering machine with her foot just as a personal question was being answered on the board. The answering machine blurted out in a loud male voice: “NO NEW MESSAGES!” Screams, terror and almost panic struck the girls. Then, to top off the evening, as all of us were still Ouija-ing, one of my cats walked across the tank of my toilet, slipped and hit the flusher, flushing the toilet. More excitement, since the girls were convinced that the ghost had just used the bathroom! I’ll never forget that exciting evening with my team!”

GS people who inspired you and why: “My college professor turned colleague Claudie Fischer. Her organizational abilities and kind patience with all students always impressed me. As head of the language department at GS, she showed me how to deal with all sorts of challenges. I was always awestruck by how she juggled her responsibilities and her personal life. She has always been my inspiration. We have been best friends for over 50 years!"

Points of pride: “I cannot think of anything more notable than 48 years as a teacher and loving (almost) every minute of it. The classroom (and the tennis courts!) have been where I feel most comfortable. There are countless wonderful memories of students and players learning how to raise their own bar and I have witnessed that ‘ah-ha!’ moment over and over again.”

What you’ll miss: “Without a doubt, I will miss my advisees, my tennis team players and my students, especially those who grew in confidence in any part of their journey. And also I will miss my current and former colleagues especially in the language department, known for its close-knit and collaborative spirit.”

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: I look forward to playing TENNIS as much as possible. Also, [partner and English faculty] Edna Valdepeñas and I are going to be grandparents late this summer. So, I will spend lots of time with our grandson, spoiling him as much as his parents will tolerate!

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Cindy Law

Starting Year: 1990

Roles: financial aid and enrollment coordinator, Admission Office and School Office support, served on many committees as well as adult peer group.

Path to GS: “After working part-time until my kids were in school, I decided to seek full-time employment. I originally interviewed for a position in the Physical Plant Office. They filled the position; however, an opportunity became available in the Admission Office!”

Favorite campus memories: “I loved Outdoor Challenge weekend when I was an adult peer group leader. The purpose was to build trust and friendship, which I think it did. But top on my list is graduation – George School graduation is always so special.”

GS people who inspired you and why: “Jenna Davis ’78 was in the Admission Office in many roles for years. I learned so much about myself, but more importantly, about how to relate and truly listen to others. The life skills she taught will be with me forever. The humor that existed in the office under Jenna taught us all how to be a cohesive team. We learned that humor helps build bonds. We all worked so hard and accomplished so much, but always were able to laugh.”

Points of pride: “There are a number of policies in place that, as a member of Community Concerns, now Staff Concerns, I was a major player in implementing. I am thrilled that the committee still exists!”

What you’ll miss: “The people! It’s something everyone says, but it’s true. I will never find such an incredible community with people who love what they do. The students are so blessed.”

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: “Traveling! We have some trips planned already, beginning with a trip to Bermuda! I have been in touch with some local volunteer groups in Bucks County and am looking forward to helping where I am needed.”

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Elaine Lengle

Starting Year: 2014

Roles: administrative assistant and program enrollment specialist (September 2014 – January 2023), director of auxiliary programs (January 2023 – March 2026)

Path to GS: “I was working as an executive assistant and office manager for a landscape contracting company in New Jersey. I had been there for a decade and was looking for a career change. I saw the posting for the role at George School and applied. I had never heard of George School prior to coming to campus for my interview, and I had no experience with boarding schools. I was blown away by how beautiful the campus was.”

Favorite campus memories: “I love new student registration because it is such a high energy event. The incoming students and families are excited and nervous, and I loved being part of a day that showcased the best of GS! I also loved the change of seasons at GS, particularly summer to fall and winter to spring. I had a beautiful magnolia tree outside the window in my office, and I loved to see it bloom in the spring. I also loved hearing the little ones at the Children’s Center playing outside under the tree.”

GS people who inspired you and why: “There are some incredibly talented students at GS. I was always inspired when I got to witness their talents firsthand. All of my colleagues in the Business Office and Auxiliary Programs inspired me on a daily basis. They are some of the most dedicated, hardworking people I have ever had the pleasure to work with, and they are just amazing human beings.”

