Mr. Don Golladay (56)

If Mr. Don Golladay could describe his extensive time at St. Christopher’s in one word, it would be “teaching.” While this may sound trivial, it refers not only to traditional classroom teaching. He uses it to describe coaching players on the football and lacrosse fields, as well as helping them develop their character. The mathematics teacher has served as a mentor for students, players and faculty colleagues, whom he “teaches” each day by modelling his own exemplary character.
 
Mr. Golladay, who’s the longest-tenured St. Christopher’s faculty member in school history (56 years), is retiring from his position as a math teacher and coach in the Middle School.
 
His over-half-a-century-long career has been highlighted by many special moments as the primary Algebra II teacher and head lacrosse coach. Many of his former students and players see him as a genuine, kind person who cares for them. Even if he wasn’t your teacher, you still probably recognize him as a storied legend in the STC community. Or, it could be from his signature red visor worn during athletics and iconic mantra, “Know what you know,” which all students in his classes are sure to remember. In regards to what he has loved about St. Christopher’s, Mr. Golladay has found the most joy in those “a-ha” moments with his students in the classroom and in his interactions with fellow teachers.
 
As a result of retiring at the end of the school year, his schedule will be completely open for the first time since the late 60s. While many expect Mr. Golladay to sit back or take exotic vacations, he has no such plans. Instead, he intends to spend time chasing a different dream: music. Mr. Golladay anticipates being able to fully focus on this interest, which he has previously pursued in the form of his band “Company’s Coming” and performances in Middle School chapel. He hopes to master a variety of instruments, such as the guitar, fiddle and bass.
 
While Mr. Golladay will be absent from the classroom, he will always be a part of school community. He plans to volunteer at St. Christopher’s events whenever he can, and says that STC will “always be [his] tribe.” Also, he’ll still always be willing to help a student with their math homework if needed. Above all though, Mr. Golladay plans to hold family close by continuing to spend as much quality time with his children and grandchildren as possible.