Faculty & Staff Directory

Alex is an educator, writer, and theatre artist. He has worked for schools and nonprofits across the US, including: Longwood University, St. John’s School, The Santa Fe Opera, Alley Theatre, Illinois Shakespeare Festival, VSA Texas, and others. He is the author of over 100 published works, including: articles, plays, poetry, comic books, short stories, and creative nonfiction. His plays have been produced in the United States, Canada, and England, and he is the founder of the 0-to-60 Ten-Minute Play Festival.

Education:

• M.A., English-Longwood University
• B.F.A., Theatre Technology-Longwood University

Education:

• B.S. Aeronautical Management Technology – Arizona State University

Amy joined the Randolph-Macon Academy team in the summer of 2004. She has loved working in the admission department and meeting new families to share great success stories that she has witnessed throughout her time at R-MA. Amy oversees the Upper School admissions process

Amy has personally welcomed hundreds of students to R-MA. She also works with families throughout the financial aid process, counseling them with accurate options and expectations. Her years of experience also includes assisting high performing students of the Falcon Foundation.

Her husband, Andy,  is an alumnus of R-MA and an R-MA social studies teacher.

• R-MA Mentor
• Yellow Jackets Football Announcer

Education:

• B.S., Towson University

An R-MA graduate, Andy (’82) returned to “The Hill” in 2004 and served as a Middle School Social Studies teacher and a dorm counselor. In 2005, he made the switch to the Upper School and has taught Modern World History, US Government, and 20th Century Warfare. In addition, Andy has coached several sports at R-MA and is currently the head swim coach and assistant girls’ soccer coach.

His family has its roots in New England, but Andy was born in Okinawa, Japan and was raised in Southeast Asia. He traveled the world extensively throughout his childhood; living in Japan, The Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. After high school, he spent a couple of years studying history in Athens, Greece while attending the American College of Greece before returning to the US to complete his academic studies. Andy lives on campus with his wife, Amy Harriman (R-MA’s Director of Admissions & Financial Aid) and their son, Campbell.

• R-MA Class of 1982
• R-MA Mentor
• National Social Studies Honor Society Advisor
• Freshman Team Co-Advisor
• Yellow Jackets Varsity Football Announcer
• “Mandatory Fun” band member
• Head Coach Swimming
• Assistant Coach Girls Soccer

Education:

• B.A., History-Keene State College

Awards:

• 2014: United Methodist Church Exemplary Teaching Award
• 2013: R-MA Faculty of the Year
• 2010: R-MA Mentor of the Year

Ben Coffman, is a successful and lifelong residential property manager, teacher and coach of students. Director and Head Coach of the Kentucky Warriors Basketball Club since 2010. Since 1995 Ben has been a residential property owner, developer and manager. 

Through Ben’s long term teaching, property management and coaching experience along with his college education he has become very skilled at all aspects of property management and student teaching, mentoring and leadership

Ben earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Trevecca University in Nashville, TN, was a Division 1 college basketball player and is a veteran of the US Army.

Ben’s passion is working with, mentoring and leading students and student athletes along with teaching them life lessons so they can be all they can be in school and as citizens for a lifetime. 

Ben has worked and lived on four continents, numerous countries and states and has always worked well with diverse groups of people.

Education:

• B.S., Psychology-Trevecca University

New to RMA as the Athletic Trainer. Originally from Central NY, Bethany was an Athletic Trainer for high schools in Alabama for the last year and a half. Bethany is the second of three children and had grown up playing sports from youth through College before pursuing her Masters Degree to be an Athletic Trainer. She lives with her husband and pet bearded dragon and enjoys playing sports, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

Education:

• M.S. Athletic Training – Daemen College
• B.S. Human Performance and Health Promotion – Morrisville State College
• A.S. Sports Nutrition and Fitness Management – Morrisville State College

Bonnie was born and raised in Clark County and her family moved to Warren County during her high school years. She then attended Lord Fairfax Community College specializing in home hospice care.

After 18 years working for a local retirement home community, Bonnie joined R-MA has the Housekeeping Supervisor in 2012.

Brian is a former Entertainment Executive, CEO, Award-winning film-maker, writer and journalist with a proven track record of successes in developing creative strategies for major television networks and studios. Brian’s history of leading media organizations with operational and strategic planning responsibility led to the production and distribution of a diverse portfolio of successful film, television and digital content distributed worldwide. While Brian’s career highlights include senior staff positions with major television networks, and leading several major market creative services firms, his most significant personal accomplishment has been mentoring a long list of successful media executives who began their careers under his leadership. In 2007, while working as a senior executive at Discovery Communications Brian began his pioneering efforts in the use of drones for the collection of aerial imagery for television and film. Two years later he launched one of the first companies in The United States to receive an FAA exemption for the commercial use of drones for television and film production. Brian leveraged his company’s “first-in” position in commercial UAS services into multiple vertical markets including construction, emergency response management, agriculture and UAS flight training. In 2016, Brian launched National Drone Services — a UAS services company and training facility offering a broad curriculum of creative and industrial drone training. Today, Brian is the Director of The Unmanned Systems Lab at Randolph-Macon Academy where he applies a lifetime of personal and professional experience to the challenges of shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Brittany Szczepanik is a Second Lieutenant in the US Air Force. She is the Randolph-Macon Academy Falcon Scholar Officer in Charge. As a distinguished graduate from the Virginia Military Institute Brittany commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force.  She will obtain her Private Pilot’s License here at R-MA before heading off to Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma for Undergraduate Pilot Training.