Points of pride: “I am proud of all of the collaborative work I was able to be a part of in my time at GS. Everyone was working with the same goal of improving a process or the student and participant experience. Collectively, we accomplished a lot in the past 12 years!”

What you’ll miss: “Without a doubt, what I will miss most is the people that I was privileged to get to work with every day. They weren’t just my colleagues; they became my work family.”

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: “I am looking forward to exploring a new area and embarking a new adventure. I love being outdoors in nature. Relocating to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia has already provided an opportunity to see some amazing feats of nature. I’m not sure we will be able to check everything off of our nature bucket list, but we are going to try!”

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Kim Major

Starting Year: 2016

Roles: associate director of Admission, co-director of Admission, director of Admission, dorm parent, advisor, class sponsor for the Class of 2019, trip leader for Costa Rica service-learning trip (twice), faculty sponsor for sexual assault prevention task force, clerk of the pandemic response team, organizer of summer shindigs.

Path to GS: “I was fortunate to attend boarding school, and I knew that I wanted my career to land in a boarding school at some point. After shifting my career from Advancement to Admission, through work in higher education admission, I began my search for a boarding school admission role. When I interviewed at GS, I knew it was where I wanted to be; the sense of community, the focus on inclusion and the rigorous academics all made a positive impression on me.”

Favorite campus memories: “Any Commencement is an easy favorite; it is such a special ceremony here! Along with that, I love Senior Meeting for Worship, where seniors reflect on the gratitude they feel for the people and place of George School. I also really love early morning walks on campus, especially in the spring, with everything in bloom and running into deer, rabbits, foxes, birds and more.”

GS people who inspired you and why: “I was inspired by so many here. I will miss working with Laura Kinnel tremendously; her sense of integrity, her intellect, the care she takes to honor the mission of the school is impressive and has been a guiding light. I also miss my late afternoon chats with former CFO Michael Toohey, who held a similar vision for the school as I do. Finally, I loved the summers I spent hosting international students who could not go home. The summer where we routinely had students from Afghanistan, Kenya and Ukraine around the table was magical!”

Points of pride: “While it was hard work, being part of a team that transformed Admission practices during the pandemic was invigorating, and we made program changes that continue to benefit the Admission Office today. What I will truly hold dear to my heart, however, was the work I did with advisees and students in the dorm. I know that by simply being there, by encouraging students – and by holding them accountable – I had a positive impact on them. I came to George School to connect with students, and I feel I was truly able to do so.”

What you’ll miss: “I will miss my colleagues and friends the most. While I will be moving onto another school, it won’t have the same residential community. I love being able to know good friends are right next door. I will also miss the trees blooming in the spring; no campus is as pretty this time of year!”

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: “I am moving onto a school that is in its infancy. I am excited to be part of building something from the ground up. It is going to be hard work, but I am ready for the challenge!”

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Mo West

Starting Year: 1997

Roles: teacher, advisor, curriculum coordinator, arts department head, club sponsor, class sponsor of ’06 and ’08, commencement committee, nominating committee, faculty concerns committee, Dodd teaching chair, Price chair, Lang fellowship recipient, co-assembly coordinator, director of 80+ productions, proud parent of Emily ’05.

Path to GS: “I was first invited by former Director of Vocal Music Jackie Coren to direct the musical ‘Jacques Brel,’ which at the time was produced by the chorus class. I filled a year-long sabbatical vacancy by my predecessor, and then taught English for several years until the theater teacher position became available.”

Favorite campus memories: “Attending McCarter Theater productions with IB and Advanced Acting students, and all the time I spent with students over the years both on and off campus.”

GS people who inspired you and why: “Associate Head of School Scott Spence has been a constant inspiration for me, with his strong yet humble leadership. He is wise, compassionate and represents what inner light means to me. I will forever be grateful to Scott as a mentor and hopefully a lifelong friend.”

Points of pride: “I am proud of all the students I have spent time with throughout my GS career, especially those who have stayed in touch to tell me of their life successes. Of special note are those who have embraced the world of theater and continue to work in the profession. There are so many who practice performance art on the stage, behind the scenes and in film. If I had a small part in helping them, they are my greatest source of pride.”

What you’ll miss: “Definitely the students and my wonderful production team in the performance classes. Collaborating with arts department colleagues Scott Crandall, Dave Nolan, Kevin Davis and Linda Bee has been an honor and a privilege.”

