Although the group of new faculty is relatively small, this year's bunch brings lots of excitement and diverse interests. Eight new faces will liven up the math, science and language departments as well as the admissions and athletic offices.

First is Wilson Fellow Gloria Barrett. Ms. Barrett, who hails from North Carolina and who will teach A.P. Statistics, has been a reader of the A.P. Exam and a member on the committee developing both the course and exam. She has also published on a wide range of mathematical topics. She is a fan of pottery and basketball and is planning s'mores feeds for her Shumway girls.

Gillian Kneass, a graduate of Kenyon College, will also join the math department. She was a stellar varsity lacrosse player at Kenyon and will coach at Deerfield.

The language department welcomes both a new teacher and a new language. Maha Frieh, who loves loves jazz, Eminem, and yoga, comes from Egypt and will teach Arabic I. A graduate of Cairo University, she has been an interpreter and has worked with Public Television in Egypt.

In the science department, Bryan Bollinger will teach physics with mentor Ben Bakker. He graduated Dartmouth last year and rowed on their varsity heavyweight crew team. Also, Christy Garcia will teach chemistry as a teaching fellow. A graduate of Pomona College, she has traveled to Australia and Africa for research and humanitarian aid.

Phillip Blood, a graduate of Northeastern, and Rebecca Downing, a graduate of Colby College, will join the admissions staff. Also, Conan Leary, the new assistant director of student activities and athletic intern, graduated from Williams College and will teach some sections of English.