Brittany is a Certified Associate in Project Management, Lean Six Sigma White Belt, American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor and a National Strength and Conditioning Association Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator. Her hobbies include running, swimming, biking and riding horses. In addition, she really enjoys spending time outside, learning new things and helping others.

Education:

• B.S., Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concentrations in Environmental Engineering, Transportation Planning and Design, and Construction Management-Virginia Military Institute
• A.A., General Studies-Pennsylvania Highlands Community College

Chad arrived at R-MA in 2017 to teach Chemistry and AP Chemistry with a background in nanosurfaces, kinetics and statistical, experimental design. Jessica, his wife of 25+ years, and he have two children, a son attending UVA and a daughter about to finish high school. He enjoys joining his family in whitewater rafting, canoeing and hiking adventures and traveling across the globe to see the world. He tinkers and builds in his spare time, which has led to the start of a Do-It-Yourself workshop at R-MA.

• R-MA Mentor

Education:

• Ph.D. Chemical Engineering-Virginia Polytechnic and State University
• M.S. Chemical Engineering-West Virginia University
• B.S. Chemical Engineering-West Virginia University

Charles has taught Physics and Mathematics since 1996. He began his teaching career in the public school system, and moved to private school upon his arrival in Virginia in 2010. He joined the R-MA team in 2018, and has taught at both the Upper and Middle Schools. His baseball experience in college supports him in coaching, and he enjoys being available for tutoring in the evenings. Charles lives with his wife and family in Woodstock, VA.

• R-MA Mentor
• Varsity Baseball Head Coach

Education:

• M.Ed., Educational Leadership-Regent University
• B.S., Physics-Frostburg State University

Chris Peter earned his B.S. in history from Shenandoah University, has a National Advanced Goalkeeping Diploma from the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA), and a Virginia State “E” and “F” coaching license. Mr. Peter is the Assistant Principal at the Middle School, teaches world history and global quest and coaches the boy’s varsity soccer team. When he’s not telling stories to inspire a love of history or on the soccer field coaching, he might be fishing, hiking, biking, or spending time with his wife, Katherine Debord-Peter and their young daughters, Charlotte and Maggie.

• R-MA Mentor
• Head Coach: Middle School Boys Soccer

Education:

• B.S. Shenandoah University

Christine Bennett came to R-MA in 1997. Her experience in the Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller has enabled her to handle multiple projects and schedules for a variety of constituents. In the R-MA Academics Department, Christine coordinates the inner workings of the Academic Office and communication among many academy offices.  She is the first smiling face that students and families see when they visit.  If anyone has questions Christine is the go to person on R-MA institutional knowledge.

Christine is the parent of a 2008 graduate and now the grandmother of a handsome boy and beautiful girl who will hopefully one day join her at R-MA.  

Bio

Education:

• B.S., Camping, Recreation and Youth Ministries-Eastern Mennonite College

Connie came to R-MA in February, 2005. Connie’s primary responsibilities are as the R-MA Clinical Counselor, as well as serving as the contact point for the Academy’s Care Team. Her primary area of focus in providing mental health therapy has been working with children and adolescents. Connie is a licensed clinical social worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and also enjoys teaching.  She teaches one section of AP Psychology and R-MA and is an adjunct instructor at Shenandoah University, where she teaches General Psychology and Abnormal Psychology. Additionally, she also has a small private practice in Front Royal. Connie has been married to her husband, John, for 25+ years, and has two wonderful children. She takes advantage of the area and its beauty by enjoying hiking, gardening, and just being outdoors. Now that her children are grown, she enjoys quiet evenings at home reading and spending time with her husband and animals.

Education:

• Ph.D., General Psychology-Walden University
• M.S.W.-Virginia Commonwealth University
• B.A., Psychology-George Mason University

Corinna was born and raised in Berlin, Germany. After working in the travel industry for over 20 years, she moved to the United States to marry her husband Larry in 2012.  Shortly after the wedding, she and Larry came to R-MA. Corinna has been the Weekend Student Services Supervisor since 2014 and also serves as a substitute teacher, an Advanced Placement test proctor and tutor in German language.

Education:

• OSZ in Wirtschaft und Verwaltung (Germany)

Cynthia came to R-MA in the fall of 1993 from Dayton, Ohio. As a proud Buckeye, she has spent the majority of her time in Virginia trying to figure out why snow is such a big deal here. Cynthia has been a teacher in the Mathematics department serving as the Department Chair in addition to teaching Algebra and Geometry. In her time at R-MA, she coached the swim team for 18 years and served as an assistant coach in nearly every team for girls. She has served as a sponsor for the Honor Council, National Junior Honor Society, National Honor Society  and Mu Alpha Theta, the Mathematics Honor Society. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, photography, reading, listening to music and visiting family and friends in Ohio.

• R-MA Mentor
• Freshman Team Co-Advisor
• Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society) Advisor

Education:

• M.S. Education – University of Dayton
• B.S. Education – Miami University

Awards:

• 2012, 2006: R-MA Mentor of the Quarter
• 2010: Northern Virginia Daily’s All Area Boys Swimming Coach
• 2009: R-MA Coach of the Year
• 2009: R-MA Coach of the Winter Season
• 2007:  Northern Shenandoah Valley Chapter’s Air Force Association Teacher of the Year
• 2004: R-MA Teacher of the 2nd Quarter
• 2002: R-MA Parents Association’s Teacher of the Year

Daniel Ricci joined R-MA’s Technology Department in 2020. Daniel has a wide variety of experience in the I.T. field, and enjoys using his knowledge and skills to solve problems and improve system efficiency and user experience. Outside of R-MA, Daniel takes care of his two rescue dogs  White German Shepherd named Jax and her puppy, Bowser. Daniel’s background also includes experience with safety and security, and he is an active volunteer with a local law enforcement agency.

