WW II Code Breaker, Dance Administrator Celebrates 100th Birthday

The Marblehead School of Ballet announces Anita Novins of Salem, Massachusetts celebrated her 100th birthday on December 5. Novins worked for nearly 20 years at the Marblehead School of Ballet (MSB) as the dance studio's office manager and retired at age 97.

"The MSB family congratulates and wishes her a very happy 100th birthday! I am so lucky to have her in my life, first as my aunt and then, as a friend and colleague. I have always admired her positivity and zest for life. I have been extremely privileged and honored to work with her. I am so glad that I was able to share with her my love of the dance world," said Paula K. Shiff, Director of the Marblehead School of Ballet, and Anita Novins' niece.

From World War II Code Breaker to Corporate America

Her lengthy career ranged from serving as a secret code breaker for the United States government, during World War II, to working in corporations. For over 30 years, she worked in Boston as executive secretary to developer and philanthropist Norman B. Leventhal, co-founder of the Beacon Companies. Afterward, she worked for executive Ian Moss at Brush Fibers for 15 years.

Retirement from the corporate world did not stop her. In 2000, Novins became the MSB's office manager and came to know everyone, who came through the school's doors, on a first name basis -- the students, parents, faculty, guest artists, and community members. They knew her as "Auntie Anita". Many of the children and adults at MSB enjoyed spending time with her in the office, and they never left without giving her a hug.

For Novins, interacting with the students and working with her niece were memorable experiences at the MSB. "I loved working with my niece, Paula, and being surrounded by the people and the energy of the studio," she said.