The New Faces of DA's Faculty & Staff: Upper School and Athletics
The New Faces of DA's Faculty & Staff: Upper School and Athletics
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.
Upper School
Rachael Abernethy
English Teacher and Ninth Grade Advisor
Education: • Amherst College, B.A. in Black Studies
• University of Pennsylvania, M.S. in Education
Previously: English Teacher and Head Varsity Girls Soccer Coach, Milton Academy (Massachusetts)
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I loved my conversations with the faculty; I personally and professionally align with the values of the school; and when I walked through the halls on my interview day, so many students smiled at me and introduced themselves. I felt that the school has an awesome community, and I wanted to be a part of it.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Integrity: the opportunity to be honest with yourself and about yourself, especially when no one is watching.”
The last book I read: Exit West by Mohsin Hamid
My song of the summer: “Blame It On The Boogie” by The Jacksons
Best show on streaming right now: The West Wing
My favorite obsession: Dancing with friends
My favorite memory in education: “Watching my mentor teacher teach Sonny’s Blues by James Baldwin: I love channeling his passion for sharing that story with students.”
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: My phone
Matt Lowther
Dance Teacher (Part-Time)
Education: American Musical and Dramatic Academy (New York), A.A. in Dance Theatre
Previously: Dance Teacher, Barriskill Dance Theatre School (Durham)
Why I chose Durham Academy: “After being a student at DA from 2007–2014, I was drawn back into the fray last year to choreograph Mean Girls at the Upper School. Inspired by the dedication and passion the students had, I jumped at the opportunity to keep working with them in a more long-term capacity!”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Empathy, authenticity and generosity.”
The last book I read: Fellow Travelers by Thomas Mallon
My song of the summer: “It may be 2026 but I’m stuck in Brat Summer.”
Best show on streaming right now: “The West Wing will always be my answer!”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: “CD players in cars!”
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: “Social media in general.”
Sean Moorman
Latin Teacher
Education: • College of Charleston, B.A. in History & A.B. in Classics
• University of Maryland, M.A. in Classics
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, M.A. in Classics
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Current Ph.D. Candidate (Classics)
Previously: Long-Term Substitute Latin Teacher, DA Middle School
Why I chose Durham Academy: “Great colleagues and an accepting environment.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Empathy. One of humanity’s greatest traits is the ability to see the perspectives of others.”
The last book I read: Star Wars: Darth Bane Trilogy by Drew Karpyshyn
My song of the summer: Low Rider by Exodus
My favorite obsession: “The Roman Empire, of course.”
Ginny Ramirez-DelToro
Psychology Teacher (Part-Time)
Education: • Duke University, B.A. in Psychology
• Winthrop University (South Carolina), M.Ed. in Reading
• University of Pittsburgh, Ph.D. in Department of Instruction of Learning: Language, Literacy & Culture
Previously: Trinity College Senior Administrative Advisor, Duke University
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I am excited to join DA because it is a community whose members challenge themselves and each other to grow intellectually and morally. Teachers, students, administrators, staff and families find purpose in uplifting others academically and socially. I see DA as a place that strives to foster wisdom through confidence and humility.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “This is a tough question! Here goes: At this point in my life, I choose curiosity as my favorite because being curious leads us to listen and observe more fully. Curiosity requires suspension of judgment, an openness to being wrong and a desire to understand multiple perspectives. It helps us grow increasingly comfortable with uncertainty. And when we are genuinely curious, I believe we are able to be kinder with others and with ourselves.”
The last book I read: “I like to read one book aloud to my sons at nighttime and one on my own. Currently, I am reading Theo of Golden by Allen Levi to them, and Joyful, Anyway by Kate Bowler on my own. To actually answer the question, the last one I finished reading to them and on my own — because, to quote John Turturro from Mr. Deeds I was "very sneaky" and read ahead — most recently was Fuzzy Mud by Louis Sachar.
My song of the summer: “Well, I keep hearing Bruno Mars's I Just Might and the beat is impossible not to dance to. I prefer older music, though.”
Best show on streaming right now: “Two-way tie between Ted Lasso and Psych.”
My favorite obsession: “Spanish Rummy with my family.”
My favorite memory in education: “Every moment when I have observed students connect with each other in authentic ways, and when students and I have connected in authentic ways.”
My greatest day of teaching: “Very recently, I had my first-year students at Duke prepare and do a Moth-inspired five-minute storytelling. They amazed me with their vulnerability and humor.”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: “The Domino’s Pizza Noid. I loved that guy!”
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: “My ‘smart’ phone. I'm not on social media, but I get sucked in by funny videos and interesting articles. Not to mention, I often forget where it is, and then I worry that I can't be reached. It seems like a lot of hassle.”
More about me: “My son, Jace, is a rising ninth grader who will begin attending DA this fall. I hope I get to see him in the hallways — and maybe disguise myself as a trash can or jump out of lockers and scare him from time to time! My other son, Luke, will be at another school in sixth grade. Along with my husband, Josh, we are grateful to be raising our sons in Durham — and we happen to live just a few houses down from my parents, which is kind of the best!”