Bio:

• Middle School Girls’ Volleyball Coach

Education:

• B.S., Excelsior University College
• A.A., University of Maryland University College

Dave English is a retired law enforcement officer, Army veteran and an R-MA alumnus from the class of 1989. Dave is from Virginia, but returned to R-MA, in 2018, to assist with the Baseball program. When the position of Director of Student Life was vacated, Dave jumped at the opportunity to return to R-MA full time. When asked about his background, Dave said, “Having a non-traditional resident life background has been a positive — Having a myriad of life experiences coupled with an understanding of unique challenges cadets face…having been a cadet before, is invaluable!”    

Dave’s investment in R-MA is deep as his father (class of 1960) and son (class of 2023) are tied to the legacy. 

Having played football and baseball in college, Dave continues to pass on the life lessons of teamwork, hard work, and commitment. Outside of R-MA, Dave has three teenage children, coaches travel baseball, is a private pilot, and an avid outdoorsman.    

Education:

• B.A., Criminal Intelligence-American Military University
• M.A., Management-American Public University System

Click here to learn more about R-MA’s President,
Brigadier General David C. Wesley, USAF, Retired. 

Derrick came to R-MA in 2008 after serving ten years as a history and geography teacher and Dean of Academics at Army and Navy Academy in Carlsbad, California. His education career, however, began at The University of Arizona College of Education where he served as an administrator for an inner-city outreach program.

Derrick earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History from The Ohio State University and a Master’s Degree in History from The University of Arizona. His professional affiliations are with the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development and the National Association for the Social Studies. He is also a member of and current president of the Front Royal Rotary Club.

He is married to Michelle Cantlebary, and they have two children, Grant (R-MA Class of 2024) and Elena.

• R-MA Mentor
• Head Coach: Golf

Education:

• M.A. The University of Arizona
• B.A. The Ohio State University

Don was born and raised in the Winchester area. He taught middle and high school instrumental music for 13 years, and spent 21 years as a public and private school administrator at the elementary, middle and high school levels. Don coaches Cross Country and Track & Field teams at R-MA – still running every day with each team! He enjoys drum and bugle corp competitions, long distance running, reading and is an avid golfer.

• R-MA Mentor
• Chess Club Sponsor
• Coach: Cross Country
• Coach: Track & Field

Education:

• Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Educational Administration-Virginia Tech
• M.M.E.-James Madison University
• B.M.E. with Performance Certificate-Shenandoah College and Conservatory of Music

Ed has served as Bandmaster at Randolph-Macon Academy for 42 years. A native of Williamsburg, Virginia, he came to the beautiful Shenandoah Valley to study music education at Shenandoah Conservatory of Music in Winchester, Virginia in 1973. He accepted the position of Bandmaster at R-MA in 1978. He has built an award-winning band program at R-MA which is noted for extensive performances and travel. Ed is a founder and co-director of the Front Royal-Warren County American Legion Community Band, Treasurer of the Military School Band Association and organizer of its annual Military School Band & Choir Festival.

• R-MA Mentor

Education:

• M.M.E. Shenandoah Conservatory (of Shenandoah University)
• B.M.E. Shenandoah College and Conservatory of Music

Awards:

• 2017: Staff Recognition Award
• 2009: R-MA Teacher of the Year at R-MA in 1985-1986 and 2009-2010
• 2009: R-MA Teacher of the 4th Quarter
• 2004: R-MAMentor of the Third Quarter
• 2000: The United Methodist Foundation for Christian Higher Education’s Outstanding Educator at R-MA by
• 1997: General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church’s Exemplary Teacher
• 1985: R-MA Teacher of the Year

Awards:

• 2011, 2007, 2003, 1993, 1992: C. Lyle McFall R-MA Coach of the Year Award
• 2007: Biltmore Who’s Who among Executives and Professional Men
• 2006, 2005: National Honor Roll Outstanding American Teachers
• 2006, 2005: Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers
• 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001: Delaney Athletic Conference’s Tennis Coach of the Year
• 1999: United Methodist Church’s Teacher of the Year

• R-MA Mentor

Bio:

Eunice brings more than 15 years of experience of Financial Management for private education institutions for both domestic and international families. She is passionate about meeting people and making meaningful connections, while helping people succeed to meet their goals. Eunice loves hanging out with family and friends, singing, listening to music, books, walking and of course watching Hallmark Movies!

Education

• M.B.A., Finance-Northeastern University
• B.S.. Business Administration/Accounting-United States International University-Africa

Bio:

Education:

• M.A University of South Carolina
• B.A. Maryland Institute College of Art

Frank has been at R-MA since 2007 where he has served as a coach, teacher, mentor. In 2009 he became the Athletic Director. He truly enjoys working with students within the athletic realm and seeks to help students reach their potential. Prior to joining the team at R-MA, Frank taught and coached at schools in New England and Florida. Frank has been married to his wife, Pamela, for 23 years and they have two children. When not working Frank enjoys spending time with his family.

• R-MA Mentor
• Head Coach: Varsity Football
• Head Coach: Varsity Wrestling

Education:

• B.S. Physical Education – University of South Florida

Originally from Louisville, KY, Holly came to R-MA fresh out of graduate school in 2018. Holly is a practicing artist with a national show record and has taught a range of students from elementary age to adults in both the traditional classroom setting and in visiting artist workshops. Holly currently teaches middle school and upper school Studio Art classes, as well as Yearbook and Graphic Design classes at the upper school. Outside of the classroom, Holly can be found working in their studio or hiking along the Appalachian Trail.

