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Todd - your leadership, compassion and dedication to Milton were inspirational and a major reason why I was honored to serve as a Trustee.  I’m so glad I got to witness up close your massive positive impact on Milton, and the testimonials from your family, friends and peers are truly extraordinary.  Thank you for everything you’ve done for Milton, enjoy the next chapter in your life and let us know if you’re ever in NYC.

Justin Walsh ‘99

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You made the decision to work at Milton so much easier because of your leadership...I am sad to see you go, but grateful I got to work with you for the time I did!  Best wishes to you and your amazing family on the next step in your journey.
Carol Giusti-Cahalane

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Thank you Todd for amazing leadership for the entire Milton community and friendship with us HK alums all these years. So great to see you briefly again just now at my 30th reunion! Beside great times, you have been there for us during tough times as well. Thanks for being there via zoom to support my COVID & vaccine knowledge sharing during COVID. Meant so much. Hope to see you again in the future and wish you and family all the best! Cheers, Simon Tang ‘93

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Thank you Todd for amazing leadership for the entire Milton community and friendship with us HK alums all these years. So great to see you briefly again just now at my 30th reunion! Beside great times, you have been there for us during tough times as well. Thanks for being there via zoom to support my COVID & vaccine knowledge sharing during COVID. Meant so much. Hope to see you again in the future and wish you and family all the best! Cheers, Simon Tang ‘93

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Thank you for always showing up for us, Todd

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Thank you for always showing up for us, Todd

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Since you are human, I'm guessing you had one or two personally challenging days during your incredible fourteen year tenure as Milton's Head of School. But you are the most empathetic, kind, and generous of humans. The best kind of leader. The Milton Community--your people--always knew that our needs, our challenges, our issues, and our wellbeing came first for you.

Your caretaking and stewardship of your people is consistent, and always genuine. I still remember the first time I looked up to see you holding the door to Ware Hall for throngs of students rushing to class in 2009. I will never forget how I felt ten years later, when I walked into the State House in November 2019 to see you standing side by side with Merritt Levitan's family and friends as then-Governor Baker signed Hands Free MA into law.

I'm so grateful to have started my Trustee service during your last year--to have once again witnessed the love you show your people and the love that your people have for you.

With endless gratitude to you and Nancy.

Osaremen Okolo, Class of 2013

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Todd, We can't thank you enough for all that you have given to Milton these past 14 years. You were a pillar of stability and kindness in a tumultuous almost decade and a half.  From being our Head of School as students, to our leader and colleague as staff members here, you have been such an inspiration for what modern leadership can look like. Always principled, with a generosity of spirit, you led with genuine care and a deep-seated desire to do right by the entire community. You always led by example for what it looks like to seamlessly integrate your family with the Milton community and we are so grateful for the entire Bland family's selflessness and commitment. The immensity of what Todd, Nancy, and the Bland family gave to this school is almost incalculable. We will miss you so much, but we are so thrilled for you to have this next chapter.
With deep gratitude,
Molly Gilmore '12 & Chris Lewis '15

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Cheers to a classy couple! You will both be missed! Sarah White Bournakel '87

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Todd (wow, that feels weird),

Thank you so much for everything you have done for me, but more importantly Milton, over the years. You provided a rare example of effective and engaging leadership for us all to model as we go off into the world - personable, honest, yet still willing to have fun when the opportunity presents itself. Joining Milton the same year you started, taking classes and playing sports with Nick, and learning Spanish from Mrs. Bland, have all given me an experience with you and the whole Bland family that few were lucky enough to enjoy. Congratulations and thank you for everything you have done for Milton over the past 14 years, and best of luck on your future endeavors - I am sure they will be nothing short of amazing.

Matt S. '13

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Thank you for leading such a caring and vibrant community! As parents, we are grateful to see our daughter thrives in the big Milton family. We miss your speech, love to our school, caring to our children and everything you've done to Milton.

Enjoy your retired life and welcome to China!

Elizabeth Na P'26

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Throughout June you can give show appreciation for Todd's impact and support Milton through the Shout-Out to Todd Challenge with a gift to the Milton Fund!

https://give.milton.edu/shout-out-to-todd-challenge

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From the first ice creams on the Quad, through a series of challenges unlike any that Milton has faced in its history, and now as you leave the Academy in such good shape, thank you for all that you have done for a place that means so much to so many of us.  You've done it all, for all of the members of the community, and our appreciation for your service will only grow as we reflect on your time at Milton.  Thank you for all of the insights and advice you've offered me, thank you for taking such good care of the school and the faculty who did so much for me and my class, and I wish your family and you all the best for what comes next!

