Col. Myron C. Harrington: 1938-2025

Remembering Col. Myron Harrington: A Leader, Mentor, and Friend

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Col. Myron Harrington, our beloved former Headmaster, who served Trident Academy with unwavering dedication and passion for fifteen transformative years, from 1992 to 2007. He passed away peacefully on February 19, 2025, leaving a legacy that will forever shape our school.

As many of you know, Mr. Harrington was more than just an administrator; he was a visionary leader, a mentor, and a friend to countless students, faculty, and families. His commitment to Trident Academy was profound, and his impact was immeasurable.

During his tenure, Mr. Harrington fostered a nurturing and supportive environment where every child felt valued and empowered to reach their full potential. He believed in the unique abilities of each student and worked tirelessly to provide them with the tools and encouragement they needed to succeed. His strong yet compassionate leadership created the sense of community that continues to define Trident Academy today.

Betsy Fanning, now in her tenth year as Trident’s Head of School, recently shared stories in our newsletter about Mr. Harrington’s remarkable contributions. She highlighted his deep care for the mission of Trident Academy that he poured his heart and soul into making it a better place for kids who learn differently.

Stories from former colleagues: 

• I started my part time work in the business office at the same time that Myron Harrington started as Headmaster. Over the years, I came to realize that he was the best kind of leader – wanting the best for all those around him, encouraging growth and achievement, taking responsibility – and was also a southern gentleman. Myron truly took care of our school and the people connected to it. He would come into the business office saying he was “spending money like a drunken sailor,” when he usually wanted to talk through his ideas with us before making a decision. Myron would talk about "coming in late and leaving early," but that was not his way. He rarely missed greeting the children with a handshake as they arrived in the morning, and he often set the alarm as the last to leave the building at the end of the day.
  Mary Owczarek, Retired Business Manager
   
• Mr. Harrington, as he was known by students, faculty, and families, was known to walk the halls following lunch each day, peering into classrooms to see what was happening. During his time as Headmaster, he patiently taught students how to hoist, lower, and fold the United States flag; crowned homecoming queens; directed traffic; chaperoned overnight field trips; and refereed faculty-student volleyball games. Mr. Harrington accomplished all of this while also directing our school through numerous strategic plans and fundraising campaigns, one of which resulted in the construction of the science wing in 2002.
  Betsy Fanning, Current Head of School 
   
• Myron Harrington was simply the best boss anyone could ask for. On special occasions, he would treat us to outings at the yacht club, creating cherished memories. One Christmas, Myron surprised us with the most generous raise we had ever received, a testament to his appreciation of us and our efforts. Beyond his generosity, Myron was an extraordinary storyteller. He would captivate us with tales of his time serving in Vietnam, sharing both poignant moments that brought tears to his eyes and humorous anecdotes that filled the room with laughter– like the time he realized his cigar was backwards during a bombardment. Myron was the epitome of sweetness, kindness, and generosity. I loved him and his family dearly, and I will miss him immensely.
  Lael Byrd, Retired Office Manager

These stories, along with numerous anecdotes shared by Mr. Harrington’s colleagues, paint a vivid picture of a man who truly cared about the well-being and success of every member of our school community. His impact is still felt throughout our campus, most visibly in the gymnasium that proudly bears his name.

Mr. Harrington’s dedication extended beyond the grounds of Trident Academy. As his obituary reflects, he was a devoted family man, a man of faith, and a proud veteran who served our country with honor. His commitment to service was evident in everything he did.

In honor of Mr. Harrington’s memory, we want to remind our community of the Myron and Ann Harrington Scholarship, established by our Board of Trustees upon his retirement as a lasting tribute to his fifteen years of dedicated service to Trident Academy.

This scholarship is awarded annually to a student who embodies the values of integrity and hard work that Col. Harrington exemplified not only as the Trident Academy Headmaster, but also in his years of service to our country. It serves as a testament to his belief in the potential of every student and his commitment to fostering their growth. We encourage those who wish to honor Mr. Harrington's legacy to consider contributing to this meaningful scholarship. 

We offer our deepest condolences to Mr. Harrington's family and friends, and we join together in celebrating his remarkable life and legacy. We are grateful for his incredible leadership and the lasting impact he had on Trident Academy.