Kate Rueter
Math Teacher and Ninth Grade Advisor
Education: • University of Colorado, B.S. in Business Administration
• University of Iowa, M.A. in Mathematics Education
Previously: Upper School Mathematics Teacher and Advisor, Carolina Friends School
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I am looking forward to joining the Math department at DA! I was impressed by the breadth of course offerings and the opportunities for collaboration.”
My most valued DA character trait: “Curiosity: I think it is so important to be a lifelong learner! Curious people can adapt better to our ever-changing world. Curiosity also helps us as we seek to understand each other.”
The last book I read: The Women by Kristin Hannah
Best show on streaming right now: Shrinking
My favorite obsession: “Colorado! I grew up in Colorado, and my extended family still lives there. I love the sunshine, fresh mountain air and outdoor fun. We were so lucky to spend three weeks in Colorado this summer!”
More about me: “I have been teaching upper school math in independent schools for my entire teaching career, and I am proud that most of those years were at Georgetown Day School in Washington, D.C. GDS provided me with a foundation of excellence and collaboration in teaching.”
Walker White
Technical Theatre Teacher & Technical Director
Education: • University of Northern Colorado, B.S. in Mathematics (Emphasis in Education)
• University of North Carolina School of the Arts, M.F.A. in Technical Direction
Previously: The Special Event Company (TSEC), Technical Production Manager (Apex)
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity to join Durham Academy as the Technical Theatre Teacher and Technical Director because it represents a return to art and education that inspired me many years ago: creating meaningful, hands-on theatrical experiences with students at the center. I’m passionate about using technical theatre as both a creative outlet and a platform for educational leadership, helping students build not only practical skills but also confidence, collaboration and creative problem-solving. What inspires me most is the chance to work alongside students as they bring their unique ideas to life, guiding them through the process of turning imagination into reality while fostering a culture of curiosity, craftsmanship and artistic exploration.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Curiosity. What Ted Lasso popularized as ‘Be curious, not judgmental’ — often misattributed to Walt Whitman — is a mindset I deeply value in both education and leadership. In an era where information is instantly accessible, and increasingly accelerated by advancements in AI, it is not access to knowledge that sets individuals apart, but rather the willingness to ask questions, explore deeply and remain open to learning. Those who embrace curiosity become lifelong learners and more thoughtful, effective leaders.
“For me, the most inspiring part of education is witnessing students grow beyond the familiar, stepping out of the shadow of their families and local communities and into a broader, more complex world. Watching them develop their own perspectives, confidence and sense of purpose gives me a profound sense of hope for the future.”
The last book I read: Rivers of London series by Ben Aaronovitch and The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
My song of the summer: “I have a toddler, and the only music I am currently listening to is the one he picks, so… ‘Wheels on the Bus.’”
Best show on streaming right now: The Office
My favorite obsession: “Currently, The Museum of Life and Science. I am there basically every weekend with my son.”
My favorite memory in education: “The moment that I realized I could make a stronger impact on teaching through theatre.”
My greatest day of teaching: “A day of presentations for a show we were working on, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The level of depth that each group went into and then explained was incredible.”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: “Coffee shops that were more about hanging out and connecting, as opposed to fast interactions about getting a daily dose of caffeine.”
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: “If I could leave one piece of technology behind, it would be algorithm-driven social media feeds. While they’re designed for engagement, they often narrow perspectives rather than expand them. In education especially, I value curiosity, exploration and independent thinking — things that are sometimes limited when content is curated for us instead of discovered by us.”
More about me: “I would also highlight that my professional background spans both education and large-scale theatrical and event production, which has given me a unique perspective on teaching technical theatre as both an art form and a highly collaborative, real-world discipline. I bring a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, safety and process, while also encouraging students to think creatively and take ownership of their work.
“On a personal level, I am deeply motivated by working with students during a formative time in their lives, helping them discover their voice, build confidence and develop skills that extend far beyond the stage. I value curiosity, collaboration and continuous learning, and I strive to create an environment where students feel empowered to explore ideas, take risks and grow. I’m especially inspired by the opportunity to be part of a community like Durham Academy that supports both artistic exploration and holistic student development.”
Athletics
Ryne Linsley
Varsity Boys Lacrosse Head Coach, Upper School Testing and Assessment Coordinator, Athletics Partnerships Coordinator
Education: • Auburn University, B.S. in General Social Science Education
• Clemson University, M.S. in Athletic Leadership
Previously: Boys Lacrosse Head Coach and Director of Corporate and Leadership Giving, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I chose DA because it provides a great, warm, welcoming environment for me and my family! We have been blown away by the hospitality and open arms with which we have been received so far. Additionally, the opportunity to join a school environment that is preparing our students to join the 21st century world with unrivaled readiness appeals to us!”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Responsibility is my favorite trait because, in my opinion, it encapsulates so many of them that are on the list. We all have a responsibility to empathize with others, be kind, operate with integrity, approach the world with courage, be curious, etc.! I also see it as our primary function as men and women in the world to be responsible for yourself so that you can care for others.”
