Margaret Mahon Inducted into Distinguished Faculty Hall of Fame

Mrs. Margaret Mahon of Tinton Falls, New Jersey, was honored on October 18, 2014 by Ranney School (Tinton Falls, NJ) for her years of service and dedication as a distinguished faculty member. She was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame along with four other distinguished faculty members, four athletes and three distinguished alumni.

The Distinguished Faculty Hall of Fame was created to recognize members of the Ranney staff in honoring the school’s strong tradition of teaching excellence, dating back to 1960. The Distinguished Faculty Award is presented to outstanding faculty and staff members who are most representative of the best qualities of Ranney teaching.

Mrs. Margaret Mahon was an integral part of the Ranney School community from 1966-1993. She became a very valuable part of the school, led by founder and first Headmaster Mr. Russell G. Ranney, by serving in college guidance, as a primary school teacher and supervisor, and later as principal of the Lower School and assistant Headmaster. Mrs. Mahon became Ranney’s second Head of School after Mr. Ranney’s passing in 1987 and led the school until her retirement in 1993.

With big shoes to fill, Mrs. Mahon immediately set out to continue her mentor’s work; a legacy of love and steadfast dedication to the school and its students. Recognizing the importance of her headship and the timing of her leadership imperative, Mrs. Mahon expertly advanced the school’s reputation within local, regional and state professional communities during her six-year term. In this essential time of growth, Ranney School became a member of the National Association of Independent Schools.

During her tenure, Ranney School achieved a number of “firsts,” including the establishment of the Ranney School Parents’ Association (RSPA) which continues to thrive today. Many of the traditions Ranney students and faculty cherish to this day began under Mrs. Mahon’s leadership, including International Day and Spirit Day. The number and variety of extracurricular activities also grew and the school renewed its commitment to academic excellence by enhancing many of its academic, athletic and arts programs during her time as Head of School.

As a leader, Mrs. Mahon placed students and faculty alike at the center of her mission to continue Mr. Ranney’s legacy and to safeguard the school’s expanding reputation for academics. Mrs. Mahon was instrumental in the school’s continued growth, leading its transformation into one of the state’s finest college preparatory institutions.

Long time Ranney Athletic Director and current Director of Alumni Tom Moriau said, “Margaret gave so much of herself to the students, the staff and the families during her tenure. I know she made a lasting impact not only on me, but also on the entire Ranney community. She was a positive influence on all students, regardless of their age or their passion. She is a truly remarkable woman.”