Jonas Peter Akins '97

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Mr. Bland, thank you will never be enough for how grateful I am to have gotten to know you as a student and now into adulthood. Your family has and will always be an important part of our lives and we can't wait to see what your next chapter uncovers! Cheers to an amazing career at Milton!
-Jon Franco '12

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Thank you so much, Mr. Bland! All my well wishes. ~Jess Rush, class of 2019

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Thank you so much, Mr. Bland! All my well wishes. ~Jess Rush, class of 2019

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Dear Todd,
You Came, You Saw, You Conquered. The world is a better place because Milton Academy is better for your leadership. The tests were passed, the pandemic conquered. Joy reappeared. Our two grandchildren flourished during the Bland years. Thank you for them. "Faire Forwarde Traveler".
Best wishes,
Ross Sherbrooke '54 and Kathleen

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14 years of caring, compassion, hard work, inspiring, collaboration and vision. These words barely touch the depth of Todd's leadership. He brought Dare to Be True back to the Milton spirit, brought financial stability and modernized the school facilities. Todd touch everyone with his kindness. We are proud to have Todd as an honorary member of the Class of 58. Best wishes Doug Crocker past Trustee and Class of 58

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14 years of caring, compassion, hard work, inspiring, collaboration and vision. These words barely touch the depth of Todd's leadership. He brought Dare to Be True back to the Milton spirit, brought financial stability and modernized the school facilities. Todd touch everyone with his kindness. We are proud to have Todd as an honorary member of the Class of 58. Best wishes Doug Crocker past Trustee and Class of 58

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Thank you Mr. Bland for being such a great presence and exemplifying what it means to lead by example during your time at Milton. You encouraged your students and peers to reach their potential in a way that was uniquely kind. I wish you all the best in your next endeavors, whatever they may be they will be lucky to have you!
- Cassandra Rice '15

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Congratulations Todd,  I know that Milton will greatly miss you and what a pleasure it was for me to spend time chatting last Spring during our 65th (Yikes!) Reunion.  Here’s to hopefully crossing paths again when you might be visiting Lloyd Byrne at Squam!  GREAT JOB!
Lisa Graves Wardlaw '57

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Dear Todd:

It was a pleasure and a privilege to have you serve as Head of School for Milton Academy during the last 14 years.  Your leadership has been exemplary during a very turbulent time for the Milton community (and the greater Boston area).  Thank you for your diligence, your professionalism and your caring and compassionate heart.

It was a pleasure to know you.  I regret that the pandemic has prevented us from interacting in person over the last three plus (3+) years.  I always enjoyed speaking with you during your visits to Washington, DC.

I wish you success in your future endeavors.  All the best to you and your family.

Sincerely,
Serene D. Charles, Esq. ´76

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Thank you, Todd for being the best leader the Milton community could have asked for. When it comes to connecting with students, faculty, and community members, I am confident there are none who have done it better. It’s hard to imagine Milton without you steering the ship - best of luck in this next chapter!

Collin van der Veen
Milton ‘16

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Todd, you have been so wonderful bringing tales of today's Milton progress to the west coast. I always looked forward to your annual visit. Good luck and Godspeed. Rupert Hitzig '56

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Todd, you have been so wonderful bringing tales of today's Milton progress to the west coast. I always looked forward to your annual visit. Good luck and Godspeed. Rupert Hitzig '56

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I remember when you started your tenure at Milton. You brought such fresh, vibrant energy to the school. You made us students feel seen and valued, and you seemed to genuinely delight in getting to know as many of us as you could. Now, years later, I understand just how big of a reach the Head of School needs to have  throughout Milton’s national and international networks. I appreciate your commitment to meeting students and their families where they are, and inviting them to participate in shaping Milton’s future.

Wishing you and your family the best as you enter into your next chapter!

