Judy Nesbit Is Leaving Her Legacy at MKA
Through a Bequest in Her Will

Judy Nesbit

Over the course of her 38-year teaching career at Montclair Kimberley Academy, Judith (Judy) Nesbit made a lasting impact on generations of students. Her commitment to the school remains clear as she has chosen to support future Cougars by including MKA in her estate plan. “The MKA community has been a huge part of my life,” she says, “and education is extremely important to me.”

A Glen Ridge, New Jersey, native, Judy graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University and joined her parents in Belgium where her father had accepted a new position. Judy’s deep appreciation for education began with her first teaching position at the International School of Brussels, and she subsequently accepted a contract to work at the Frankfurt International School.

Following the death of Judy’s father, she and her mother moved back to New Jersey. Judy interviewed with and was hired by The Kimberley School Headmaster Dick Loveland in 1969. She served as a math and computer programming teacher and, for several years, a class advisor. Judy was the only female math teacher at the time of the merger of Montclair Academy and The Kimberley School in 1974. Outside of the classroom, Judy coached the Cheerleading Team and even made the students’ cheerleading uniforms for a time. She also lent her creative talents to the performing arts program by designing costumes for the Winter Musical for many years. Her breadth of experience in various areas of the school helped Judy understand the impact of a high-quality education and extracurricular activities as well as the need for continued philanthropic support.

Judy’s relationship with MKA did not end upon her retirement in 2007. She continues to serve as a substitute teacher and remains heavily involved with the Development Office and Office of Alumni Engagement. Judy has made time to connect with students, parents, and alumni over annual Homecoming and Reunion Weekends, and she rarely misses a Winter Musical at the Upper School.

MKA has figured prominently in much of Judy’s life, and we deeply appreciate the enduring impact her bequest will have on future generations of students.