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New Faculty Spotlight: Vanessa Yearick
Yearick

Vanessa Yearick begins in 2020-21 as a Middle School History Teacher and Assistant Director in the Literacy Fellows program. She will also coach track and field.

Academic background:
J.D., University of Pennsylvania Law School
B.A., University of Pennsylvania

Additional experience:
Mrs. Yearick is a 13-year independent school student, having graduated from Berkeley Prep in Tampa, Florida. She earned her bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics with a minor in Hispanic studies and then continued her legal studies at the University of Pennsylvania, earning her Juris Doctor from the University’s Law School. She practiced law in New York City as a corporate finance associate. In 2015, she moved to this area to work at a local law firm, where she eventually became partner. In 2019, she was selected to Inside Business’ Top Forty Under 40 as an honoree – a ranking of the area’s best leaders, innovators, volunteers, and high achievers under the age of 40. She has decided to turn her career focus to education to fulfill her passion for developing young people, and for the study of history. She will serve as Assistant Director in the Literacy Fellows program, as a Middle School history teacher, and as a track coach.

Tell us why you wanted to become an educator:
I wanted to do work that excites me, that I feel passionate about, and that connects me to others in a meaningful way. Being an educator is a special opportunity to continue to learn and grow individually while influencing and encouraging our next generation of leaders and thinkers.

What most excites you about working at Norfolk Academy? 
The people – the students, faculty, and staff – and the work that I get to do. I truly appreciate the professionalism, excellence, and gratitude that everyone brings to their work here.

Norfolk Academy is unique because… 
There is an incredible sense of community and pride that those connected to the school, past and present, feel.

Last book read: 
The Other Wes Moore, by Wes Moore. This is a powerful and memorable book. I look forward to discussing it with the Literacy Fellows this year.

What do you like to do in your own time/when you’re not working? 
Anything outdoors, especially with family and friends. I love to run, practice yoga, spend time at the beach, ride bikes, and hike. I also enjoy gardening but am a novice!

Favorite food? 
A cheese plate!

A movie is being made about your life. Who would they cast to play you? 
Kerry Washington

Fun fact your students might find surprising:
My husband and I are on a mission to travel to all of the U.S. National Parks with our two boys. There were 59 when we started, but now there are 62. We have been to seven so far and have enjoyed them and our time together!

“When I grow up, I want to be…” 
What I am doing now, hopefully, just better!

Vanessa Yearick teaches Middle School History and is an Assistant Director in the Literacy Fellows program.

Vanessa Yearick teaches Middle School History and is an Assistant Director in the Literacy Fellows program.

Vanessa Yearick with her family.

Vanessa Yearick with her family.

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