Jovonna Jones, ‘11

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We will always appreciate your investment and support of the football team. We will never forget the speeches you would share with us. You had such a great impact on all of us wether you realize it or not. In an environment where athletics seems to become less and less of a priority, you always made us feel like we were important to the school and doing something great. We will miss you Mr. Bland and you will never be replaced!
- The Football Team

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Thank you, Todd! Your genuine charisma and warm smile has a lasting impact on Milton. I am forever grateful I directly benefitted from your leadership at Milton. You made me proud to fly our Orange and Blue. I hope you continue to fly the colors too.
- Sarah Evans '12

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Todd, from the moment we met 12 years ago in Palo Alto, I knew you were a truly special human. It's been an honor to serve on the Board of Trustees with you, and to have witnessed first-hand your incredible stewardship of our school.

You are an inspiration.

Thank you for your leadership, your vision, your empathy, and your friendship. Please do hit me up whenever you're out in the Bay!

Erick Tseng '97

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I remember starting Milton as a nervous 13-year-old and not knowing how (or if) I would fit in, but seeing you greeting people outside the ACC before Monday assembly gave me the reassurance I needed to start off my high school career right. Thank you for being such an anchor for Milton through my 4 years and beyond!

Nick O'Toole '17

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The calm before the launch of the Dare campaign

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Thank you for your many years of incredible leadership, Todd! Milton has, and always will, hold a special place in my heart. Having experienced Milton's magic as a student, alum, and eventually a member of the staff (twice!), my appreciation for the place and the ways it has touched my life is profound. You have done so much to leave it a stronger and better place than how you found it and it was an honor, and a lot of fun, to serve under you. To this day, one of my most proud professional moments was launching the Dare campaign with our amazing team. Thanks again for all you have done and best of luck in your next chapter. Please stay in touch! With Gratitude, Kristin Ostrem Donelan '99

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Thank you Mr. Bland for your undying commitment and care for the Milton community! It’s been a privilege to learn and grow under your leadership. We are grateful! We wish you the best in this next chapter.

The Oladipo Family ’08 ’10 ’17 ‘19 ‘24

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Reunion 2018 with my grandsons Oskar and Holden and cousin Todd

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Cousin Todd, or Toddy Bear, as my daughter named him 30 + years ago, thank you for your nuanced leadership during a challenging time. Hoping to see more of you and Nancy when you travel to the Northwest. Annie Munch '68

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Dear Todd,

You made time in your busy schedule to meet with me when I needed some direction. You gave me invaluable advice, introduced me to fellow Bowdoin Polar Bear Michael Early, and helped me find my way. I am now very happy and proud to say I have found my calling and I am grateful to you for your contribution.

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Todd,
Grateful for the opportunity to come back and share a bit of my life story with the place that so fundamentally shaped it. I have this picture framed and it brings me right back to that incredible memory. Thank you again, from me and my entire family, for your tireless dedication to Milton. Please keep in touch!

-Pete Colombo '04

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Todd,

I'm not sure if it's more fun to write this note or to read everyone else's notes.

Since my early days at Milton, I have had a profound love for this school.  And all your accomplishments during your tenure have only increased my feelings of respect and admiration for you and this beloved institution.

While some of your predecessors have focused on a few areas, you have improved every aspect, including academics, teaching, administration, facilities, the "Milton brand," fundraising, and the caliber of students and their well-being.

You have had to navigate through some rough seas, doing so with humility, grace, and a clear grasp of where the School needed to go, while respecting Milton's many constituencies, some of whom might not agree with your choices -- at least not initially.  But, each outcome made Milton a better and stronger community.  And all of us are grateful for your leadership.

I wish you nothing but the best and hope you will stay in touch.

Sincerely,
Matt Hoffman '78

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I think we've shared more interactions after my graduating, but every visit back to campus I made sure to pop by your office to say hi. From your arrival at Milton, I've always felt a sense of true curiosity and growth. Teaching and learning are central to Milton's identity and it has been inspiring to hear of the various ways both have been structurally supported over the years. Embracing the joy of a diverse student body, staff, and faculty, instead of letting fears of change hinder positive growth. I wish you the best in your family and future endeavors Mr. Bland. Thank you for Daring to Be True!

