Montgomery Bell Academy - Bell Yearbook (Nashville, TN)

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Mr. Laird Smith, Jr. A unique figure among the M.B.A. administration, Dr. Harold Crowell is a very popular and experienced man. Because his numerous responsibilities have been lessened a bit, he has been able to give more time and attention to those activities which are most important to him. Due to his ability to relate to the students on a personal and humorous basis, Dr. Crowell makes an effective Dean of Faculty and Stu- dents. Dr. Crowell is also Chairman of the Science Department, advisor to the Junior class, and teaches a demanding but enjoyable Physics class. He received Dr. Harold Crowell Dr. Edward Gaffney serves in a challenging position as head of the Junior school. His presence is a boon to both High School students and Junior Schoolers, for, as a prestigious figure in his field, he teaches all levels of Latin from first year to advanced placement. He received his B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. from Vander- bilt University. Dr. Edward Gaffney Mr. James A. Poston serves as M.B.A. ’s Guidance Director. Under the new demerit system, Mr. Poston is also demerit supervisor for the Senior class. He teaches English I, English IV, and courses in speech and reading. Mr. Poston is the sponsor of the Drama Club and directs a play for it every year. In addition, he is coach of the Tennis team. Mr. Poston received his M.A. from George Peabody College. Mr. James A. Poston Mr. Laird Smith, Jr., Director of Buildings and Grounds at Montgomery Bell Academy, could well be considered the handyman of the administration. What makes Mr. Smith unique is his extra work beyond the call of duty. He can be seen mowing the grass one hour and cleaning the campus the next, on weekday or weekend. Mr. Smith is a graduate of Vanderbilt University. 21

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Mr. Bondurant’s ninth year as headmaster of MBA. has proved to be a productive one in many ways. Mr. Bondurant has focused on having better relations with students and receiving more student input on important issues concerning MBA. Throughout the year, Mr. Bondurant invited Seniors to come and eat dinner at his house to discuss their opinions on all facets of life on the Hill. His talks on the subject of leadership formed an enlightening part of the assembly program. Finally, Mr. Bondurant has eagerly sought, and is beginning to attain, the desirable reputation that the school deserves, not only in the South, but also all across the country. Assistant Headmaster Michael Drake, in addition to his adminis- trative duties, has served in the past as the personal college counselor to every Junior and Senior for several years. With the addition of Mr. White to the faculty, Mr. Drake is able to spend more time as the Senior Class advisor. In addition to his adminis- trative responsibilities, Mr. Drake manages to teach a popular 1st period AP American History course. His great rapport with the students is well-suited to his duties. Six years ago Mr. Drake, as acting Headmaster, admitted this year’s Senior class into seventh grade, and since that time has taken the credit (and blame) for all that class’s actions. No doubt, this year’s Seniors will always remember their years at MBA as Mr. Drake’s class.’’ Most importantly, however, they will remember his undying devotion to the individual student and unending dedication to all facets of MBA. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia and of George Peabody College for teachers. Mr. Michael Drake

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Mr. John R. Bennett, Director of Athletics, is a valuable member of the M.B.A. faculty. He is the head coach of the Varsity Baseball team and the Microbe Baseball squad, and instructs courses in both Algebra and Geom- etry. Mr. Bennett’s influence is further felt as sponsor to the service club and to SADD. This continued interest in the issue of drug and alcohol abuse has truly been an inspiration to the entire M.B.A. community. Mr. Bennett received a B.E. from Vanderbilt University. Mr. John R. Bennett In order to assist Juniors and Seniors in deciding about and gaining acceptance to college, the Directorship of college counseling was added, and Mr. Ed White was chosen to be that director. Mr. White was previous- ly the Dean of Admissions at Davidson College and the Director of Athletics at Southwestern. Mr. White’s goal has been to impress upon the students and parents the need for early college thinking.’’ Mr. White received his B.A. from Davidson and his M.A. from the University of South Carolina. Office Staff Mr. H. Edmunds White Although the administration is a vital part of any school system, Montgomery Bell Academy depends on the office staff as a necessary foundation upon which the Administration performs its day to day activities. Mrs. Bradshaw and Mrs. Morrissey serve as receptionists in the High school and Junior school respectively. Mrs. Garriott, Mrs. Liles, and Mrs. Kelton perform their secretarial duties in the Main Office with Mrs. Bradshaw. Amid the numerous daily tasks of these faithful five are the handling of massive administrative paperwork, selling supplies, managing the student fund, calculating grades, and processing of the school’s mail. As important as anything, however, these ladies are friends to the students and comply with a variety of requests that go far beyond the call of duty. The school is proud to have such a dedicated and indespensible group of women. Mrs. Bradshaw Mrs. Garriott Mrs. Liles Mrs. Kelton 22