About

Equity and Inclusion

Many Voices, One Purpose

Newark Academy seeks and celebrates diversity in its faculty, staff, and student body. In admissions and employment practices, scholarship aid and educational programs, Newark Academy upholds applicable state and federal laws and regulations prohibiting unlawful discrimination.

Newark Academy is a diverse community composed of exceptional students, faculty, and staff dedicated to intentional engagement with differing experiences and a global perspective that empowers students to develop a depth of character, innovative thinking, and commitment to equity and inclusion.

Newark Academy will cultivate a diverse school community where all members are welcomed, respected, valued, and celebrated. We are committed to our responsibility for fostering and maintaining a caring and inclusive community that thrives on intellectual, social, and emotional interactions across differences. Members of the Newark Academy community are encouraged to build trusting relationships with one another grounded in kindness and empathy. Through intentional, active, and ongoing engagement of multiple voices, we strive to create an equitable environment where all members can have a sense of belonging to learn and grow as citizens of the world.

Office of Equity and Inclusion Staff

List of 7 members.

  • Photo of Rochelle Edwards

    Rochelle Edwards 

    Director of Equity & Inclusion
  • Photo of James Coe

    James Coe Jr. 

    Dean, Class of 2022, Upper School E&I Coordinator
  • Photo of Kristin Duszak Russo

    Kristin Duszak Russo 

    Associate Director of Upper School Student Life, Upper School E&I Coordinator, Biology Teacher
  • Photo of Callie Prince

    Callie Prince 

    Dean, Class of 2026, Upper School E&I Coordinator
  • Photo of Hernando Santamaria

    Hernando Santamaria 

    NA Faculty, Boys' Varsity Soccer Head Coach, Middle School E&I Coordinator, Director of NA Athletic Camps
  • Photo of Melissa Sarmiento

    Melissa Sarmiento 

    Humanities Faculty, Upper School E&I Coordinator
  • Photo of Samantha Wilkerson

    Samantha Wilkerson 

    Social and Emotional Learning Specialist, Middle School E&I Coordinator
Reimagining rigor for students in grades 6-12