Education:

• M.F.A.-Indiana University, Bloomington
• B.F.A.-Western Kentucky University

John Vick was born and raised in Culpeper, Virginia, where he has lived throughout the majority of his life. John teaches U.S History, Civics, and Geography. One of the core tenets of his teaching philosophy is to teach each student as an individual and see them excel in their critical thinking skills. John emphasizes these tenets so students are challenged and enjoys what they bring to the classroom discussion. He enjoys spending time with his family including his four brothers, reading, and hiking.

Education:

• M.A., History-Liberty University

James Barbor is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and in Reflexive Performance Reset.  He enjoys working out, playing racquetball and his wife’s cooking. NHL and College football are his biggest passions.

Education:

• B.S., Exercise Sports and Science-Cumberland University

A New York native, James Taafel has lived in Virginia since 2001, when he attended R-MA. After graduating in 2005 as a proud alumnus, James then attended Dickinson College, where he graduated with a degree in Law and Policy. James has worked at the Academy since 2011, where he teaches English and a Sociology/Criminology elective. James coached Speech and Debate for many years, and is currently an enthusiastic coach for R-MA’s Cross Country and Track teams.

• R-MA Class of 2005
• Speech and Debate Coach
• International Club Advisor
• “Mandatory Fun” band member
• Assistant Coach: Track and Field
• Assistant Coach: Swimming

Education:

• B.A., Law and Policy-Dickinson College

Jenna Cilley grew up in a military family with three younger brothers. After training to become a youth pastor at Liberty University, she spent a year in England working for Tees Valley Youth for Christ. She joined the R-MA team as a CLS in August 2020 and loves serving and mentoring the upper school girls at Turner Hall. She also helps plan fun campus events and weekend field trips.

Education:

• B.S., Youth Ministry Christian Leadership-Liberty University

Jennifer Sweeney holds a bachelor’s in English Education, but has spent most of her working life as an editor and behavior modification specialist. She became interested in behaviors after her youngest son was diagnosed with autism. She is married with three children, two cats, a dog, and a grandcat. She has lived in far too many places to count, but thinks this part of Virginia is one of the most beautiful places she’s been. Her hobbies include reading, needlework, jewelry, and history.  She enjoys the energy and uniqueness of the middle-school aged kids, and looks forward to helping them grow and learn in this unique environment.

Bio:

Education:

• B.A. Tulane University

Education:

• M.Div.-Baptist Theological Seminary or Richmond
• B.S., Psychology-Virginia Commonwealth University
• A.A.-J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College

After graduating from the Air Force Academy, John’s work within the U.S. Air Force and the defense consulting sector comprised of over 30 years of operational and acquisition experience in Aerospace and Command & Control. He also served as an AFROTC Detachment Commander, training the next generation of Airmen while instructing college-level academics across a variety of disciplines. Over the last seven years, John has worked at R-MA as a teacher of AP Physics, Honors Physics, Programming, Astronomy, and GIS. He lives with Carri, his wife of 31 years, and is the father of three adult children, Jacob, Anna, and Ethan.

• Colonel, USAF (Ret.)
• R-MA Mentor
• Assistant Coach: Middle School Cross Country

Education:

• M.Ed., Secondary Science Education-George Washington University
  M.S., Rhetoric and Technical Communications-Michigan Technological University
  M.S., Aeronautics and Astronautics-Stanford University
  B.S., Astronautical Engineering / Engineering Sciences, USAF Academy

Bio:

• Assistant Coach: Varsity Football

Education:

• B.S. James Madison University

Awards:

Josh serves as the Chaplain and Religion Teacher at Randolph-Macon Academy since 2014. He grew up in Front Royal, and even competed against R-MA in high school. He helps the school live into its affiliation with the United Methodist Church as he is United Methodist clergy. Josh’s main goal is to support students on their spiritual journeys. Students can learn more about faith through the Spiritual Life @ R-MA program that includes chapel, Bible studies, small groups, Confirmation, interfaith prayer room, and mission trips.

Josh is also involved in many other ways on campus as he also loves coaching (JV Basketball, Varsity Boys Basketball, Varsity Girls Basketball & Middle School Soccer) and performed as Simba in the school play The Lion King, Jr. in 2018. His family is also very involved in campus as his wife Michelle has choreographed several of the school plays and his young boys (Julian, Orion, and Titus) love growing up in a place with such incredible students at Randolph-Macon Academy.

• R-MA Mentor
• Ignite (Middle School Bible Study)
• The Beacon (Upper School Bible Study)

Education:

• B.A. Religious Studies and Sociology – Randolph-Macon College
• M.Div. – Duke Divinity School

Bio: 

Education: 

• M.S. National University
• B.S. Ball State University

“I was born in Front Royal and has lived here all my life.”  

Karen Moxie is the Director  of Student Services and has worked at Randolph-Macon Academy for 42 years.  “R-MA is the only place I have ever worked.  I have loved working here and treasure all the friendships I have made to include everyone I have worked with, parents/guardians and of course all the students that I have worked with.” She loves watching sports and spending time with her family and dog, Brody 

Ke’Mogena enjoys investing in our youth and contributing to her community. She is a former Foster Parent, Big Sister, and advocate for low income-minorities and the biological mother to 3 and Stepmother to 5. She is a wife and a Grandmother of 1. She has resided in 7 different states and served in the Marine Corps.

