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Frank Boyden, the Visionary Headmaster Who Transformed Deerfield Academy

Alexander Blair

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Published in The Headmaster: Frank L Boyden Of Deerfield

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Frank Boyden leading a group of students on a nature walk at Deerfield Academy.

Frank Boyden was a visionary educator who served as the headmaster of Deerfield Academy for 25 years, from 1902 to 1927. During his tenure, he transformed the school from a struggling boarding institution into one of the most prestigious preparatory schools in the United States. Boyden's legacy continues to this day, as Deerfield Academy remains one of the top college preparatory schools in the world.

The Headmaster: Frank L. Boyden of Deerfield

by John McPhee

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Frank Boyden speaking to a group of students in a classroom at Deerfield Academy.

Early Life and Career

Frank Leroy Boyden was born on February 1, 1870, in Rahway, New Jersey. He was the son of George and Adeline Boyden. His father was a successful businessman and his mother was a devout Christian. Boyden attended Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, and graduated from Yale University in 1894. After college, he taught at several schools before becoming the headmaster of Deerfield Academy in 1902.

Frank Boyden and his wife, Edith, at their home in Deerfield, Massachusetts.

Headmaster of Deerfield Academy

When Boyden arrived at Deerfield Academy, the school was in a state of decline. Enrollment had dropped and the school's facilities were in poor condition. Boyden immediately began to make changes to improve the school. He raised the academic standards, increased the size of the faculty, and expanded the school's athletic programs. He also built new dormitories, a gymnasium, and a chapel.

Frank Boyden in the chapel at Deerfield Academy.

Boyden's Educational Philosophy

Boyden's educational philosophy was based on the belief that students learn best by ng. He encouraged students to participate in a wide range of activities, both inside and outside the classroom. He also believed that students should be challenged to think for themselves and to develop their own beliefs.

Frank Boyden leading a group of students on a camping trip.

Boyden's Legacy

Frank Boyden's legacy is still felt at Deerfield Academy today. The school's motto, "Non Sibi Sed Aliis" ("Not for Self but for Others"),reflects Boyden's belief that students should strive to make a difference in the world. Boyden's educational philosophy continues to guide the school's curriculum and extracurricular programs.

Frank Boyden's statue on the campus of Deerfield Academy.

Frank Boyden was a visionary educator who transformed Deerfield Academy into one of the most prestigious preparatory schools in the United States. His legacy continues to this day, as Deerfield Academy remains one of the top college preparatory schools in the world.

The Headmaster: Frank L. Boyden of Deerfield

by John McPhee

4.5 out of 5