Remember Former Headmaster Alan Craig
Current School Committee Clerk Barbara Rose Caldwell served in multiple roles under Alan and reflected on his lasting legacy at the school from her perspective as board chair: “Alan Craig arrived at Moorestown Friends School 30 years ago at a critical moment in the school’s life. After several years of leadership changes, MFS needed a combination of stability, vision, and boldness that is hard to find. Alan was the right person at the right time. He provided leadership that moved the school forward and at the same time preserved its traditions. He oversaw the beautification and upgrade of the campus and its buildings and the construction of the Dining Hall Commons, a transformational space that remains a central part of school life. He hired with an instinctive sense of who was right for MFS and brought key administrators, teachers, and staff to the school – including some who still work here. Often looking beyond the obvious choice, he had an eye for talent. He was also a lot of fun – his Christmas parties are legendary – and a good friend. His love for his wife Mary was always on view and she became an integral part of the community, too. Alan’s successors Larry Van Meter and now Julia de la Torre have built and are building on Alan’s legacy.” While it is a sad time in our community, I invite you to celebrate the impact that Alan Craig had on hundreds of young people who are now leaders, professionals, volunteers, parents, and much more – near and far. His legacy is forever etched in Moorestown Friends School history. School leaders recognize that they are merely temporary stewards of an institution at a moment in time, and that their impact may not be felt for years to come. There is no doubt that Alan Craig was the right person at the right time for Moorestown Friends School. Alan embraced the challenges facing the school and took great pride in MFS, seeing clear possibilities for its future. As I walk the grounds of our beautiful campus, I am grateful for the choices Alan made during his time here.
Spring 2021
Alan R. Craig’s obituary can be found at www.yasikfuneralhomes.com. Alan is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary Craig; his sons David (Kristin) of Granby, CO, and Ian (Holly) of New Orleans, LA; and his grandchildren Bailey, Holden, Cooper, Millie, and Maia. A celebration of Alan’s life will be announced in the future. Memorial contributions may be made to Moorestown Friends School, 110 E. Main Street, Moorestown, NJ 08057 or www.mfriends.org/alanrcraig. His belief in MFS has had a direct impact on the thousands of students and families who continue to benefit from the school he loved. He will be missed by many, but his legacy continues to live on at our school today. I know you will join me in holding Alan’s wife, Mary, and his children, Ian and David, in the Light. We will share any information about services in celebration of Alan’s life as they become available. Sincerely,
Julia de la Torre
AMONG FRIENDS
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