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: “Professional surprises and opportunities and spending more time traveling with family – husband Bob, sister Michele, daughter Emily ’05, son-in-law Dan – and my two AMAZING grandchildren Alejandro and Isabel.”

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Terry Tuttle

Starting Year: 2001

Roles: College Counseling office manager, Slemrod Engagement and Commitment Award recipient, People of Color Conference attendee, George School administrator phone coverage, member of Calendar Committee, Academic Technology Group, Community Concerns and many staff search committees, GS parent of Tyler ’06 and Chelsie ’08

Path to GS: “I was drawn to George School because of its strong reputation and a recommendation from a former colleague in the Business Office, Lisa Smoots. In 2013, Nancy Starmer invited me to move onto campus — a moment that made the opportunity even more special.”

Favorite campus memories: “Former Music Director Jackie Coren created such special moments for our community. Each year, she organized a brief student performance for staff in the dining hall. One year, a group of students performed Bohemian Rhapsody — one of my all-time favorite songs. They did such an incredible job that I couldn’t help but sing along with them. It was such a beautiful, joyful moment that I became emotional and found myself crying tears of joy.” 

GS people who inspired you and why: “Our director, Beth Ann Burkmar, is truly exceptional. She is caring, warm and creative, and she connects so naturally with our team, our students and the broader community. She consistently encourages her staff to pursue both personal and professional growth. I am also deeply grateful for everyone on my team — Emily Carmichael, Nick Dillman and Michael Qualiano — as well as so many wonderful colleagues from previous years, including Tova Meyer, Catherine Box, Rachael Polton, former Director of College Counseling Nancy Culleton and Peggy Anderson. I learned so much from each of them. Beyond our office, I’ve been inspired by individuals like [Registrar] Val Fusco, [Student Health and Wellness Administrator} Indira Rodrigo, [Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion] Rachel Williams, [French teacher] Marie-Laure Epaminondas [Physical Plant staff member] Tina Argueta, [dining room staff member] Buppha Niranon (Bu) and countless others who lead their quiet lives with kindness and compassion. And I was enormously inspired by the late [dining room staff member] Katie Lumpkin — a funny, uplifting soul and a true inspiration.”

Points of pride: “I feel like I help people get through their day with a smile and a bit of encouragement. I feel respected, both as a person and as a professional. Receiving the Slemrod Engagement and Commitment Award was such an honor. I’m incredibly proud of how our faculty and staff came together during the pandemic — working tirelessly to ensure our students continued to grow and to remind them not to be afraid. I’m also proud that we were able to keep campus open for students who couldn’t return home. That meant so much. On a personal note, I’m deeply proud of my two daughters, Tyler ’06 and Chelsie ’08. Tyler is doing a wonderful job raising my two beautiful grandchildren. Chelsie returned to work at George School after college and led Westwood dorm during the pandemic and several years after — which was truly something special."

What you’ll miss: “Friends, the sense of community, and this beautiful campus — these are the things I’ll miss most. I’ll miss The Children’s Center. I love seeing the way the teachers care for their little ones, and being able to see my granddaughter and son-in-law every day has been such a gift. I’ll miss the noise. The excitement. Even the worries you hear from students — they remind you why you’re here: to help them navigate the ups and downs of all the emotions they experience at this stage of their lives. I love seeing how students here care for one another. Just the other day, I saw a student who was clearly stressed, but her friend was right beside her offering encouragement. It’s been 25 years and I feel so lucky to have landed here. If I weren’t moving into this next chapter — retiring and spending more time with family — I wouldn’t be leaving George School.”

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: “Spending meaningful time with family and friends, and traveling!”

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Tom Hoopes ’83

Starting Year: 2008

Roles: teacher of “Spiritual Nurture and Religious Studies,” Religions department head, Orton dormitory head, Muslim Students Association faculty sponsor, JV Boys Lacrosse and Cross-Country coach, Student Council faculty sponsor, trip leader to Nicaragua and Cuba service-learning trips, consulting director of George School Children’s Center

Path to GS: “After I graduated from GS, the prospect of returning to teach was nowhere on my radar screen. Then, 15 years later, after living in San Francisco and Seattle, I returned to the area to become the director of education of the Philadelphia-area Quakers (Philadelphia Yearly Meeting). I supported the Committee on Friends Education, which related directly to Friends schools. Two members of that committee were Director of Studies Laura Kinnel and Associate Head of School Scott Spence, whom I became close with. When a position opened up at George School, they encouraged me to apply, and in 2008 – 25 years after graduating – I found my way back to GS!”

