As it heads into the 2015-16 school year, Salisbury Academy welcomes three new members to its board of trustees: Dr. Ben Ott, Cliff Sorel and Dr. Ryan Rich.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Ott earned a bachelor’s degree from Penn State, a medical degree from Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed a residency in family medicine at the University of Virginia. Ott lives in Salisbury with his wife, Amy, and his two children, Emma and Ethan. He is a family practitioner at Rowan Family Physicians on Julian Road.

An investment banker with 27 years of experience, Sorel began working in investments immediately after graduating from St. John Fisher College in Pittsford, New York, with a double major in finance and accounting. Sorel lives in Salisbury with his wife, Barbara.

“I have been admiring Salisbury Academy from the sidelines and have been impressed with what they’ve been able to accomplish in a relatively short period of time,” said Sorel. “As a new board member, I want to learn more about their success and help continue their mission and growth.”

Rich, grew up in St. Louis and earned his undergraduate and medical degrees from Wake Forest University. He also completed his residency in anesthesia at Wake Forest. Prior to medical school, Rich earned a master’s degree in biology from Washington University in St. Louis. Rich lives in Salisbury with his wife, Alice, and his two children, Eve and Sam. He is an anesthesiologist for Providence Anesthesiology Associates and practices primarily at Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

“Our new trustees all share a passion for learning, environmental stewardship and a strong commitment to community,” said Paul Bardinas, board of trustees chairman for Salisbury Academy.

With its recent additions, the Salisbury Academy board stands at 17 members, plus ex-officio member Beverly Fowler, head of school for the academy. Other 2015-16 board members include Matt Barr, Clay Lindsay, Laura Lewis, Robert Anderson, Reid Acree, Andrea Davis, Diane Fisher, Angela Hall, Melody Lee, Clint Robins, Blaine Smith, Claudia Swicegood and Dr. John Wear.

“Our school’s success is in thanks in large part to the talents, hard work and dedication of our many current and former trustees,” said Bardinas. “I look forward to working with each of them as we continue the mission of Salisbury Academy.