A Lasting MBS Connection: Newly Dedicated Kirby Track Honors Allan P. Kirby, Jr. ’49

Before the 34th annual running of the Kirby Mile, a beloved Homecoming tradition, Morristown Beard School proudly dedicated its track in honor and memory of one of its most distinguished alumni, Allan P. Kirby, Jr. ’49, whose lasting impact on the School spanned generations.

For Mr. Kirby, his connection to Morristown Beard School began as a student. A member of the Class of 1949, he was active on campus and competed on the football, tennis, and track teams. His accomplishments as a student-athlete were later recognized when he was inducted into the MBS Athletic Hall of Fame in 1989.

But his relationship with MBS didn’t end when he graduated. Mr. Kirby remained closely connected to the School throughout his life, serving on the Board of Trustees from 1986 to 1992 and being named Trustee Emeritus in 2010. In 2018, he received the Distinguished Alumni Award in recognition of his extraordinary support of Morristown Beard School.

Mr. Kirby cared deeply about the School he had known as a student. It was not unusual for him to drive onto campus unannounced, simply to make sure things were in good hands. He had a sharp wit and a discerning eye, but above all, he had a genuine affection for MBS and took great pride in the School and its students.

His support of MBS was about much more than philanthropy. He remained invested in the School and its direction, bringing the same sense of commitment he had developed as a student-athlete to his service as a Trustee and his support of generations of MBS students.

With the dedication of the Kirby Track, MBS honors an alumnus whose relationship with the School began more than 75 years ago. From competing on MBS teams as a student to serving as a Trustee and supporting the School for decades after graduation, Allan Price Kirby, Jr. ’49 remained deeply connected to the community that helped shape him.

The Kirby Track will serve as a lasting reminder of that connection and of an alumnus who never stopped caring about his School. The temporary banner designating the name of the track will be replaced with permanent signage.