Education:

• A.A.B.A.-American International University

Kenesa Haffer moved to Front Royal when she was 2 years old and has been living here ever since.  She has worked at R-MA for over 20 years. She initially worked in the Academics Office and moved over to Student Services in October of 2014. “I love spending time at the lake with my family and I love to read.  Fun fact – I am a HUGE Green Bay Packers fan!!”

Kevin began his teaching career in Berlin, Germany where he taught English as a Second Language for many years and pursued a graduate degree in Modern European History at Humboldt Universitaet. He also taught for half a year in Paris before returning to the U.S. to pursue a doctorate in French literature, where he also taught both French language classes and Western Civilization classes to undergrads while earning his degree. Kevin subsequently spent five years teaching high school French in North Carolina. He devotes his free time to music, books and movies.

Education:

• Ph.D. French Fiterature-New York University
• B.A. History-UMass, Amherst

For the past 17 years Kyle has been teaching the principles of science, technology and mathematics in many facets of the education system in secondary and higher education. An energetic and enthusiastic teacher, he encourages students to explore, connect, and apply what they are learning to the real world. Kyle is also passionate about athletics and getting students moving whenever possible. He has coached middle school boys basketball for the past two years, and he looks forwards to many more years of instructing middle schoolers on the fundamentals of basketball.

Outside of instructing and coaching, Kyle enjoys hiking, swimming, and going on adventures with his family. He and his wife take amateur trapeze classes together, and they love visiting theme parks whenever possible.

• R-MA Mentor
• Head Coach, Middle School Boys Basketball
• Head Coach, Intramural Golf

Education:

• M.Ed. Instructional Technology, Cambridge College
• B.S. Engineering Physics, Morgan State University
• Secondary Education Certification, Prince George’s Community College

Born and raised in Ohio and has been teaching at R-MA since 2011. His focus is in American History, Modern Europe and Latin American History and he specializes in military history, national security studies, and foreign policy. While in Ohio he taught at Bowling Green State University, University of Toledo and Rhodes State Community College. He was also a visiting professor at Grand Valley State University in Michigan and Clarion University in Pennsylvania. In October 2020 he retired as a Major after 22 years of service in the Army where he served on active duty, in The Ohio National Guard, and finishing in the Army Reserves. He and his wife Corinna both now reside in Front Royal, VA.

• Major, US Army (Ret.)
• R-MA Mentor

Education:

• Ph.D. History – Bowling Green State University
• M.A. History – Bowling Green State University
• M.A. Theater – University of Akron
• B.A. History and Theater – Baldwin-Wallace College

Lynette came to R-MA from Tennessee (via Wyoming and Savannah) in 2018. She brings 30+ years of teaching experience and a love of travel and hydroponic farming. She oversees the hydroponics farm and teaches science classes. Lynette has two doodle companions, Simon and Tucker, and all three enjoy traveling in a self-built camper van during the summer. The Western U.S. is their favorite destination. Lynette has a daughter in Richmond and has come to love Northwest Virginia. She now calls this part of the world “Home”.

• R-MA Mentor
• R-MA Hydroponics Lab

Education:

• M.S. Life Science – Louisiana Tech University
• B.S. Science Education (Biology/Physics) – Louisiana Tech University

Bio:

• Colonel, Brazilian Army (Ret.)

Education:

• M.S. Military Operations, Army Officers Advanced School
• M.S. Physical Education, International Education Evaluators, USA
• B.S. Military Science Academia Militar das Agulhas Negras, AMAN (Brazilian Army Academy)
• B.S. Physical Education, Brazilian Army Physical Education School
• Specialist (“Latu Sensu”) in International Relations, Candido Mendes University – Brazil

Maria Lee is from Woodville, VA, close to the beautiful Old Rag Mountain. She graduated from the University of Virginia in 2012 with a major in Literature, a minor in Philosophy, and her TESOL certification. She then moved to China and taught high school English at the Beijing Royal School for three years. In addition to teaching, she has also coached soccer, volleyball, and basketball. She loves to travel, and has currently been to over 30 countries worldwide.

Education:

• B.A.-University of Virginia

Martha is originally from New York. She completed a B.A. in English from Florida International University in 2012 and her M.A. in Spanish from Middlebury Language Schools in 2019. Her passions are literature, language, and all things related to the study of different cultures. She was an ESL teacher here in the U.S., South Korea, and Spain for several years before joining the R-MA team in August of 2020 as a Spanish Teacher.

Education:

• M.A. Spanish – Middlebury Language Schools
• B.A. English – Florida International University

Mary Gamache came to R-MA after serving on active duty with the Air National Guard for over 26 years. While in the ANG, Mary advised and provided technical expertise to the Air Surgeon’s staff and guidance to ANG Medical Units on staffing, training and organizational development. After serving two years as an Air Force JROTC instructor, the Richmond native moved to the position of R-MA’s College Counselor. As R-MA’s College Counselor, Mary has found her niche that combines a dream career with a well-developed talent; counseling students in regards to their college choices and future careers. “This is my joy. I love listening to students’ dreams and helping them discover their interests and talents and coaching them in achieving their goals.” In pursuit of making herself the best possible resource for R-MA students, Mary has visited more than 150 colleges. Her college counseling efforts with more than 500 students over the last decade have resulted in graduating classes with 100% acceptance and an average of $6 million in merit scholarships each year. In her free time, Mary enjoys traveling throughout the world and “glamping” in her Airstream trailer.

• Chief Master Sergeant, USAF (Ret.)
• R-MA Mentor

Education:

• M.S. Human Resources Training and Development – National Louis University
• B.S. in Organizational Management – Bluefield College

Mary hails from upstate New York. She moved to Virginia 13 years ago to coach lacrosse and teach. Since then, she has spent her time at various local private schools. In her free time, Mary enjoys spending time with friends and family, competing in long distance races, and quilting.

