A Tribute to former Headmaster and Executive Director, Richard McDonald

The Aiglon College community was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Headmaster and Executive Director, Richard McDonald, earlier this month. Richard was Aiglon College Headmaster from 1994 to 2000 and from 2009 to 2019, also serving as Executive Director until January 2022.

Richard will be remembered as an iconic leader whose commitment to the school’s holistic ethos and its Guiding Principles captured the spirit of John Corlette’s original vision while equipping Aiglon for its transition into the 21st century. Under Richard’s leadership the school achieved its first accreditations, further developed its international reputation and expanded both its campus, student enrolment and scholarship programme.

Beyond the school’s institutional successes during his tenures, Richard will also be remembered for his own deep commitment to academic pursuits, love of learning and passion for creativity. He lived his belief in Aiglon’s Guiding Principles. From engaging discussions with students and staff alike to his involvement in local jazz performances, Richard always sought to expand his horizons, willing to linger over conversation, engage with big philosophical ideas or pursue new creative challenges.

Richard recently participated in the school’s 75th Anniversary celebrations and was recognised during the opening of the Moghadam Campus Hub for his contributions to Aiglon’s growth. He was awarded Aiglon’s highest alumni honour, the Key Award, in 2020.

Both the global Aiglon community and the neighbouring community mourn his loss. The school will work in conjunction with his family to determine appropriate ways to remember Richard. We look forward to publishing a full tribute in the upcoming issue (25) of the Aiglon Magazine.

In the meantime, Aiglon alumnus Samar Sarila (Belvedere, 1997) met with Richard in September in India, where they sat down for a one-on-one interview for The Lighthouse. We welcome you to listen to this interview.