The New Faces of DA's Faculty & Staff: Middle School 2026
The New Faces of DA's Faculty & Staff: Middle School
Their colleagues, students and athletes have learned in two weeks what you will learn soon: Durham Academy’s newest faculty and staff members are right at home on roads Academy and Ridge. They arrive with a slew of moral, happy and productive experiences — and they arrive with an appetite for more.
Meet the incoming cohort of new hires at DA.
Middle School
Brett Anderson
Digital Learning Coordinator & Computer Science and STEAM Teacher
Education: University of North Florida, B.A. in Anthropology
Previously: Discovery Charter School (Durham), Computer Science and Engineering Teacher
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I’m excited to join Durham Academy because my new role at DA brings together so many things I care about: teaching STEM and computer science, coaching robotics, supporting teachers as a Digital Learning Coordinator and helping students grow as creative, confident problem-solvers.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “I value creativity because creative thinking promotes adaptability. It helps students view challenges from different angles, adjust when their initial ideas fail and find the motivation to keep trying until they succeed.”
The last book I read: Artemis by Andy Weir
My song of the summer: “Sleepyhead” by Young & Sick
Best show on streaming right now: Masters of the Air
My favorite obsession: Chess
My favorite memory in education: “One of my favorite memories in education was watching a robotics team of sixth graders grow from a rough idea into a group that could explain their choices, defend their design and keep improving through setbacks. They eventually made it to the VEX IQ World Championship, but the best part was seeing them take ownership of their work and realize it could lead to real-world success.”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: Hi-C Ecto Cooler
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: My phone
Kayleigh Becker
Movement Teacher and Seventh Grade Advisor
Education: University of North Carolina-Charlotte, B.A. in Dance (K–12 Education)
Previously: Dance Educator, General Johnnie Wilson Middle School (Ohio)
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I chose DA because of the honesty and transparency offered to me in the interview process. I believe authenticity is key to building communities, and while onsite at DA, everyone was so kind and open about their experiences — even when speaking about not-so-great moments. The approach of “we can do better” and positive embracing of challenges was so refreshing, and I’m excited to grow here!”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Engagement and authenticity. To me, these go hand in hand — showing up authentically and ready to engage with others creates communities that support each other as well as the good of the group.”
The last book I read: The Culting of America: What Makes a Cult and Why We Love Them by Daniella Mestyanek Young and Amy Reed
My song of the summer: “A Few Of Your Own” by Noah Kahan
Best show on streaming right now: New Girl
My favorite obsession: “Knit and crochet.”
My favorite memory in education: “My favorite memory from my educational career is watching my most recent group of eighth graders choreograph their final performance piece from top to bottom. I will forever be amazed by that group: I gave ideas and revisions, but they wholly created the movement and formations, and they taught each other the dance in a way that was respectful, collaborative and honored every voice. I’m excited to build and become part of similar dance communities at DA!”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: Cinnamon Almond Milk Macchiato from Starbucks
More about me: “While dance is my main focus, I also have an extensive technical theatre background and have classical training in acting techniques. Those ideas often come up in my teaching and lessons. Additionally, I am a multi-certified educator: Acrobatic Arts, Dance Masters of America and a member of the National Dance Education Organization.
Outside of the dance classroom, I am married to my high school sweetheart, Alex, and we are the parents to a very cool 4-year-old, Grant. We are coming from the Cleveland, Ohio, area and are excited to build a life in much better weather!”
Sharon Iorgulescu
Middle School Spanish Teacher
Education: • University of Kansas, B.A. in Spanish
• Loyola University Chicago, M.Ed. in Spanish
Previously: • Spanish Challenge Teacher (Long-Term Substitute), Hillbrook School (California)
• Spanish Tutor & Academic Specialist, EnGenius Learning Center (California)
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Curiosity is my most valued character trait in a Durham Academy graduate. By driving students to ask questions and seek answers, curiosity naturally fosters all 15 character traits while promoting lifelong learning and growth.”
My song of the summer: “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
Best show on streaming right now: All Creatures Great and Small
My favorite obsession: “Gardening is my favorite hobby. It connects me to nature, reduces stress and nothing beats the joy of watching my hard work grow.”
My favorite memory in education: “There really is a unique energy to ‘Back to School’ night — that mixture of anticipation and the tangible hope for a great year ahead. Seeing those family resemblances — not just in looks but in gestures and expressions as parents navigate the school layout — makes it such a grounding reminder of the community behind every student.”
More about me: “My favorite quote, from Miguel de Cervantes: ‘Él que lee mucho y anda mucho ve mucho y sabe mucho.’ (‘He who reads much and travels much sees much and knows much.’)”
Same Faces, New Spaces
A familiar name has taken on a new role at the Middle School.
Mike Harris, Physical Education Teacher and Seventh Grade Advisor Harris, who previously served as a Middle School Social Studies Teacher, is also the Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach.
Ginny Robinson, Assistant Director for Academics Robinson adds academic assistant director responsibilities to her role as Middle School Language Arts Teacher. She also previously served as a Middle School Academic Dean.
Molly Ward, Social Studies Teacher and Sixth Grade Advisor Ward previously served as a second grade teaching assistant in Tracy Riddle’s classroom.