• R-MA Mentor
• Head Coach, Middle School Girls Basketball

Education:

• B.S., International Relations and East Asian Studies, Japanese Concentration-Connecticut College

Matthew Lusson has a love for taking care of others. As a Command Chief Master Sergeant at several military bases during his 25 year career, he was responsible for the readiness and well-being of thousands of military and civilian personnel and provided leadership, mentorship, and guidance to squadrons, managed assets worth billions of dollars, advocated for appropriate staffing levels, and supervised training. Part of the reason Matthew believes he has success in the classroom is his philosophy. “At the end of the day it’s about having fun,” he says with a smile. “It doesn’t mean you can’t be structured, it doesn’t mean you can’t be serious about what you’re teaching/learning, it’s about finding ways to have fun and for the students to embrace it.” When not in the classroom, Matthew can be found outdoors just enjoying nature, hiking, or playing sports. His wife Tiffani and he just celebrated 25 years of marriage this October. Their daughter is a Senior at the U.S. Air Force Academy, and their son is a Sophomore at Virginia Tech.

• Chief Master Sergeant, USAF (Ret.)
• R-MA Mentor
• Head Coach: Varsity Boys Basketball

Education:

• B.S., Professional Aeronautics-Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University A.A.S., Space Operations Technology-Community College of the Air Force A.A.S., Instructor of Technology and Military Science-Community College of the Air Force

Bio

A native New Yorker (born and raised in Bayside, Queens), Michael moved to Front Royal to take the Choral Director position at Randolph-Macon Academy in August 2010. Having studied music at Loyola College in Maryland and music education at New York University, Michael has found his musical niche at R-MA. In addition to teaching music and assisting in R-MA Spiritual Life, he is married and a father of four, an avid runner, and the lead guitarist/backup vocalist/keyboardist for the local cover band, Mandatory Fun.

• R-MA Mentor
• “Mandatory Fun” band member

Education:

• M.A. Music Education-New York University
• B.A. Concentration Music-Loyola University Maryland

Michael joined R-MA in 2020. He has taught a mixture of middle school and high school mathematics for the past 5 years. His teaching philosophy is to change the fixed mindset of students to a growth mindset. He believes that everyone has the ability to be a “math person.” Michael is a Les Mills certified group fitness instructor at Fitness Evolution here in Front Royal with advanced instructor status. He also has a background in high school theater, where he has been the assistant director and producer for three musicals and two one-act plays. Michael has a minor in Spanish and a goal of traveling to Spain and hiking the Camino de Santiago. He dotes on his dog, Kizzie, who has been with him since moving to Virginia from Pennsylvania in 2015.

Education:

• B.S.Ed., Secondary Mathematics Education-Indiana University of Pennsylvania Robert E. Cook Honors College Graduate

Mike Starling is a member of Randolph-Macon Academy’s class of 1988 and has returned to “The Hill” to join the Academy staff as the Chair of Leadership and Character Development. In March of 2019, he was promoted to his current position of Commandant of Cadets. 

After R-MA, Mike graduated from the Virginia Military Institute and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.  His service took him around the globe as he trained many men and women for a variety of missions as well as in character and leadership development. 

Mike’s interests include studying history and leadership development and playing all kinds of sports including hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and rugby.  Mike is blessed with a wife and three children.

• Lieutenant Colonel, USMC (Ret.)
• R-MA Class of 1988
• R-MA Mentor
• Track & Field Coach

Education:

• M.A.-Marine Corps University
• M.A.-Webster University
• B.A.-Virginia Military Institute

• Sergeant, Brazilian Army (Ret.)

Education:

• B.S., Nursing-Barra Mansa University, Brazil
• Licensed Practical Nurse-Vale do Mamore Technical College, Brazil

Bio:

Education:

Awards:

Pam was born, raised, and educated in Northern Virginia. She worked as an accountant for 24 years prior to joining the admissions team. Both of her children graduated from R-MA where she has worked for the last 25 years. She enjoys spending time with her family, ballet, theatre, reading, gardening, and listening to music. Her favorite part of working in admissions is watching the students she has worked with achieve both growth and success.

Pam has also personally welcomed over 350 international students from more than 20 countries to R-MA. She also has extensive experience with Middle School admissions, preparing families for success early in their child’s education for Upper School preparation and University matriculation.

Nurse Rebecca Crouse has been a nurse for 9 years. She has worked previously in the hospital setting as a staff nurse. Most recently at UVA Novant Health Prince William Medical Center on the Intermediate Critical Care unit. 

She is originally from Pennsylvania but moved to Front Royal in 2014. She loves the area and with two young children appreciates being able to work so close to home at a job that she enjoys. Having only joined the R-MA family September of 2020 she is looking forward to learning and growing with R-MA.

Education:

• B.S., Nursing Science-Fairmont State University
• AD., Dietary Management-Fairmont State Community College

Connection with the student is my goal.  I have worn many hats with a lifetime of experience.” Nurse Robin Laird has two girls that attended R-MA and feels very lucky to be here to pass it forward.  She has a farmette with horses, chickens, bunnies and dogs.  “They are my family now that my girls have flown the coop.”  She is interested in natural horsemanship.  She worked at Shenandoah University in the TV department doing graphics and animation, then produced the school’s “50 years in Winchester” documentary that was shown on WVPT.  From there she went on to manage Simply Local, a local TV channel in Shenandoah County.  While there she produced another video about three brothers who bicycled across the US and what it took to make the trip.  This also aired on WVPT.  “Now I farm, nurse, sing at my church and am looking for more adventures to set my mind to.”

