Helen Wu | Founder; Head of School
Helen is originally from Beijing, China, but has lived and worked in the United States since 1990. She attended Beijing Normal University, and went on to achieve a Masters in Operations Research at the Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics. She taught Statistics at American University, and eventually her passion for education led her to begin the Virginia International Academy. Her aim is to aid international students in their academia and daily life. She and her family live in Front Royal, Virginia.
Joshua Petersen | Associate Head of School; COO
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Josh is an investment and operations professional. After receiving a B.A. in philosophy, he spent seven years in the financial services industry ultimately becoming the Chief Trading Officer of a private investment firm in Alexandria, Virginia. Josh then spent five years as Director of Special Operations and Athletic Director at the college level. Additionally, he coaches volleyball at the high school, club and collegiate level. Josh enjoys being a part of Virginia International Academy and working with youth, helping to form them into great men and women.
Catherine Waters | Teacher
Mrs. Waters earned her undergraduate degree from St. Thomas Aquinas College in New York before going on to receive a Master of Curriculum and Instruction at Hood College. For ten years she taught English at St. John’s College Preparatory High School, where she also served as the English Department Chair and directed an annual Shakespeare festival. Mrs. Waters and her family live in Winchester.