Students Dedicate 2015-2016 Yearbook to Rick McWilliams for His 40 Years of Service

"It was an easy decision because we are all so grateful for Mr. McWilliams' impact on Millbrook, " said Harry Simons '17 during the announcement.

Members of yearbook community service worked with the Communications Department to create a video for McWilliams, which was presented during assembly. Students in the video touched on many of the ways that McWilliams has impacted their lives, as well as the lives of alumni, through his teaching, coaching, and mentoring.

Visit Millbrook in Motion to watch the video that was presented in honor of Rick McWilliams.

We also invite you to leave a thoughtful message or memory for Rick after watching the video.

Rick McWliliams and Millbrook:
Having been with Millbrook since 1976, Rick McWilliams is one of Millbrook’s longest tenured and most admired faculty members. As a member of the art department, he taught drawing, painting, print making, and photography throughout his 40-plus years. Rick’s father was an illustrator who worked from his studio at home. Drawings, paintings, and photography surrounded him throughout his childhood. “I grew up believing everyone could do art,” says Rick. He has carried this philosophy to the classroom where he enjoys watching students discover and develop their artistic talents.

McWilliams has brought that same “can-do-it” attitude to the soccer field for over 40 years. “I love the first days of practice when the new combination of soccer players arrives at Millbrook. Some kids are skilled in soccer, and others might never have played at this level,” he has said. As a coach, McWilliams’ vision and leadership has resulted in the boys varsity soccer team earning over 300 career wins, 13 WNEPSSA Class C championships, and numerous New England Tournament appearances. The team captured the New England Championships in 2013, 2012, 2011, 2009, and 1997, and has been a runner-up finalist three times. With his strong passion for art and soccer, it is no surprise that he links his success in both teaching and coaching together, “the starting point, whether it be in the classroom or on the field, can be likened to a blank canvas, that most definitely will at some point, become a work of art.”

Rick was engaged to his wife, Cindy McWilliams, our now director of the annual fund and alumni/constituent relations, when he came to Millbrook in 1976, and she joined him on campus in 1977 after their marriage. Their children, Carly McWilliams ’05, and Trevor McWilliams ’01, are both Millbrook School alumni.

Millbrook School is grateful for Rick’s time and passion, he has undoubtably touched the lives of many during his tenure and he will be missed as he moves onward to this new chapter in his life. Thank you, Rick!