Spotlight: John McClintock II '57

Alumni Spotlight: John McClintock II '57

A Legacy of Leadership and Scholarship

This Spotlight was written and published in November 2024, prior to John's passing in January 2025. It was our pleasure to interview John and share his story. 

John T. McClintock II, an Albany native and a distinguished member of The Albany Academy Class of 1957, dedicated his life to service, education, and history. John earned a reputation for academic excellence and leadership as a student here, graduating third in his class as Cadet Major, captain of the soccer team, and a member and eventual president of the local chapter of the Cum Laude Society.

After The Albany Academy, John continued his education with a bachelor’s degree in history at Harvard and pursued Slavic Studies at Indiana University. His academic journey was briefly interrupted by his service in the U.S. Army, where he became a Second Lieutenant. Upon his return to civilian life, John joined The Albany Academy as a teacher and college counselor, making a lasting impact until 1971. Recognized for his dedication to education, John received Albany County’s Outstanding Young Teacher Award in 1969. He taught at several prominent institutions, including University School Milwaukee and Francis W. Parker School, and earned a master’s degree at Harvard.

John’s passion for education extended into authorship and historical preservation. His publications, such as “100 Top Colleges” and “Our Academy,” showcase his dedication to both education and Albany’s rich heritage. His archival work, preserving Albany Academy’s history, earned him the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2017 and later, Faculty Emeritus status.

In an interview, John shared memories of his cadet experience and credited The Albany Academy with instilling discipline and intellectual rigor. He reflected on how his history teacher, David Midgley, inspired a lifelong commitment to organization, accuracy, and respect for the past. As an archivist, John went to great lengths to preserve and share the school’s history, a project that has kept The Albany Academy legacy alive for future generations.

John embraced the Academy’s growth and changes, especially the transition to coeducation, which he believes reflects the school’s adaptability. His advice to current students, alumni, and alumnae? Embrace change, pursue intellectual interests, and push boundaries. His legacy at Albany Academy is one of leadership, scholarship, and a deep commitment to both history and progress, inspiring all who walk the Academy’s halls.