A lifelong Upper Valley local, educator and storyteller, Michael brings decades of leadership, legacy and lived history to Harvest Hill.
Michael C. recently joined the Harvest Hill community. Born in Brooklyn N.Y., his family moved to Hanover in 1929 when his father accepted a teaching position at Dartmouth College. Michael was raised in the Upper Valley in a “sleepy” pre-interstate Hanover, and his memories include steam trains in White River Junction and the excitement of following Dartmouth sports. His father was also a Dartmouth alumnus who graduated in 1927.
Michael graduated from Vermont Academy in 1946 and went on to attend Dartmouth College. While at Dartmouth, he played freshmen football and baseball and varsity hockey in his sophomore year. He also met his wife of 66 years, Nita, then a nursing student at Mary Hitchcock. He graduated in 1951 and enrolled in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, where at attained the rank of captain. After marrying, he and Nita were stationed at Camp Lejeune, where their first child, Melanie, was born.
After completing his service, Michael began teaching at Millbrook School, where he discovered his calling. In 1954, he returned to Vermont Academy, where he made a lasting impact as a teacher and coach, and later as headmaster. His legacy remains on campus: He brought co-education to Vermont Academy and the school’s ice rink bears his name, and the new theater was named in honor of Nita’s as Director of Drama. During those years, they lived on campus and raised their three children: Melanie, Ellie and Mike in a dormitory apartment. In 1962, he was awarded the Condict Cup for outstanding service to Vermont Academy.
Michael later came full circle, returning to his alma mater to lead Dartmouth’s alumni relations program until his retirement in 1994. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Michael is a gifted storyteller with a quick wit. Whether discussing the latest game, playing bridge, birdwatching or sharing memories of “old” Vermont and New Hampshire, his charm and remarkable memory for names stand out.
A stalwart of the community, Michael brings a lifetime of stories and experiences with him. We’re honored he has chosen Harvest Hill as his home.
Discover the stories that shape our community and the people who make it special. Learn more about life at Harvest Hill Assisted Living by calling 603-308-0475 or by requesting information on our website.