Familiar Faces in New Roles

This fall, Stuart Cushman and Jen Keppler tackle new roles at USM, utilizing their extensive experience in new and innovative ways.

STUART CUSHMAN

Director of Strategic Operations

Stuart Cushman has taken on a new role as the director of strategic operations. This position will partner with Head of School Steve Hancock on the execution of the school’s strategic plan. In addition, Cushman will supervise the Facilities, Auxiliary Programs, Nurse Clinic, and Security and Student Safety offices at USM. “While I will miss dearly my daily interactions with high school students and teachers, I am eager to start digging into new challenges and responsibilities,” said Cushman. “The school has tremendous opportunities to realize significant enhancements to our facilities. Additionally, we will be rolling out a new strategic direction that has exciting implications for teaching and learning. I am excited to help move these initiatives forward!”

Cushman came to USM in 2013 as the Upper School head, having previously worked at the Latin School of Chicago and the Greenhill School in Dallas. His broad understanding of the mission of independent schools, combined with his leadership style based on collaboration and clear communication of shared objectives, make him a natural fit for this new role.

JEN KEPPLER

Preschool Coordinator

Having taught in the Preschool since 1997, Jen Keppler is a familiar face to many students and families at USM. This fall, she’s taking on a new role outside of the classroom as Preschool coordinator. In addition to providing further support to the Preschool program at USM, this new role combines the best practices of preschool pedagogy and classroom instruction to help us meet the needs of USM’s youngest

learners. She will strengthen connections with students and families and also work to ensure USM’s Preschool is grounded in early childhood best practices.

“USM has been my home for 25 years and I am excited and honored to begin the next school year in a new role,” said Keppler. “I look forward to working alongside a fantastic, energetic, and creative group of educators to support learning, both within the classroom and beyond. Preschool is such a magical time for the children in our program, and I am thankful to be part of the journey!”