-Joe Reynolds '11

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You are a class act. Thank you for leadership and poise. It has been an honor getting to know you.
Meika Neblett ‘90 and Board of Trustees

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Todd, What a light!! Your energy, kindness, and positivity have filled the room at each event I have attended. Thanks for making CA Alum visits a priority to keep us updated on how Milton has grown and changed with your wonderful leadership. Best wishes to you for the next adventures. Wendy Millet ‘86

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Thank you Todd for your mentorship and guidance ... what a journey, and I am truly grateful for your support and wisdom. The legacy you leave at Milton is unmatched and the impact you had on so many is great. I know Nancy and you will enjoy this next chapter!
Cheers, Peter Curran '97

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Dear Todd
It has been a real privilege to have known you these past 14 years. Through thick and thin you have been an inspiration to the entire Putnam family. Many many thanks for being a fearless leader, warm listener and cheerleader throughout the years. Sophia and Ky truly benefited from having you at the helm.
Heather Putnam 1961

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On behalf of the MAGUS of 1954 thank you for your dedicated guidance of all the Milton students during your tenure. Jean W. Childs '54

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On behalf of the MAGUS of 1954 thank you for your dedicated guidance of all the Milton students during your tenure. Jean W. Childs '54

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Your first year coincided with my freshman year– how fast has time flown by.

While I have many memories with you, I will never forget when you found out that I was going to Bowdoin– your alma mater– and immediately went back to your office to give me a Polar Bear tie. You welcomed me both to the Milton and Bowdoin community.

Thank you so much for being such a warm presence during my time on campus and even when I have come back to Milton on several occasions. You remind us all to continue to dare to be true. Best of luck on your next step!

K-Ma '13

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Just this week I saw Todd unloading Lower School students from their parents' cars at drop-off, holding open the doors of the ACC and greeting everyone as they came for an all-school assembly, attentively viewing an Engineering class's final project presentations, and asking questions at a warm-up panel before the Humanities Workshop's Student Conference.  Todd makes running a K-12 institution look easy and fun!  We will miss seeing your smiling face all over campus, as well as the inspiring, comforting, and genuine words that you share with us so often.  Good luck in all your future endeavors, and don't be a stranger!
- Katharine Millet '00, P'31, P'34, US Faculty

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Todd,
Thanks for a great chapter of leadership at Milton.  I have appreciated your communication to alumni over the years and your positive energy though the challenges. My father, Nile Albright '57, proudly and wears his Milton baseball hat while on the Nobles campus despite his grandsons playing for Nobles.  He is a loyal alum!   I am so glad you will be part of the Epiphany School Trustee Board and I will get a chance to see you on the other side of your days leading Milton.
- Martina Albright '86

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Thank you so much, Todd , for all that you have done for Milton! You have made my experience as an alumna and my daughter Alex's experience as a student invaluable. We will miss you. Good luck and enjoy your free time!

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Thank you so much, Todd , for all that you have done for Milton! You have made my experience as an alumna and my daughter Alex's experience as a student invaluable. We will miss you. Good luck and enjoy your free time!

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-Kathleen Lintz Rein '92

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You have served in the tradition of the finest independent school headmasters and should be very proud. Best wishes, Charles P. Bolton, ‘60, former trustee.

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The best years (except for my own) of Milton's history have been under your wonderful, sensitive guidance, Todd.  We all have been extremely fortunate to have had you.  And I know I speak for my classmates of the great year 1954.    David Ehrlich

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The best years (except for my own) of Milton's history have been under your wonderful, sensitive guidance, Todd.  We all have been extremely fortunate to have had you.  And I know I speak for my classmates of the great year 1954.    David Ehrlich

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Todd,
I would like to express my gratitude for your exceptional leadership and dedication in guiding Milton Academy for the past 14 years. Your contributions have undoubtedly made a profound impact on the institution, and you will be remembered with great admiration and appreciation. It's evident that your love and care for Milton is as strong as that of the fondest Alumni.
Mark Paresky '89

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Congratulations on a lasting legacy and impactful career at Milton! We are so lucky to have benefitted from your leadership while at Milton. Wishing your whole family the best in this new chapter.
Isabel '13 & Rob O'Gara '12

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I remember when you first started at Milton and you brought such a great energy to the school. I appreciate all of the hard work you’ve done over the years and I wish you the best.

-Melissa Santos-Howard
Class of 2010

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Thank you for your kind, stable and wise leadership over the years. Anne Brewer '66

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Thank you for your kind, stable and wise leadership over the years. Anne Brewer '66

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Congratulations Todd on leaving Milton a far better school than when you arrived.

