During Community Meeting on November 3, Head of School Andy Chappell recognized and celebrated Derryfield employees who were marking their 15th year of service to the school: Regina Assetta (English department), Chris Induni (Math department), Andrea Stevenson (receptionist and assistant to the Middle School Head), and Alex Vazquez (director of facilities).
Regina Assetta: Ms. Assetta’s fifteen years at Derryfield have been defined by teaching excellence, and an impressive dedication to her students. Currently serving as an English teacher, department chair, and Community Meeting coordinator, Ms. Assetta not only shapes our academic program but also the very spirit of our community.
In the classroom, Ms. Assetta brings language and literature to life with warmth, insight, and creativity. She challenges her students to think deeply, write with authenticity, and find meaning in the written word.
In her role as Community Meeting Coordinator, her impact has enriched school life in countless ways. With her thoughtfulness, attention to detail, and deep sense of community, she ensures that our gatherings reflect both the values we hold dear and the joy of coming together as a school.
A colleague captured her impact beautifully: “Ms. Assetta is an incredibly hard worker, an extremely supportive department chair, and someone who believes deeply in our students. I feel lucky that I get to work with such a dedicated colleague and look up to her so much.”
Chris Induni: For fifteen years, Mr. Induni has been a thoughtful, kind, and patient member of the Derryfield Math Department. As a teacher, tutor, and faculty advisor to the Math Team, Mr. Induni has inspired students and colleagues alike through his deep knowledge, steady support, and genuine love of learning.
In the classroom, Mr. Induni is known for his clarity and skill at making even the most abstract mathematical ideas come alive. His students not only understand the “how” of math but also appreciate the “why”—thanks to his thoughtful explanations and his tireless commitment to their success.
As faculty advisor to the Math Team, Mr. Induni leads with equal parts intellect and enthusiasm. Under his leadership, the team has achieved remarkable success—evident in the array of trophies proudly displayed in Room 103. Yet his greatest triumph lies in the camaraderie, curiosity, and joy he cultivates among his students and fellow colleagues.
One colleague shared the following: “Mr. Induni is an excellent teacher, a great math team coach, and a friendly and helpful colleague.”
Andrea Stevenson: Ms. Stevenson has been the steady center of the Middle School for the past fifteen years. As our receptionist, she is often the first face students, parents, and colleagues see each day—and her gentle warmth and genuine kindness set the tone for all who pass through her corridor.
Ms. Stevenson is known for her grace, patience, and thoughtfulness. She manages the many moving parts of the Middle School with calm efficiency and good humor, all while offering a listening ear and a kind word to anyone who needs it. She embodies the very best of our community—quiet strength, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to others.
One colleague put it best: “Ms. Stevenson truly embodies our Core Values—she always aims high, strives for balance, and is extremely caring. Her character is of the highest order; she values community and family, and she is always encouraging the stream of Middle School students who swim through her corridor to follow their passions and love of learning.”
Alex Vazquez: Mr. Vazquez’s contributions have been defined by hard work, good humor, and an unwavering commitment to keeping our campus running smoothly—and beautifully. As director of facilities, Mr. Vazquez is the kind of person every school dreams of having: skilled, dependable, and always ready to lend a hand with a smile.
From what’s above the ceilings to what’s buried beneath the ground, nobody knows this campus better. He has an encyclopedic understanding of every building, system, and shortcut, and he can be found here at all hours, responding to whatever is needed—often before anyone else even realizes there’s an issue. Whether it’s an early-morning maintenance call, a late-night snowstorm, or a last-minute event setup, Mr. Vazquez rolls up his sleeves and gets the job done with trademark cheer and dedication.
Colleagues describe him as hardworking, cheerful, and friendly—someone who leads by example and keeps morale high with his easygoing personality and quick wit. For fifteen years, Mr. Vazquez has been a cornerstone of this campus: reliable, resourceful, and endlessly kind. We are deeply grateful for all he has done—and continues to do—to make Derryfield such a safe, well-cared-for, and welcoming place for us all.
