Peddie Welcomes Two Alumni to Board of Trustees

Dr. Ashish B. Patel ’95 demonstrated leadership during his time at Peddie and throughout his medical career. While at Peddie, he co-founded the school’s chapter of Operation Smile, an initiative that raised funds to provide lifechanging surgeries for children. He was also active on the yearbook staff, Outing Club, and soccer and tennis teams.

After graduating from Peddie, Dr. Patel earned his B.S. from Emory University, his M.D. from Thomas Jefferson University, and completed his residency in radiation oncology at the University of Maryland. He also holds an MBA from the University of Chicago. Currently, he serves as vice chair of quality and safety and associate professor of radiation oncology at Emory University.

Dr. Patel is an active Peddie donor and has hosted several alumni events.

“I am forever indebted to Peddie,” said Patel. “I feel honored to serve Peddie as a trustee and give back just a little to a school that has given me so much.”

Heather McCarthy Drstvensek ’97 made an immediate impact at Peddie after transferring as a junior, emerging as a standout athlete and leader. She led the Varsity Field Hockey team as its top scorer and MVP while excelling on the Varsity Softball team.

After earning her degree from Wesleyan University, Drstvensek pursued fashion marketing at Parsons School of Design, building a successful retail career with leadership roles at Saks Fifth Avenue, Vineyard Vines and Spanx.

Drstvensek’s connection to Peddie remains strong, both personally and professionally. She met her husband, Kurt ’97, at Peddie, and together, they continue to support the Peddie community through event hosting and various school initiatives.

Reflecting on her appointment, Drstvensek shared, “I have continued to stay connected to Peddie because it is a place that has always stayed true to its core values and put its students first. I learned so many important lessons at Peddie that have contributed to the person I am today.”

Dr. Ashish B. Patel ’95 and Heather McCarthy Drstvensek ’97 bring their professional expertise and deep Peddie connections to the school’s leadership.