Sincerely,

Bayard Henry ‘49

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Thank you for all that you have done for Milton!
Faith Lewis Johnson 1961
Cambridge, England

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Dear Todd: Your 14-year Milton tenure has been transformative even during times of crisis, both globally and for individuals. Thank you for all that you have done!
Warmest wishes, Christine Sang (Goodwin House) '80

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Mr. Bland, thank you for your leadership in shaping Milton into the place it is and will continue to be!  We are all lucky to have had you guide our school, show up at our sports games, hold the doors for us, and rock the orange and blue bowtie.  Best wishes in your next chapter.

-Travis Sheldon '12

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Todd, thank you for the love and energy you poured into Milton Academy as its leader. Your welcoming demeanor made us feel as if we were returning "home" at every reunion and return to campus. We were incredibly fortunate to have you at the helm and know you will be missed. We wish you and your family all the best and hope our paths cross in the future.

Thank you,
Caitlin (Flint) Walsh '02 and Michael Walsh '01

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I’ll always remember your warm welcome on revisit day when I was in 8th grade. Your leadership throughout my time at Milton helped make my experience as meaningful as it was. Best of luck in your next chapter!

Best,
Nat Deacon, ‘16

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Many thanks for your excellent leadership of Milton through these challenging times. Your 14 years has been such a blessing to Milton and all of her alumni. Bob Hubby Class 57

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Many thanks for your excellent leadership of Milton through these challenging times. Your 14 years has been such a blessing to Milton and all of her alumni. Bob Hubby Class 57

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What a wonderful place Milton Academy was for our family, thanks to your tremendous leadership. Wishing you & Nancy an enjoyable retirement as you hopefully get to spend more time with your family. Thank you, Todd!
Jeff ‘76 & Jean P’17 Piazza

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It was fun getting to know a little about you and your family over the years.  I wish the best in your life after Milton. Thanks for your great leadership of my alma mater.
Best,
Reed Pavan, Class of '64

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Mr. Bland, thank you for your leadership and support of the Milton community. It has been wonderful to learn from you over the last 14 years years. Thank you for always remembering your students and helping us grow as both individuals and as a school community!

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You are the best Mr. Bland and whatever life brings on next will be amazing. You impact people like no one else I know! Forever grateful to have you as a friend.
Jake Thibeault '22

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Thank you for all that you have done for the school. You care for everyone in the community and have made a lasting impact on many people. We are very grateful.
-Wilder Crosier '21

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Mr. Bland’s undying commitment to each and every student was evident through his presence at every single sporting event, theater production, and performance of any kind. He made every student feel seen and cared about as he held the door open every Monday morning for assembly, looked each and every student in the eye and asked so genuinely how they were doing. Mr. Bland is truly one of the most thoughtful people I have ever met, and the Milton community was undoubtedly lucky to have him.

Zoe Katz ‘20

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Todd, thank you for leading Milton all these years.  Though by the time you came to Milton I was no longer I student, I appreciate the fact you made an effort to befriend me as an alumnus.  This effort you made to befriend me showed you cared about each and every member of the Milton family as the head of it.  Milton is a better place because of your tenure as the leader of the school.  You have left your legacy at Milton.  I wish you well in all your future endeavors.
Kwaku (Solomon) Asare 1994

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Todd:
What an amazing job you have done!! I'm class of '91 and P'22 and I still remember the first Alumni Reception when we all had a chance to meet you. Milton has benefitted from your leadership, charisma, genuine care for the students, respect for the faculty and underlying passion for all things Milton. Thanks doesn't quite seem enough!  We will miss you and wish you all the best with your next adventures!
- Kate Brooks Leness

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Mr. Bland,

Thank you for everything you brought to Milton! All of efforts went so far beyond unnoticed, and you did all of the little things to keep the faculty, student body and community happy. If I could count on one fan for being at all of the games it would have been Mr. Bland fully decked out in orange and blue!!! Wishing you the best of luck in all of your future endeavors!

-Lilly Stoller ’22

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I am so grateful to have served under you, Todd! You were an incredible leader and someone I looked up to every day. You started off every interaction with an expression of gratitude -- this is something that I have embraced in my own life and work. I learned so much from you on how to lead with kindness, compassion, and authenticity. Thank you!!

