One day, a Malvern alumni named Michael Riordan sought to return to MP’s doors, this time with the idea of contributing something beneficial to the school. With his experience of the world now being a successful lawyer, he knew it was time to reciprocate the many gifts back to the place that made him the man he was today.
Initially, he planned to partner up with Mr. Ron Algeo, Associate Head of School, to create a leadership class where fellow Malvernians would learn to “lift each other up.” From this, Algeo expanded on the idea and proposed that, since there was already an MP athletic hall of fame, why not create a version for those who’ve contributed greatly to the community?
A handful of the people who have earned the privilege of a spot on the Wall of Distinction include big names like Mr. Jim Murray. Murray was the general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles from 1973 to 82. But I would argue that his best achievement is as the co-founder of the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, the philanthropic organization that provides housing and care to parents while their child is being treated in the hospital.
For more context on just how much of a difference the broader Ronald McDonald House has had on society, it helps roughly 2.7 million families annually with their overnight stays in RMH facilities and in 2023 alone had allowed around $736 million to be saved by families in expenses. Murray’s help in expanding it in the Greater Philadelphia region has for sure contributed to this great statistic, bringing pride and unity in the Philadelphia and Malvern community to keep at it with their kind acts.
Another notable on the Wall is Mrs. Joann Downs, an MP parent who has helped over 40 students who were all brought up in underperforming areas to be able to call Malvern Prep their home. By offering them a chance at receiving an education that will direct them to potential great success in life, one can say she embodies the Malvernian dream.
Personally, for me, I believe this wall of distinction should add some form of a “direct student involvement” to it. What I mean by this is how maybe during an FMR or the daily report during homeroom, a vote could be sent out to all the students briefly detailing a few of the potential picks for the wall of distinction and allow them to vote. This way, it promotes a sense of community among the student body.
To this day, the committee that decides who to induct into this wall meets regularly, picking out the people who have made true selfless contributions to both Malvern and beyond; while getting your name on the wall sure is impressive, it stands as a reminder to simply do good just because you can.
