The first time I stepped onto the MBA campus I was struck by its sense of place. Situated in the heart of Nashville, MBA’s campus is a testament to its deep sens
e of history. It has attracted many great individuals over the past 140 years. In the nineteenth century Princeton University President Dr. John Berrien Lindsley chose to leave that prestigious position to take the helm of Montgomery Bell Academy. There has always been a strong attraction to the MBA campus; the sense of place, time, and history is indeed remarkable.
The architecture on our campus perfectly suits this sense of place. The dramatic columns, symmetrical style of the buildings, and beautifully designed walkways and fields provide a sense of order. At the same time there exists a moving and powerful understanding of the depth of history in this great school. Approaching the campus there is an aura of the traditional academy, a revered place of learning, and a powerful sense of tradition. The buildings represent the classical heritage of the school. Carved in stone, the plaques and quotations are reminiscent of the school’s mission and storied history. MBA proudly remembers its past while looking ahead to its future.
The campus also projects a feeling of optimism and innovation. Clever features, such as the sundial above the entrance to the science building and the inspirational quotations around campus, are reminders that this campus expects excellence from all who participate on these grounds.
A great succession of faculty has left its mark on MBA. Whether a person has an interest in science or math, English or history, foreign language or fine arts, he can sense the greatness of a teacher who has had a profound influence on a student’s life. It is readily apparent that these teachers have dedicated their lives to the young men who have studied, worked, and performed here. This commitment to excellence is defined by the legacy of academic and athletic performance, by tangible achievement, and by a wide-ranging college matriculation record.
MBA’s legacy of leadership continues to radiate from this campus. Throughout our city of Nashville, within many parts of our country, and literally throughout the world, MBA alumni have made their mark. To remember that General Frank Andrews attended MBA in the early twentieth century, to see his name on our field knowing that he is the namesake of our President’s airfield, is reflective of the long-standing traditions of leadership and excellence at MBA. This fine balance of excellence is manifested through personal integrity, academic rigor, and extracurricular performance. Implicit in the MBA culture is an acceptance that students and faculty and families must strive for that balance and excellence.
The school’s ideal of Gentleman, Scholar, Athlete supports and prioritizes that mission. Our community knows instinctively that we expect our young men to be first and foremost good people; then successful students and scholars who embrace a strong academic tradition; and finally, individuals who excel in athletics and extracurricular programs. This balanced pursuit of excellence is revered and admired within the city of Nashville and throughout our country.
By far, however, the most intriguing characteristic of the MBA community is the feeling of loyalty and camaraderie that exists among its students and alumni. Daily I hear of circumstances in which an MBA graduate offers to help another MBA graduate or student, either in business or personally. By the time a young man completes his education at MBA, he knows fully and freely how strong his relationships are, and how wonderful his experience has been. Although a student may have been at MBA for only four or six years, his education will indeed last a lifetime.He will always feel a sense of place about the MBA community wherever he is in his life.
