Ani Hallowell
Subject: Biology and Chemistry
Sport: JV Field Hockey
Why did you choose to work at BB&N?
BB&N is a school I’ve had my eye on for a long time because I really have been inspired by the community. I’m looking forward to meeting a lot of new students and becoming a part of the community. On the day that I visited,
I met a lot of wonderful people, and I’m excited to be a part of it.
If students described you in three words, what would they be?
Enthusiastic, a little nerdy and kind.
High school superlative
Most likely to be a college athlete. Once three o’clock hit, I was fully in whatever sport I was playing at that moment. I played field hockey, lacrosse and a little bit of soccer.
Summer highlight
I did a camping trip out in Washington state with my sister, and we went to three different national parks — North Cascades, Mount Rainier and Olympic — and enjoyed being off the grid for a week and a half. You hear nature, and that’s it. No planes, trains or cars, and it’s just really peaceful.
Extra Credit +1
I’m one of five children, and we were all born within five years.
Bill Cummings
Subject: Woodworking, Art Gallery Coordinator
Why did you choose to work at BB&N?
I was lucky about two years ago when former Upper School Woodworking Teacher Anna Van Voorhis went on maternity leave, and I was hired as the long-term substitute. That’s how I was introduced to BB&N, and I just love the idea of working at the school, and I love working with older kids.
If students described you in three words, what would they be?
Nice, funny and a little bit of a dork.
High school superlative
The thing that would have described me best was I was a good friend.
Summer highlight
I went on a canoe camping trip with my adult nephews and dog. We went deep into the Adirondack State Park and really got into the wilderness.
Extra Credit +1
I love canoe camping and could talk about it endlessly.
Abby Allen
Subject: Global History I and II
Why did you choose to work at BB&N?
I am coming from a job in Maine where I was a teaching fellow, so I taught part time and also worked on getting my master’s. I’m close to finishing it! I wanted a job that was more full time than that and that was closer to my family. And the school just seems really cool. I’m really excited for the regatta on the Charles.
If students described you in three words, what would they be?
Loud, funny and kooky.
High school superlative
I won most artistic in high school!
Summer highlight
My friend and I decided that we were going to enter baskets in the Bridgewater, Connecticut, County Fair, and so we had a sleepover where we wove baskets. There were four entries in the hobby craft division, and we both tied for third. We both got ribbons, but we came in last. It was so silly and so goofy.
Extra Credit +1
I shaved my head on Sept. 15 of last year for fun. I always wanted to experience it. I donated my hair to Wigs for Kids. They make wigs for kids who are suffering through cancer or alopecia, and they’re cost-free for the recipient.
Virginia Heinsen (Teaching Fellow)
Subject: Precalculus (Advanced)
Sport: Rock Climbing
Why did you choose to work at BB&N?
A close friend of mine worked at BB&N a few years ago and loved it, so I thought I should apply! I can’t wait to connect with BB&N’s students, both in and out of the classroom.
If students described you in three words, what would they be?
Kind, creative and enthusiastic.
High school superlative
My school didn’t have superlatives, but I loved art and took many drawing and painting classes. I would have been honored to share the title of “most artistic” with my very talented friends.
Summer highlight
A beautiful mountain hike with my family in Switzerland (where my photo was taken).
Extra Credit +1
I collect candy wrappers from one of my best friends. We began the tradition this past year: Every time she sees me, she gives me a caramel from her grandmother, and I save the wrapper. They’ve made their way into my phone case, purse, drawers, books … They’re everywhere!
Emma Grayeb (Teaching Fellow)
Subject: Global History
Why did you choose to work at BB&N?
I was naturally drawn to BB&N because my core values are very similar to BB&N’s, particularly curiosity and inquiry. Those are really big traits that have shaped me throughout my life, and that’s why I’m going to be teaching history. I love that aspect of investigating the past. During my interview, I was exposed to the school community a little bit. I had lunch in the cafeteria with some of the teachers, for example, which brought me right back to high school. I’m excited about just getting to know everyone better because everyone seems very kind and passionate.
If students described you in three words, what would they be?
Curious, empathetic and enthusiastic.
High school superlative
I was a very driven, studious person in high school. I don’t know what the superlative would be for that, but I loved history classes.
Summer highlight
I went to Cape Cod. I love being by the beach and ocean, so that was a really nice, relaxing vacation.
Extra Credit +1
I studied abroad in Scotland.