All School
Alex Creech
Sustainability Director
Education: • East Carolina University, B.F.A. in Theatre Education
• Harvard University, A.L.M. in Sustainability (Expected 2027)
Previously: English Department Chair, Bradford Preparatory School (Charlotte)
Why I chose Durham Academy: “What excites me about joining DA is the scale of what's possible here: two campuses, a school invested in doing the right thing and room to build something real!”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Joy! It is so important to find and cultivate joy in what we do. Joy is sometimes overlooked in place of traits that are more ‘productive,’ but joy is what makes life worth living!”
The last book I read: Paperback Crush: The Totally Radical History of ’80s and ’90s Teen Fiction by Gabrielle Moss
My song of the summer: Man I Need by Olivia Dean
Best show on streaming right now: The Good Place
My favorite memory in education: “When I taught journalism, we had a whole broadcast studio that had been donated to our school by the local news. It had an anchor desk, cameras, the recording equipment, the works. We decided one year we were going to do a live broadcast to the entire school for the student government elections. It was amazing! It was a full “Election Night” coverage, with speculation discussions, campaign ads from the candidates, interviews with the outgoing student body president, election graphics and more. We got to announce the winners live on air and cut to an on-the-spot interview with the presidential winner, who got to give his winning speech. The electricity in the room during that broadcast was incredible, and the students felt like they were really doing something amazing. One of the co-anchors decided to major in broadcast journalism in college as a result! It was definitely the coolest thing I've ever gotten to do in school.”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: “I’m sure they were TERRIBLE for you, but I do get nostalgic for Dunkaroos.”
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: “This may sound crazy, but my smart phone. I have one because I feel like I need to in this day and age, but I could happily trade it in for a flip phone that only makes calls and texts!”
More about me: “I'm an open book! Don't hesitate to ask me about anything. I've had a very interesting career so far and I'm so excited for this next chapter.”
Chloe Del Signore
School Nurse
Education: • University of Colorado, B.A. in English Literature
• Cape Fear Community College, A.S. in Nursing
Previously: Charge Nurse / Registered Nurse, Duke University Hospital’s Pediatric Cardiac ICU
Why I chose Durham Academy: “After many years taking care of some of the sickest children in the world, I am excited to work in an environment where I can see children thrive and grow!”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “I think integrity, responsibility and courage are all imperative characteristics. Taking responsibility for one's successes and failures requires both integrity and courage.”
My song of the summer: “Sounds Like the Radio” by Zach Top
Best show on streaming right now: Clarkson’s Farm
My favorite obsession: Gardening
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: Smart phone
Stephanie McCollum
Philanthropy Gifts and Operations Coordinator (as of April 2026)
Education: American University, B.A. in Public Communications
Previously: Gift Records Specialist/Administrative Assistant, Methodist University (Fayetteville)
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I am excited to join DA because I know I have something of value to offer. Once I get my footing and find my niche — like so many others who've joined and remained — I won't just be marking time. I'll become part of a community.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “I select AUTHENTICITY as my most valued DA character trait. In my lifetime, I have learned the importance of being authentically myself and ensuring — to the best of my ability — that my interactions are honest and truthful. Authenticity is sometimes hard, and it takes courage. I wake up with the hope of being the best representation of me that I can be. I am a believer. Anyone who knows me knows that. I am rooted in self-definition and self-expression. I have been blessed with various life experiences and am full of possibilities. I had to learn to become comfortable with who I am and what I represent; time is the best incubator!
“My truth is that I really like what I have seen and experienced during my short time at DA. Everyone I have met so far — my Philanthropy colleagues, the HR team, students, faculty and staff, teachers and administrators — has been absolutely amazing. I am truly honored to be a part of and working within this community.”
The last book I read: Sula by Toni Morrison
My song of the summer: “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
Best show on streaming right now: The Amazing Race. “I just love it.”
My favorite obsession: “Singing and performing arts. And karaoke. You pick the place!”
My favorite memory in education: "I was a young wife and working mother. I never had a traditional college experience. My parents could not afford tuition, so I started my career at 19. In my early 20s, I told my supervisor about a prestigious four-year university I wanted to attend after moving to the Washington, D.C., area. He discouraged me. He felt it was out of reach and told me to settle for a community college instead. His words made me work even harder. I got into the university and earned a scholarship. When I received the acceptance letter, he was one of the first people I showed it to. The lesson is simple: Never let anyone define your limits. You do not have to live inside their box." One discontinued item I wish were still available: Neese’s Country Sausage
Same Faces, New Spaces
Some familiar names have taken on new roles serving the entire DA community.
Tiffany Lim, Data Systems Manager and Upper School Registrar Lim previously served as an Upper School Math Teacher. She is also the Varsity Girls Golf Assistant Coach.
Melissa Mack, Director of Digital Learning and Innovation Mack previously served as Middle School Digital Learning Coordinator and STEAM Teacher.
Lindsay Ostara, Philanthropy Services Manager Ostara previously served as Data and Gifts Services Coordinator within the Office of Philanthropy.
Victoria Price, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications Price previously served as Creative Services Manager within the Office of Marketing and Communications.