I wish you and Nancy the very best in your future endeavors and do hope that our paths cross again one day soon. Because of the opportunity you provided me, I will forever bleed orange and blue! Go 'Stangs!

In gratitude,
Matthew Fishbein

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Your leadership has brought fresh winds to a school that has so much potential. You have skillfully noticed that potential for the past 14 years and brought the best to Milton Academy. "Dare to be True" is a fine motto for our school and one that you have promoted throughout the Milton campus and its students. Thank you!
Wishing you fairwinds as you sail into your next adventure.
Barb Williams class of 1960.

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Mr. Bland truly wanted you to be happy and successful. He wasn’t just being nice as part of the job title.  I was really nervous about public speaking but one evening at chapel I spoke to the boarding community about Diwali, and afterwards Mr. Bland literally came to find me at my dorm, Millet, to thank me for my speech and bring me a piece of chocolate. I will never forget that somebody cared enough to do that. I work in education now myself, for teenagers with autism; so it is especially important to imbue everything I do with love and care, because my students won’t necessarily pick it up through words. I feel like I’m able to do what I do because I watched Mr. Bland do it for the entire school. -Mallika Iyer ‘13. 

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Mr. Bland truly wanted you to be happy and successful. He wasn’t just being nice as part of the job title.  I was really nervous about public speaking but one evening at chapel I spoke to the boarding community about Diwali, and afterwards Mr. Bland literally came to find me at my dorm, Millet, to thank me for my speech and bring me a piece of chocolate. I will never forget that somebody cared enough to do that. I work in education now myself, for teenagers with autism; so it is especially important to imbue everything I do with love and care, because my students won’t necessarily pick it up through words. I feel like I’m able to do what I do because I watched Mr. Bland do it for the entire school. -Mallika Iyer ‘13. 

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What an amazing job you have done! Thank you for your stewardship, especially through the challenges instigated by a world wide pandemic. I also want to send a special shout out to Nancy for her constant support as well. All the best to you on your next adventure. Come visit Fort Collins! Best Wishes, Joanie Brewster 1982

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Todd - Thanks for all of your efforts at Milton. Love seeing the school thrive under your stewardship. And it's been wonderful to get to know you over the last few years. Best of luck with whatever is next!!

- fazal yameen '02

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Todd –

I honestly don't know what to say besides: you have been an incredible example of the best of Milton. I have loved every interaction with you and knowing that you were there taking care of my brother during his four years at Milton made me breathe easier.

I hope the best of your past is the worst of your future. And I also hope you take a nice long break.

-Kurt Collins, '97

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The Class of 1958 is proud to have you (via your parents) in our midst and your inspiration to and guidance of Milton has been remarkable! Good luck and remember our reunions happen any time a year ends in an ‘8’ or a ‘3’!
Cheers and love, Ted Wendell ‘58

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I never know what to title these things. 

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I never know what to title these things. 

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We didn’t know each other well, so I don’t have anything spectacular. But in hindsight, it would have been the right decision to cultivate more of a relationship with you because I did always feel a certain connection to you as Headmaster (and later as my Senior Transitions Advisor). It stems from the fact that my mom still boasts about how (and I quote) the *only* reason you became Headmaster is because of my sister, Cara’s, amazing tour and charm. She’s very proud. But all good things do, apparently, eventually come to an end. Good luck on the next step in your journey, thank you, and farewell (from Milton).

-Marcus Guenther (2016)

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member, class of 1958

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Thank you, Todd, for all the things that you have done for Milton and for the Milton community in Hong Kong in the past 14 years. Milton has truly grown beautifully under your leadership, and we shall miss you.

Prudence Tsang '98

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2023_0418_Todd Speaking with Milton Flag

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Todd: It has been such a pleasure meeting with you on many occasions to discuss the future of Milton, strategies, admissions, and our mutual connections - both in LA, and in Milton. I wish all the best to you and your family in your next chapter. Thank you for all you have done for Milton.
Cheers! Susan D. Evans ‘84

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It seems to me that the most important attribute of a leader/spokesperson/member of a tribe or family or organization is their moral compass.  Todd has exemplified this in his tenure at Milton.  Thank you.  —Ella Clark ‘58, 3xparent, 1 x grandparent

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It seems to me that the most important attribute of a leader/spokesperson/member of a tribe or family or organization is their moral compass.  Todd has exemplified this in his tenure at Milton.  Thank you.  —Ella Clark ‘58, 3xparent, 1 x grandparent

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Todd: I thought that you were the best Head of School in my memory and am sad to see you go. Best wishes to you and your family for what you do next after some traveling, and I hope that you bring back a camel to remind you of your Milton experience. Sandy Batchelder '50

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It has been my great pleasure to meet/chat/listen to you update Milton at various Alumni meetings in the Boston area.  You have brought Milton Academy a very long way.  I especially remember a student discussion group that I attended during one of my class reunions.  The students all talked freely and positively about issues concerning race.

