The Cheshire Academy Board of Trustees recently elected four new trustees, including Dr. William A. Petit Jr.

Petit is currently serving his third term as Connecticut state representative of the 22nd District, representing the towns of Plainville and New Britain. From 2019-2002, Petit has served as a ranking member of the Public Health Committee, and as a member of the Education and Energy and Technology committees.

Petit has a wealth of knowledge in the medical field, having previously operated a practice in Plainville from 1989-2007.

In 1997, Petit was chosen to become the medical director of the Joslin Diabetes Center at what is now the Central Hospital of Connecticut. He also served as Plainville’s director of public health from 1994-2008.

Petit has strong ties to Cheshire Academy, as his wife, Jennifer Hawke-Petit, previously served as the school’s co-director of the Richmond Health Center. After the loss of Jennifer and his two daughters, Hayley and Michaela, Dr. Petit — with the help of friends and family — formed the Petit Family Foundation in their memory.

In addition to his professional and charitable work, Petit serves on countless committees and boards for the sciences, domestic violence, education, and other efforts.

A graduate of Plainville High School, he earned an undergraduate degree from Dartmouth University, a medical degree from University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and completed a fellowship in endocrinology at the Yale School of Medicine. He currently lives in Plainville. 

ll of whom bring immense knowledge, skills, and experience from their professional and personal lives. 

Cheshire Academy’s other new trustees are Mitchell Herman, Suparna Mody and Todd Savage.