By: Chloe Spradley

As we are going into this upcoming school year, Riverdale Academy would like to welcome Dr. Hunter Brown to his new position as principal! Dr. Brown has been teaching high school science for 14 years, and fine arts for 10 years. He has also been teaching English to Chinese students online for 3 years. I asked Dr. Brown what inspired him to accept this new role, and this is what he had to say: “Riverdale is a part of my DNA. I attended school at RA K-12 (class of ’87). My dad was on the first board, my brother was rumored to be one of the first students enrolled in the school, and my aunt, Wanda Simpson, was the school’s secretary from 1970 – 2010. I feel a certain duty to honor and protect the sacrifices and investments that they have made. Now, after 14 years in the classroom, I am invested.”

 Dr. Brown never planned on becoming principal, until he attended the Administrators Conference for a free trip to the beach. The conference itself was inspiring, meeting and speaking with other administrators who love what they do and receiving encouragement from them to pursue the position of administrator. He says “I prayed and felt that God had opened a door for me, and it never closed. I’m excited about the new challenges that being a principal will bring. Everyone has been so encouraging and supportive of my decision. God has moved me from my comfort zone in the classroom into what I feel is a greater place of service.” 

I also asked Dr. Brown what were some things he looked forward to improving or changing this upcoming school year, and he had some great thoughts: “I look back at some of the tremendous leaders Riverdale has had, and I feel that I will continue to build on the foundation that has already been laid; so I prefer the words “improve upon,” rather than “change,” although I am not opposed to change where it is needed. I’m seeking to create a community in which we can all take pride. I’m backed by a stellar faculty and staff. I plan to have meetings with teachers regularly, by grade levels, to closely monitor what is working, what is not working, and what we can approve. I want my teachers to have an environment where they feel supported and love to teach. I plan on developing student  leaders, so the students feel invested in their school; for example, students leading in the daily prayer, pledge, and reading the scripture of the week. It’s going to be an adventure, but I’m up for the challenge! I’m inviting all who will, to join me on this journey.”

Congratulations, Dr. Brown! Everyone is so happy for you, and we can’t wait to watch you take on this new adventure, and cheer you on along the way!

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