Since you were a friend, lacrosse player and teammate of my son Lloyd, that makes you even more special!

My best wishes to you in your future,
Mitzi Marsh, '56 P'82 P'83

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Todd:

I'm class of '86 as well as a current parent, and I have greatly appreciated your leadership.  I think that you and Dave Ball have been the strongest and most thoughtful leaders Milton has had in the past 40 years (at least).  The school is in great shape now, largely through your efforts, and you are leaving big shoes to fill.  Best of luck going forward!

-Adam Bookbinder '86 P '20, '26

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Dear Todd,

Thank you for guiding a school I hold most dear. I also thank you for your kindness and care with regard to FDM.
You navigate deep waters and strong currents with love and practicality.
Thank you for leaving Milton in a better place than you found it.

May you and Nancy enjoy the next chapter of your lives.

Suzie Hurd Greenup ’75, P ’02 and P ’06

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I have had the pleasure of talking to Todd Bland and Matt Fishbein about the future of Milton Academy. Through the great efforts of the development office and Todd Bland's leadership, Milton Academy is well positioned  to face the future of education. Thank you Todd for your 14 years of dedication to "Dare to be True"
John Barbour '71

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I , (Mary Putnam Mitchell,  ’65) first met Todd at the Lawrence Academy - Milton Football game. While watching, a young man came by. I asked him if he knew where the new Head of School was as I’d like to meet him. “That would be me.” Totally embarrassed, we had a nice conversation!

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What an honor it is to be your daughter. I’m so grateful for the past 14 years. Your Milton journey has been wonderful, and I thank you for supporting my own Milton journey as well 🧡💙 You’re an inspiration, dad! 

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What an honor it is to be your daughter. I’m so grateful for the past 14 years. Your Milton journey has been wonderful, and I thank you for supporting my own Milton journey as well 🧡💙 You’re an inspiration, dad! 

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I remember once emailing Todd with a question or suggestion, and assuming he’d read it and might just respond, with a polite and anodyne message. Instead, I received a video from Todd at his desk, with that warm smile, giving me a personal, thorough response. This was emblematic of all my encounters with him at reunions. The man is a mensch and we have been very lucky to have him. The school has grown in capability, plant, and renown during his tenure.  All the best in your future endeavors, Todd, and thank you so much for all you have done for Milton!
- Marc Goodman ’88

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One of the best moments of my life! So honored to be your daughter. 

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Todd: I’ve been so impressed by your work at Milton. Thanks for all you have done for the school and its community and
for ensuring a seamless transition for Milton’s future leaders. I always love seeing your mom at reunions too. All the best, Connie Pendleton ’88

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As I mentioned when I saw you in Hong Kong, thank you very for everything you have done to keep Milton in the top tier, after a period of challenges.  You truly addressed the key success factors about what makes Milton great and the short term issues that potentially could cause us to loose our way.

You and the entire Milton team persevered and I am so proud of the institution Milton is and can become.

David

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Milton gave so much when I was a student. Returning last Spring for my 70th reunion, I had the chance  to hear Todd speak, sat with him at lunch and began to appreciate how much he has contributed to the school.
Charles Walcott '52

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Todd Bland’s successful tenure as Milton’s Head of School is the result of a unique blend of talents, says former Board of Trustees President Lisa Donohue ’83.

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Todd Bland's successful tenure as Milton's Head of School is the result of a unique blend of talents, says former Board of Trustees President Lisa Donohue '83. I still remember the moment as if it were yesterday. Spring of 2008, and I was a new trustee at Milton Academy, participating in my first official vote.

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During both good times and challenging times in his 14-year tenure, Head of School Todd Bland brought the Milton community together.