Favorite campus memories: Meeting for worship. “I have loved how protective of meeting for worship our older students are. In each generation, they begin to come of age and realize the crucial role of MFW in their own experience. Spoken messages by seniors are among the most profound and insightful wisdom I have ever heard, and each year it miraculously happens again!” 

Orton. “Bringing all-gender housing to Orton and supporting boys on their way to manhood without succumbing to toxic masculinity has been the honor of a lifetime. ORT!”

Political Activism. “Over the years, it has been a joy to accompany so many students in cutting their teeth on political activism. We have participated in huge climate marches in NYC and Philly; an all-school gun violence walkout to our current Congressional representative's office; Earth Quaker Action Team (EQAT) protests of investment in climate destruction; and a women's reproductive rights rally in Doylestown.” 

GS people who inspired you and why: Former history faculty member John Davison. “I have been grateful to call him my mentor, my colleague and my friend. His inimitable combination of joie de vivre, anger at injustice and courageous passion for truth has inspired me for over 40 years.” 

Laramore Award winners. “These ‘quiet givers’ are people who embody the spiritual essence of George School, tirelessly modeling passion, care, empathy and integrity while attracting next-to-no attention to themselves. Wow.” 

Director of Studies Laura Kinnel. “Among the most competent, caring and effective people I have had the privilege of knowing in my life. I want to live in a world run by people like Laura!” 

Associate Head of School Scott Spence. “Toiling in the vineyards of Quaker education, Scott embodies the spiritual center of George School. He has endured the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune time and again, and yet somehow is still standing.”

Points of pride: “Unbeknownst to many, the thriving Children’s Center at the heart of our campus, in the basement of Main, almost went away in 2015. Some colleagues and I decided that this was a cause worth fighting for. After a protracted struggle, the Children’s Center ended up staying right where it was, with a year-round calendar and air-conditioning to boot. Hooray! In addition, a long time ago, I observed that there were no swings on our campus. Seeing this as a spiritual missed opportunity, I got permission from former Grounds Supervisor Vince Campellone to install some. My son Jacob ’19 and I promptly got to work! When I see how core they have become to the cultural identity of our community, I feel a surge of joy and pride.”

What you’ll miss: “I have come to take for granted the culture of kindness that pervades our community. I expect that it will be a rude shock for me to discover that not everyone is so consistently generous, well-intentioned and open to continuing revelation as I have experienced at GS.” 

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: “I look forward to providing support for my older son during this unfortunate chapter of history for our country and for my family, in particular. I look forward to connecting with the Quaker and the extended GS community in the Pacific Northwest, as we work together to chart a course toward integrity and sustainability for our beleaguered country. Portland seems like a good place to continue my share of that work!”

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Valerie Greaud

Starting Year: 2003

Roles: math teacher, Religions teacher, Learning Center staff, advisor, co-op coordinator, dorm parent and dorm head, leader of local and domestic service trips, weekend dean, GS parent Class of ’09 and ’11.

Path to GS: “I visited for a classroom observation during my secondary math teacher certification process. The math department head at the time, Bill Enos, let me know that they were planning to start a statistics program and asked if I would be interested in applying. (Yes, I was!)”

Favorite campus memories: “Working with students in the Learning Center, collaborating with the dining room staff and walking through campus in the early evening!”

GS people who inspired you and why: “Laura Kinnel has greatly inspired me to not let small frustrations get in the way of finding a solution for important issues.”

Points of pride: “The math department used to offer one very small statistics class every other year; now, we have many options for studying statistics, and nearly every student studies some statistics! I’m also very proud of the work by all Learning Center staff over the years to make it a place where students feel welcomed and supported.”

What you’ll miss: “The students and my colleagues.”

What you’re most looking forward to in this new chapter: “Time with my family, bicycling, hiking and gardening, reading, quilting and traveling.”