Director of the Institute for Scholastic Sports Science and Medicine David Hinden is retiring after almost 30 years at the school. Hinden has served the community in many different roles, including teacher, Dean of Faculty and coach for both the Mock Trial and Moot Court teams.

Hinden taught Genetics and Biotechnology, Honors Biology, Chemistry and Criminal Law and Advocacy. Hinden said he is most proud of the coursework and the programs he developed as well as his successes as a coach.

“Professional highlights were creating our Genetics and Biotechnology and Criminal Law and Advocacy courses and developing our Sports Science program to the point where we will offer a full academic sports science course next year,” Hinden said. “[Another highlight is] the bunch of Mock Trial and Moot Court championships we brought to [Harvard-Westlake].”
Hinden said that he has enjoyed his time at the school, particularly because of the community.

“The highlight of my career was working with great kids and colleagues and being part of our vibrant school community,” Hinden said. “It’s been such a pleasure to have been part of this place and an honor to put [the title] ‘Harvard-Westlake teacher’ after my name.”

Colleague praises Hinden’s contribution to the school 

Head of Athletics Terry Barnum said Hinden’s work with the Institute for Scholastic Sports and Medicine and his time as a teacher has made him a tremendous asset to the school.

“No one has the ability to influence both the academic and athletic divisions of Harvard-Westlake like Dave Hinden,” Barnum said. “He has truly left his mark on Harvard-Westlake in multiple ways.”

Hinden said he will use his retirement to travel with his wife as soon as COVID-19 restrictions begin to ease and going overseas becomes a viable option.

“My wife and I [would] love to travel and live part of the year in Italy, and we look forward to both of these things when we can look back on what we are all experiencing now,” Hinden said.