Education:

• B.S., Nursing, Communication-Shenandoah University
• A.D., Nursing- Daytona State College

Ryan joined the R-MA Advancement Team in 2020. Born in New Jersey, he is the second oldest of four siblings. Prior to arriving on “The Hill,” Ryan spent four years attending Rutgers University, where he earned a degree in political science and pitched for the baseball team. During college, Ryan served as the Alumni Relations Coordinator for the Terrace Club at Princeton University. He also spent time at The Lawrenceville School assisting with reunions and alumni engagement. Today, he lives in Front Royal working as the Annual Fund Coordinator and coaches Varsity Baseball at R-MA.

Ryan is a flight instructor who has been part of the R-MA since 2006. He enjoys being involved in all aspects of aviation, most notably teaching students how to fly an airplane before most learn to drive a car. His favorite part of teaching at R-MA is seeing the excitement of each student who takes to the sky. When not flying or teaching Ryan enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife and two sons as well as unicycling, hiking and making things using a scroll saw.

• R-MA Mentor

Education:

• B.S. Aviation Flight Operations – Daniel Webster College

Sophia’s foundational study of the Arabic language was done in Sana’a, Yemen. After leaving Yemen, she moved to London, England to complete her first MA at the School of Oriental and African Studies. Her contact with the Arabic department at SOAS inspired her to want to teach Arabic as a foreign language. After SOAS, a few years, more travels through the Arab World and life’s twists and turns, Sophia committed herself to the field of education and becoming a teacher. This led her to completing an M.Ed in World Language Instruction at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. Today, she works remotely as part of a team with teachers in Egypt teaching students across the US, and beyond, Being a remote teacher, and working with students from a variety of backgrounds and schools, means that things are always exciting. She hopes students will visit Egypt soon!

Education:

• M.Ed., Teaching World Languages-Concordia College
• M.A., Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies-The School of Oriental and African Studies (London, U.K.)

Stephen was born in Cheshire, UK, to an English father and German mother. Annual visits with his German relatives led naturally to studying German at Aston University, UK with a year abroad at Universität Heidelberg, Germany. After working in Düsseldorf, Germany and Manchester, UK for several years, Stephen moved with his wife to Virginia in 1996 and started teaching at R-MA the following year. In addition to speaking German and French, he enjoys trying out new languages and immersing himself in different cultures, having traveled to nearly 50 countries across 4 continents. In addition to having a degree in psychology, he enjoys philosophy and spirituality, and leads clubs and seminars at R-MA on philosophy, mindfulness, and yoga.

• R-MA Mentor
• Varsity Boys Soccer Coach
• National German Honor Society Advisor

Education:

• Combined Honors B.S. in Honors German/Human Psychology-Aston University (United Kingdom)

Stephen Pederson joined the aerospace program at Randolph-Macon Academy in 2007 after retiring from the United States Air Force with over 30 years of military service. Stephen has a passion for space and appreciates the college-prep process as his his two sons navigated the college application environment. This experience helps bring personal level of understanding which are both illustrated while he teaches students. His efforts have been recognized by the Air Force earning him the Outstanding Instructor Award four times. Stephen is now the Uniform Sales Manager. He continues to support the Aerospace Department as the Cyber Patriot coach and substitute aerospace instructor.

• Master Sergeant, USAF (Ret.)
• R-MA Mentor
• CyberPatriot Coach
• Ham Radio Club Advisor

Education:

• M.S. Space Education – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
• B.S. Occupational Education – Wayland Baptist University

Awards:

• 2014, 2012, 2009: Air Force – Outstanding Instructor Award
• 2011: Air Force – Outstanding Instructor Award with Merit

Bio:

Education:

From Charleston, SC, Stephanie and her family moved to Arizona, then Washington, and finally landed in Front Royal, VA in 2009. Stephanie began her teaching career in the public school system, and moved to private school to pursue her passion for computer science and robotic design. Stephanie currently teaches middle and upper school students Computer Science and Robotics classes, as well as working in the Hydroponics Lab. Stephanie enjoys her weekends on the soccer fields watching her two daughters and interior design projects.

• R-MA Mentor
• Assistant Middle School Soccer Coach
• FIRST LEGO League Coach

Education:

• B.S., Computer Science-College of Charleston

Sung is a native of Boston, Massachusetts. He completed his undergraduate degree in Montreal, QC and has lived in Rhode Island, New Jersey and California before moving to Virginia. He has traveled extensively for international education and makes it his personal mission to try a Coca-Cola beverage in every country he visits (his favorite version is from South Africa).

Sung enjoys playing the cello and resides in Northern Virginia with his wife, Dahye, and 20-month old son, Bennett.

Education:

• B.M., McGill University

Originally growing up in southern New Hampshire, Taylor Vazquez and his family moved up and down the East Coast during his younger years. He graduated from Washington High School in Jefferson County, WV and is a graduate of Shepherd University (WV). He joined the R-MA faculty in the summer of 2019, teaching physical education (PE) and health at the Middle School. Taylor coaches varsity football, varsity basketball, and varsity baseball at R-MA. Outside coaching and teaching, he devotes his time to his wife, Michaela, and his charcoal Labrador, Harper. When he does have some downtime for himself, he tries to spend it on the golf course.

