Hampton Roads Academy is excited to announce the recent hiring of Elizabeth Cavallari as the new Director of College Counseling. We believe that her extensive background and experience working in college counseling will be pivotal in upholding HRA’s 100% college acceptance rate and guiding our students in their future educational opportunities.

Cavallari comes to us after most recently working at William & Mary’s School of Education where she served as the Manager of Recruitment & Admissions for four years before being promoted to Associate Director. In this role, Elizabeth Cavallari  led marketing and recruitment efforts, provided counsel and advising, and worked as a pre-major advisor for undergraduate students. Simultaneously, Elizabeth Cavallari fulfilled the role as a law school admission consultant for 7Sage Educational Partners where she advised law school applicants regarding admission strategy, from initial research through enrollment decisions.

For six years, Elizabeth Cavallari worked her way up through the admission department at William & Mary Law School. She initially took on the responsibility of Assistant Dean for Admissions where she reviewed over 10,000 applications. She also represented William & Mary at law school fairs, panels and information sessions.

Her career working in college admission first began though at Bucknell University as their Assistant Director of Admissions. Cavallari was accountable for territory management and student recruitment within the Western region and also supervised and coordinated dozens of student tours. It was Bucknell where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and History before achieving her MEd in Educational Leadership–Higher Education Administration from William & Mary.

Supporting Every Student

At Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, every student is recognized for their individuality. The school is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that meets each student’s unique needs, offering personalized academic guidance, emotional support, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. Central to HRA’s approach is a culture of kindness that shapes all interactions and initiatives.

HRA is also committed to making its high-quality education accessible to all families. Through tailored tuition assistance programs, the school ensures that financial concerns do not stand in the way of a student’s education. By offering compassionate resources and support, HRA meets the needs of its diverse community with care.

A Commitment to Excellence

At Hampton Roads Academy, education extends beyond the classroom. This year’s theme, the “Year of Kindness,” reinforces the importance of kindness in all aspects of school life. HRA’s rigorous academic program emphasizes honor, integrity, and personal growth, supporting students in developing their unique strengths.

With small class sizes and individualized attention, HRA’s dedicated faculty ensures each student receives the support needed to succeed. This holistic approach fosters an environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and physically, while exploring a variety of extracurricular activities—all while embodying kindness as a core value.

Why Choose Hampton Roads Academy?

As the Peninsula’s only independent school serving Pre-K through Grade 12, Hampton Roads Academy provides a standout educational experience. Accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, HRA upholds the highest standards of academic excellence.

HRA offers a wide array of extracurricular opportunities. Athletic programs foster teamwork, fitness, and sportsmanship, while the Arts program allows students to express their creativity. Through the REACH Initiative, students connect academic learning to real-world applications, reinforcing the values of kindness, community service, and personal growth.

Schedule Your Tour in Newport News, VA

At Hampton Roads Academy, students receive an exceptional education with a strong focus on character development. By nurturing critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and a spirit of discovery, HRA shapes future leaders equipped to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Serving families in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton, and Williamsburg, VA, HRA invites you to schedule a campus tour and explore how its nurturing environment can help your child reach their full potential.