The last book I read: “I'll pivot here a bit: I have spent a lot of time in the car this summer and have gotten caught up in the podcast world. I've been diving deep into the ‘Deep Cover’ podcast that follows people who have been caught leading ‘double lives.’”
My song of the summer: “Ella Langley is my artist of the summer because it's someone that my daughter and I sing along to in the car together as we have been traveling all over the East Coast this summer.”
Best show on streaming right now: “It’s got to be the World Cup this summer!”
My favorite obsession: “Lacrosse is my obsession — if you can’t find me, I’m probably on a field somewhere!”
My favorite memory in education: “It's hard to pick just one, but I think every educator treasures the ‘light bulb moment’ — the moment when things click for a student or an athlete after struggling with a concept, when it dawns on them they ‘get it’ or can execute something new!”
My greatest day of teaching: “Whenever my students or athletes come back and say they felt prepared and confident in themselves because of the work we did together. When recent graduates come back from their first semester or year of college and say they felt prepared for college academics or athletics because of the investment we made together — or Advanced Placement students coming out of the exam with great confidence — are always great days!”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: “Tropical Mango Powerade — it's hard to find and has always been my go-to after a long day in the sun during summer camps.
“I also have to shout out the Talkboy from Home Alone 2. I got one for Christmas when I was a kid and it was one of my prized possessions as an 8 year old!”
One piece of technology I wish I could leave behind: “DVDs: I have hundreds of movies on DVD and have no use for them anymore because they're all available at a click now!”
More about me: “I am a family-first thinker, and our family’s move to the Durham area was at first a difficult decision. But when we reminded ourselves that our decision-making lens is ‘what is best for our children,’ it became a very easy choice for us!”
Zac Schner
Athletics Trainer
Education: • High Point University, B.S. in Kinesiology and Exercise Science
• High Point University, M.S. in Athletic Training/Trainer
Previously: Athletic Trainer, Cary Orthopaedics and Spine
Why I chose Durham Academy: “Growing up in the independent school setting myself in Greensboro, I know the level of commitment that a school like Durham Academy brings to its students and student-athletes. I’m extremely excited to join not only an institution that cares for students, but also excels as a close-knit community that helps students, faculty and staff become better people and grow professionally.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Curiosity. It feels like forever ago that I had the Ted Lasso quote “Be curious, not judgmental” as my phone home screen — a daily reminder that curiosity leads to learning, which leads to growth. Curiosity is the bedrock of a growth mindset, which I believe is crucial in the world we live in today.”
My song of the summer: “‘Man I Need’ by Olivia Dean or ‘God Went Crazy’ by Teddy Swims, both of which played a huge role in my recent wedding this summer.”
My favorite obsession: “Gardening. I grew up with a family vegetable garden that helped keep fresh, delicious food on the table for my family, and I’ve carried that tradition into my new growing family. From peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and sugar snap peas to blueberries and strawberries and just about every herb possible — I’ve got a green thumb. It even extends indoors, where my wife and I have over 25 indoor house plants — and the number is growing! It’s also great practice in delayed gratification, and a great way to get outside.”
My favorite moment in education: “Finding my passion for athletic training while still in high school, I was able to petition the school to start an independent study in deeper reasoning within athletic training. I got to do deep dives into body kinematics, physiology, and understanding of human anatomy and structure that reaffirmed my drive for this line of work. They allowed me to pursue a passion and learn more about a career that made me feel fulfilled. I hope to be able to share that with Durham Academy students.”
Max Wilde
Strength & Conditioning Coordinator
Education: University of Nebraska-Lincoln, B.S. in Psychology
Previously: • Certified Personal Trainer, O2 Fitness Clubs (Durham)
• Middle School Assistant Track Coach, Durham Academy
Why I chose Durham Academy: “I chose Durham Academy because it gave me the chance to work directly with the sports teams and make a real impact on the student-athletes. Health and fitness are what I'm most passionate about, and helping athletes get stronger and perform their best is genuinely what I love to do. On top of that, DA's community is something special — I'm excited to keep building relationships with the students, coaches, and staff I get to work alongside.”
My most valued DA graduate character trait: “Resilience. The athletes who improve most aren't the ones who never struggle; they're the ones who keep showing up after a hard day. That's the trait I most want to help our student-athletes build, on and off the field.”
Best show on streaming: Game of Thrones
My favorite obsession: “Running. I've kept a daily run streak alive for over three years and I'm currently building toward the Chicago Marathon. The discipline of showing up every single day — good weather or bad, motivated or not — is the same mindset I try to pass on to the athletes I coach.”
One discontinued item I wish were still available: McDonald’s Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
Same Faces, New Spaces
A familiar name has taken on a new role in Athletics.
Bria Irizarry, Associate Athletic Director Irizarry previously served as Assistant Athletic Director. She also serves as Assistant Director of Enrollment Management and the Varsity Girls Lacrosse Head Coach.
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.
