New Faculty Members 2026 | News | Portsmouth Abbey School, Rhode Island

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Welcoming New Faculty to the Abbey

This summer, we welcomed eight new faculty and staff members to Portsmouth Abbey School! Hailing from across the United States, our newest members of the Abbey community will be joining us in the classroom, administration and beyond. With diverse backgrounds and experiences spanning the arts, athletics, education and more, they bring fresh perspectives and plenty of excitement to campus. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have them join us!

	Isaac Anderson Isaac holds a B.A. in English with a minor in Italian Studies from Colby College and an M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from George Washington University, bringing specialized expertise in literacy education to our classrooms. His passion for the boarding school environment was sparked during his own high school days at St. Paul's School, making his arrival at Portsmouth Abbey School a true full-circle moment. This year, he balances his instructional dedication with athletic leadership as our Head JV Football Coach, drawing from his background as a former NCAA Division III varsity player. Outside of teaching, Mr. Anderson is a passionate writer who stays active.
	Noah Denzer Noah joins us to direct the Chamber Music ensembles this fall. He is a familiar face in the Rhode Island music community, having earned his B.A.S. from Salve Regina University and an M.M. from the University of Rhode Island before teaching at schools like St. George’s and assisting the Newport Festival Foundation’s free lesson program. An active songwriter and producer, he infuses real-world industry experience directly into his contemporary music classes. Off-campus, he records original tracks under the name “Skyland.”
	Brenda Freedman Brenda Freedman arrives at Portsmouth Abbey with extensive experience in middle school and science education, having taught in Louisiana and California. She holds a B.A. in political science with a minor in environmental science and a MSc in science education, both from Colorado State University. Her experience also includes serving as a Learning Skills Tutor at the Naval Academy Preparatory School. Drawn to Portsmouth Abbey’s emphasis on community and joy, Mrs. Freedman sees teaching as an opportunity to serve others while helping young people discover the joy of learning. Outside the classroom, she enjoys competing in triathlons, open water swimming and spending time at the playground with her son.
	jackson Lalonde Jackson joins the Office of Admissions with a background spanning psychology, athletics and youth development. He earned a B.A. in psychology from St. Lawrence University and an M.A. in athletic leadership from Springfield College. His experience in logistical coordination, community outreach and student mentorship with regional athletic organizations will support his work guiding families through the enrollment process and introducing them to life at Portsmouth Abbey. Mr. Lalonde will also serve as Head Boys’ Lacrosse Coach, bringing collegiate experience as an Academic All-Conference honoree and coaching experience that includes recognition as a member of the 2025 NEWMAC Coaching Staff of the Year.
	Colleen Menoher Colleen comes to Portsmouth Abbey School as the Communications Assistant, bringing a love of storytelling, history and the arts to the Office of Communications. She holds a B.A. in English literature from Christopher Newport University, where her interest in preserving stories and tradition grew through her work in the archives and special collections at the Chrysler Museum of Art. Her curiosity has taken her beyond the archives, too. While living in Scotland, she traveled through Scotland, England and Ireland, exploring historic sites and museums, developing a particular interest in the tradition of the Grand Tour. With this experience she earned her M.Sc. in Art History and Provenance Research at the University of Glasgow. She looks forward to capturing the people, traditions and everyday moments that make the Raven community special.
	Gina Cuccovia-Simoneau Gina Cuccovia-Simoneau is our new Director of Marketing and Communications, bringing a passion for creative design and connecting people to Portsmouth Abbey. She holds a B.S. in communications and media with a concentration in graphic design from Fitchburg State University and most recently served as Senior Director of Communications at Bishop Feehan High School. There she led communications efforts supporting fundraising, admissions, branding, digital media and print. A creative at heart, Mrs. Simoneau has also built a successful freelance design business working with a diverse range of clients to develop thoughtful marketing and visual identities. She looks forward to sharing the people, accomplishments and traditions that make the Raven community unique.
	Mackenzie Smith Mackenzie is a new Spanish teacher excited to be part of a community where learning and connection go hand in hand. She loves creating welcoming spaces where students feel comfortable being themselves, whether they’re practicing Spanish in the classroom or settling into their home-away-from-home. Ms. Smith holds a B.A. in health policy management and Spanish from Providence College. Her experience includes designing immersive language programs for young learners in Spain, directing YMCA summer youth programs and serving as head tour guide at Hill School.
	Cole Vandevanter Cole brings a fresh, analytical perspective and an energetic approach to his role as a coordinator in the Office of College Counseling. A recent graduate of Bucknell University, he holds a B.A. in economics and geography and has a background in geographic information systems, research and data analysis. As a university ambassador, he spent two years connecting with prospective students and families, helping make the college process more approachable and accessible. Outside of the office, Mr. Vandevanter is an avid athlete who enjoys following Boston sports. He looks forward to getting to know Abbey students and helping them navigate their college journey with confidence and excitement.

These new faculty members arrive with talents that span continents and disciplines, united by a dedication to teaching and to the mission of Portsmouth Abbey. Their presence reminds us that the Abbey is both rooted and renewing: a place where tradition is honored and fresh perspectives continue to shape the education of our students.