• R-MA Mentor
• Assistant Coach, Varsity Football
• Assistant Coach, Varsity Boys Basketball
• Assistant Coach, Varsity Baseball

Education:

• B.S. Shepherd University

Tina M. Laing has spent over 30 years serving the government in multiple facets including being active duty, serving in the California Air National Guard, a government contractor, a civil service employee as a Program Manager overseeing a $13.1 billion budget for all USAF Cyber portfolios, and as a dependent wife managing the homefront supporting her husband Charles who is a retired Lieutenant Colonel Space Operator. Tina’s longtime passion and experience of being on the USAF Honor Guard brought her to R-MA where she has served as the VA-091 Yellow Jackets Drill Team coach. Both her kids Kate ’23 and Zach ’27 are students at R-MA and love being a part of the Yellow Jackets student body.

• Technical Sergeant, USAF (Ret.)
• R-MA Mentor
• Honor Guard Advisor
• Drill Team
• Color Guard Coach

Education:

• M.B.A – University of Phoenix
• B.S. Organizational Management – University of LaVerne
• A.S. Information Management – Community College of the USAF

Tom Dahlinger is a native Virginian, an identical twin and a retired public education teacher with 31 years teaching and supervisory experiences. 

“I love the sports of basketball and softball and have been an umpire and referee for both over the past 20 years.  I love working with youth.”  

Tom is involved with the Hope Again Care center in Winchester, Virginia sponsored through the Winchester Church of God, as well as a member of the Gideons International.  “I try to mountain bike when I can, though aging is making it more and more difficult.”

Education:

• B.S., Early Elementary Education-George Mason University
• M.S.-Shenandoah University

A newer member of the Aviation faculty, Tom currently serves as a flight instructor with R-MA. He has experience working as a Senior Network Design Engineer at AT&T supporting the Federal Government Sector – primarily the Department of Justice. After serving four years active duty in the Air Force, Tom went to college at GMU and graduated with a degree in Spanish. His minor focus was pre-med. Knowing he was called to missionary aviation he joined Mission Aviation Fellowship www.maf.org and served with them for three years in Latin America, specifically Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua. Leveraging his understanding of packet radio he then began a career in network engineering working for multiple companies and the Department of Defense.

Tom also has experience with Aviation Adventures in Winchester and lives with his lovely wife, Aracely in Strasburg. His hobbies are writing, motorcycling, canoeing, camping, hunting and amateur radio. His relationship with Jesus is his most important focus and he finds it to fuel his love for those God brings across his path each day.

Education:

• M.B.A. candidate with International IT focus at Jack Welch Management Institute – Strayer University
• Graduate Advanced Studies Program – Moody Bible Institute
• B.A. Spanish – George Mason University

Tom was born and raised in New York. After serving in the United States Marines, he has enjoyed a life-long career in Arboriculture and Horticulture.

An outdoor enthusiast, recreational sailor and amateur beekeeper, Tom raised two children in Warren County. His oldest son graduated from Virginia Tech and teaches AP Chemistry. Hi daughter graduated with R-MA with Honors and is now enrolled at Virginia Tech.

Tony Ballard was born and raised in Upstate New York. He moved to Virginia in the fall of 2010 after being offered an elementary teaching position. Tony quickly realized how much he loved the Shenandoah Valley region and decided that he would make it his new home. He taught for five years in public education before taking the opportunity to teach at R-MA’s Middle School. While teaching, Tony received his certificate in Administration and Supervision from Shenandoah University. In 2017, he accepted the position of R-MA’s Middle School Principal. He resides in Strasburg, VA with his wife, Beth, and their daughter, Lincoln.

• R-MA Mentor

Education:

• Graduate Professional Studies Certificate in Administration and Supervision from Shenandoah University
• M.S. Ed., Walden University
• B.S., SUNY Oneonta
• A.A., Herkimer County Community College

Bio

Tracey was born and raised in Northern Wisconsin, growing up loving the summers on Lake Superior. After graduating from university, she spent the next several years living and teaching in South Korea and traveling the world. While she has settled nicely in teaching and leading in the independent school world, she still loves to travel when she can. Her love of reading and Netflix take up much of her free time as well as walking and hiking with her 3 punky dogs.

• R-MA Mentor

Education:

• M.S. Curriculum and Instruction-University of Wisconsin-Madison.
• B.S. Elementary Education-University of Wisconsin-Superior

A a born-and-bred Marylander, Valerie has worked in education and professional theatre from the mid-Atlantic to New York and New England, and just prior to joining R-MA in 2020, spent eight years as Theatre Director for The American School in Switzerland. She has also taught English and Theatre at Emma Willard School (New York) and Connelly School of the Holy Child (Maryland) and spent many happy years as a summer camp counselor for the Girl Scouts, Emerson College, and Washington Episcopal School. Professional theatre credits include Arena Stage, Washington Opera, and Folger Shakespeare. She is grateful every day for her husband, David Peters and son, Ben.

Education:

• M.A. Performing Arts (Dramatic Literature concentration) – Emerson College
• B.A. Drama and English w/ Secondary Education certification — SUNY Geneseo

Wendy Odden is the Senior Aerospace Science Instructor and oversees the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) at R-MA. Wendy went to Pennsylvania State University on an Air Force ROTC scholarship, majoring in Environmental Engineering. She served 30 years on active duty as a Bioenvironmental Engineer doing health risk assessment and preventive medicine. Her leadership roles varied and included program management and execution, command roles, Higher Headquarters staff, and Department Chair and Associate Dean at the School of Aerospace Medicine. Wendy retired from the Air Force in 2019, and settled in West Virginia, not too far from family in Washington DC area. She is married to Troy Odden.

• Colonel, USAF (Ret.)

Education:

• B.S. Environmental Engineering – Pennsylvania State University

Bio:

Education:

Awards: