Montclair Kimberley Academy Alumni

🏆 Congratulations to Rob Leather, recipient of the 2026 Founders’ Cup for Teaching Excellence!

As Upper School Health, Wellness and Physical Education Department Chair and Head Boys Varsity Soccer Coach, Rob has inspired countless students through his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to helping young people grow into their best selves.

Nominators described Rob as “kind, caring, and compassionate” and praised the meaningful relationships he builds with students and families alike. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or around campus, Rob embodies the very best of MKA.

Thank you, Rob, for the extraordinary impact you make every day. We are so proud to celebrate this well-deserved honor! 💙🐾

Celebrated artist and MKA alumna Marina Adams ’76 recently joined curators Raymond Foye and Claire Gilman at Peter Blum Gallery for a special conversation marking the release of Marina Adams – Works on Paper: A Survey. The book is a fully illustrated publication surveying works on paper by Marina Adams spanning over three decades (1994–2025). The discussion offers an intimate look at Adams’ creative process, artistic evolution, and the striking body of work featured in the accompanying exhibition. The exhibition remains on view through May 29 at Peter Blum Gallery.

Listen to the discussion: https://lnkd.in/eipdCXnr

Purchase the book to further explore the vibrant and visionary work of this distinguished alumni artist: https://lnkd.in/e8Qv5Z9a

With immense pride, we celebrate the MKA Class of 2026 🎓

This extraordinary class of 111 students will matriculate at 72 colleges across 22 states, and even internationally, with two students heading to Scotland. Nearly half of the class will attend institutions with admit rates of 15% or lower, a reflection of their hard work, talent, and determination.

From scholars and artists to athletes, leaders, and friends, the Class of 2026 has left an indelible mark on our community. Their accomplishments are a testament not only to their dedication, but also to the faculty, staff, and families who supported them along the way.

We cannot wait to see all they accomplish in this next chapter. 💚💙

✨ MKA recently hosted a special reception celebrating the Community Scholars Program and honoring graduating senior Francis Ogbuehi, Class of 2026.

The evening also featured remarks from alumna and former Community Scholar Kheri Freeman ’11, who reflected on the lasting impact the program has had on her life and encouraged current scholars to embrace every opportunity before them.

Since 1969, the Community Scholars Program has provided life-changing opportunities for students of exceptional promise through comprehensive financial support and a strong sense of community.

We are deeply grateful to the donors, alumni, and families whose generosity continues to make this transformative program possible. 💙💚

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charry “Chaz” Godwin Ross, 54, who died on April 26, 2026.

Chaz was born on August 11, 1971, to Drs. Alan and Rene Godwin in Jersey City. She began her education at The Montclair Kimberly Academy, continuing her studies at Syracuse University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Biology, followed by a Master's Degree in Journalism at New York University.

Chaz had an impressive career in public relations, beginning in broadcast PR at Fleishman-Hillard International Communications. After seven years with Fleishman-Hillard, she went on to work with several other communications firms. Her career culminated at Havas PR, where she served as a Senior Vice President of Media for the healthcare team. Throughout her career, Chaz helped her clients by challenging and inspiring them to dream bigger.

Beyond her extensive career, Chaz married her husband, Mitchell Ross, in 2010. Together they have one daughter, Stella Max Ross, born in November 2010.

At age 11 Chaz was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, which fueled her passion to find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. She spent much of her time advocating and volunteering with Breakthrough T1D, formerly known as JDRF.

She was predeceased by her father, Dr. Alan Godwin; mother, Dr. Rene Godwin; and sister, Gretchen Godwin.

Chaz is lived on by her husband, Mitchell; daughter, Stella; brother, Dr. Loyd Godwin (and Sara Godwin); sister, Serena Godwin (and David Meyrowitz); nieces, Samantha, Cate, and Madeline Godwin, and Ava Chickering; and nephews, Jarett Chickering and Jed Meyrowitz.

Donations in the memory of Charry “Chaz” Godwin Ross can be made to Breakthrough T1D, formerly known as JDRF, at https://www.breakthrought1d.org/

That’s a wrap on Reunion Weekend celebrating the 1’s and 6’s! 🎉 The energy was unmatched as alumni came together, reconnected, and showed their Cougar pride.

The Tierney’s takeover was the culmination, with George Hrab ’89 on stage, a mind-blowing mentalist, incredible food, and nonstop laughs. So special to see everyone across classes in one place.

Already counting down to next year! 🐾 💚 💙

Journey to Aotearoa: An MKA Alumni Experience Like No Other!

In March 2027, MKA will host the first global experience alumni trip, a 10-day immersive adventure in New Zealand with ExpedNZ | Whenua Iti, leaders in experiential education. This journey invites participants to slow down, step outside their comfort zones, and see the world through multiple lenses.

Walk the paths our students walk;explore breathtaking landscapes through indigenous Māori and Western worldviews; reflect, reconnect, and rediscover purpose. Then, unwind during a restorative final two days in New Zealand’s stunning Abel Tasman National Park.

This is not a tour, it’s a transformational learning journey for alumni who want to engage deeply with place, people, and purpose.

Limited interest cohort forming now.

Email [email protected] for details.