Our Leadership
Blue Ridge Classical Academy is blessed to have hired a founding Head of School whose faith, values, and experience make him an ideal fit for the role. Dr. William Hatten received a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Master of Divinity from Liberty University after earning a bachelor’s in business administration from Eastern Kentucky University. He is certified as both a teacher and school administrator in North Carolina. While in the United States, Dr. Hatten served as a youth pastor, middle and high school teacher, and public school assistant principal. He and his wife Leslie and their son Palmer moved to China nearly five years ago to serve in international education. They began at Wuhan Yangtze International School where Dr. Hatten was Elementary Principal. From there, he was promoted to Head of School at Chengdu International School where he currently serves. Dr. Hatten will complete the academic year in China before relocating to Hendersonville this summer.
Dr. Will Hatten
Head of School
A message from Dr. Hatten to BRCA’s prospective families:
“I feel truly blessed to have the opportunity to serve as Head of School for Blue Ridge Classical Academy. I believe that education has the power to change lives, and I am excited to partner with families to ensure that every student can achieve their fullest potential through rigorous academic content and an intentional focus on character development. I am dedicated to helping scholars discover a love of learning that will drive them to go far beyond studying for a test and will empower them to make a difference in the world around them.
In addition to my enthusiasm for classical Christian education, I am honored to serve in Hendersonville. I grew up moving all around the country and world with my parents; however, each summer, we returned to reconnect with family and friends in Hendersonville. For generations, Hendersonville has been a special place for my family, and I have a deep sense of belonging and connection even though I am currently serving halfway around the world.
As a parent, I want my son to spend his formative years in a Christ-centered learning environment that will prepare him academically, support him emotionally, and build character that will carry him throughout his life. I believe that through collaboration and active engagement, we as a community can realize this vision for all our children, and make a lasting difference in Hendersonville and beyond.”
Dr. Tricia Hunsader
Assistant Head of School
Assistant Head of School
While Dr. Hatten is in China, Dr. Tricia Hunsader will serve as Assistant Head of School, managing the ongoing work required to launch the school under the leadership of Dr. Hatten. Dr. Hunsader started her education career as a classroom teacher, received a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of South Florida, and served there for over a decade as a professor of teacher education with specialization in mathematics and literacy. She took on a full-time administrative role as Dean of the College of Education at Tusculum University in 2016, and was promoted to Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs in 2019. She recently retired from Tusculum and is fully committed to BRCA’s successful launch.