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During both good times and challenging times in his 14-year tenure, Head of School Todd Bland brought the Milton community together. Story by Marisa Donelan Photographs by John Huet One of the first tributes came during a night filled with laughter.

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Head of School Todd Bland departs Milton with gratitude for a community full of generosity and caring.

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"Let's go football! Go field hockey! Go soccer! Go cross country!" The pep rally leaders were a cyclone of energy, hyping up their peers to support the athletes about to compete that weekend. Then, without skipping a beat: "Let's hear it for the robotics team! Give it up for speech and debate!"

If the shift from athletics to stem and performance teams registered with anyone in the audience, they didn't show it. Each group received raucous applause. For Milton students, recognizing athletic prowess in the same breath as other skills was seamless and natural. For me, it was one moment-out of thousands of similar moments-to witness something our students do with astonishing regularity and enthusiasm: celebrate each other.

Every year since I became head of school at Milton, I have guest-taught in classes at all 13 grade levels. It's not only a window into the transformative work of our faculty, it's an opportunity to see our students in their truest form, as empathetic and compassionate young people who are as caring as they are smart, as generous as they are ambitious. As my time in this role nears its end, and I reflect on the lessons I take from this place, I know that the love students show one another has left an indelible mark. Their celebration in good times and their determination in hard times has made me a better leader and Milton a better school. Whether they're packing theaters for performances or asking thoughtful questions around the Harkness table, Milton kids show up for one another.

Milton has built an environment where students feel comfortable sharing their whole selves: their talents and interests, their cultural and family traditions, and their forays into new experiences. Students who enter the school planning to play three seasons of sports end up on stage in musical productions; kids with exceptional math and science skills find ways to express themselves in art. What feels remarkable about our school-and what fills me with hope for our future-is how ready and generous they are with praise for one another. They honor opportunities to learn from peers with differing life stories. Yes, they are competitive, as high-achieving students tend to be, but not at the expense of their classmates. They push themselves and root for others.

Students were the deciding factor in my coming to Milton. I had opportunities during my hiring process to meet the kids, to talk with them about the school and their interests. Their diversity, not just in their identities but in their passions and talents, was a critical hook for me. Even then, Milton had long been committed to enrolling a range of students from all walks of life- something we've continued to expand each year, and each one has something to teach all of us.

"Dare to be true" is more than a motto when it comes to this community. Milton students are honest and tenacious in the face of challenges and injustice. They come to our ongoing discussions about what diversity, equity, and inclusion mean at Milton with open hearts and open minds. Without the frank perspective of students of color, particularly Black and Latinx students, the significant progress we have made would have taken much longer or stalled completely. Similarly, transgender and nonbinary students have shared critical perspectives that have informed new policies and programs for students of all genders. The thoughtfulness, care, and commitment of all our students continually moves us toward a more inclusive environment. It's not lost on me that for many of these students and the alumni who echo their stories, sharing experiences of not be- longing or feeling unseen has been painful. I have tremendous gratitude for them and for the allies who have lifted their voices. One thing I have noted while listening to these stories is that almost every single one of them is rooted in love: love for diverse cultures, love for one another, love for future generations of students, and love for Milton, even when it's hard.

I often urge our students to love one another. Sometimes they cringe. Maybe it's a little corny, and maybe it prompts some eye-rolls-especially from the teenagers-but there is no doubt in my mind that Milton students do love each other, whether they use the word or not.

In the ways that they encourage, fight for, and laugh with their peers, Milton kids fill this campus with love every day. Whether it's our youngest students greeting others with hugs or our older students championing their friends' unique identities and talents, I have been lucky to witness expressions and acts of love at Milton for 14 years. Even when they're angry with each other or frustrated with the institution, they choose love. It's a lesson I hope we can all take from these students: Keep loving one another. Keep loving Milton. I know I always will.

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"Let's go football! Go field hockey! Go soccer! Go cross country!" The pep rally leaders were a cyclone of energy, hyping up their peers to support the athletes about to compete that weekend. Then, without skipping a beat: "Let's hear it for the robotics team! Give it up for speech and debate!"

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Join us in sharing your well-wishes, messages of gratitude, memories, photos, or short video messages in your own shout-out for Todd! Click the plus-sign icon in the lower right corner to post or email your tribute to Lindsay Villone, Senior Engagement Officer at Lindsay_Villone@milton.edu.

Be sure to sign your post with your name and class year!