MKA Mourns the Loss of Philip L. Anderson

Montclair Kimberley Academy is deeply saddened by the loss of former Headmaster Philip L. Anderson who passed away on July 26, 2016 at the age of 93. Serving Montclair Academy during a pivotal time in its history, during the widespread debate on coed education and the Academy's consideration to merge with The Kimberley School, Anderson was first the Assistant Director and then voted Headmaster in the fall of 1966 by a unanimous vote – and standing ovation - by the board of Trustees.

Philip Anderson led Montclair Academy with an eye to the future and the perseverance to fulfill its destiny. At a time when discussions of merger waged opposing opinions, he united the MA community with plans for growth and academic achievement. The completion of new buildings became symbols of Anderson's efficacy and leadership, including the Fairleigh Dickinson Jr. Gymnasium and Weiss Arts Center. In the 1969-70 Annual Report, Anderson wrote, "It was a thrill beyond words to address the students and faculty on September 11 at our first morning meeting in the new...auditorium." And he quoted the head of Phillips Exeter Academy, Richard W. Day, saying, "School buildings reflect an educational vision." It took no time for Anderson to shape his own educational vision for Montclair Academy, creating a Faculty Committee on Educational Policy shortly after his arrival. This "illustrious group," as he labeled it, shaped "an extremely competitive and rigorous academic program including the addition of advanced placement courses in all major subject areas." And soon MA students could choose from a wider assortment of courses – Chinese, four years of Latin, Asian Studies, Black Studies, five levels of French, Spanish and German, comparative political and economic systems. At the same time, sensitive to the arts, MA stepped up its offerings in music. Nixon Bicknell, the only trained musician on the faculty at the time, praised Anderson's commitment to the arts stating, "He would not let anybody get in the way of building an arts program," said Bicknell. "That made quite a difference."

Mr. Anderson resigned his position in the spring of 1974 as Montclair Academy and The Kimberley School began a new chapter in their history to become The Montclair Kimberley Academy. In June of that year, the editors of The Montclair News paid tribute to his dedication and concern for the continuing success of MA when they wrote, "Those of us fortunate enough to have received our secondary education under the leadership of Philip Anderson have had the best...He will be greatly missed."

Philip Anderson was a visionary leader, colleague and friend. After leaving MKA, his dedication to education continued for many years, including 18 years of service as Headmaster of Morristown-Beard School from 1974-1992. His contribution to our founding story will always be remembered and honored by the Montclair Kimberley Academy community.

Below is the information regarding visitation and funeral services:

Monday, August 1, 2016
Visitation from 3:00 - 7:00 PM
Doyle Funeral Home
106 Maple Avenue
Morristown, NJ

Tuesday, August 2, 2016
Mass of Christian Burial – 10:00 AM
Assumption Church
91 Maple Avenue
Morristown, NJ

For more information please visit the Doyle Funeral Home website www.doylefh.com.