Staffing Update

Dear Harding Academy Learning Community,

I am writing this evening to announce that Jasmin Hopkins, Director of Community Engagement, has accepted the Director of Equity and Inclusion position at Harpeth Hall. Jasmin arrived at Harding Academy in 2019 as a second grade teacher after a number of years in public and charter schools throughout the city. She brought an energy and vitality to her classroom and led with the heart of an educator, making sure kids were always first. 

In 2021-22, Jasmin was appointed to the newly created role of Director of Community Engagement, which helps lead and shape the school’s approach to diversity, equity, and inclusivity and engaging our community in meaningful partnerships. Quickly, Jasmin established the Hawk’s Nest, which provided guidance, advice, curiosity and caring around how we build a culture where every member feels they belong and are celebrated. From her discussions around humanity over comfort and becoming and belonging to her work with the student diversity councils and 8th grade leadership teams, Jasmin impacted our school on many levels. 

As always, we are proud of our own when they are recognized as being a leader in their field and certainly Jasmin’s move to Harpeth Hall is a testament to that. While we will miss her on Windsor Drive, we will be sure to continue to connect with her over on Hobbs Road. As we transition into new leadership under Dr. Mike Walker, we will wait to commence a search for the Director of Community Engagement until next school year. 

Sincerely,

Dave Skeen