47 Years of Dedication: Announcing the Retirement of Mr. Barry Bradley

February 13, 2024

Dear San Antonio Academy Community,

With deepest gratitude, we announce the retirement of our beloved history teacher of 47 years, Mr. Barry Bradley, at the conclusion of the 2023-24 school year. Mr. Bradley leaves a lasting legacy on generations of Academy students and colleagues alike.

Originally from Rochester, NY, he came to Texas in 1971 to serve at Fort Hood and joined The Academy team in 1977. In addition to teaching history, over his tenure, Mr. Bradley has also taught science, served as Dean of Students as well as Dean of Faculty, and sponsored photography, science, and homework clubs. He has witnessed the growth of the school, including seeing dormitories transform into the Bondurant Library and Charlotte Hall classrooms, as well as the construction of Ellison Hall and a new gymnasium/fine arts building.

“Teaching boarding students from outside San Antonio, and especially non-English speakers from Mexico was not the burden I expected, but instead was a gift that still renders fond memories,” said Mr. Bradley.

Mr. Bradley’s genuine care for each student has been a gift cherished by all who have had the privilege of knowing him. A student favorite for decades, he is always a stop for alumni visiting campus and frequently receives shout-outs in our weekly Alumni Monday presentations.

Recognizing his decades of service and dedication to The Academy, the Alumni Association presented him with an “Honorary Alumnus” award in 2012.

Looking back on his career, his personal highlights include “continuing the Geography Bee long after National Geographic stopped sponsoring it; seeing events like the first Fall Family Fair and Field Day evolve into what they are today; having 47 years of teaching fun and interesting students, getting to know supportive parents and families, and being able to call some of the best teachers anywhere my friends.”

“It’s been a happy ride,” he added.

We celebrate Mr. Bradley’s role in shaping the fabric of our school. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he has impacted and the fond memories he leaves behind.

“Mr. Bradley’s dedicated service to our boys, our families, and The Academy is without compare,” said Paul Quick, Semmes Foundation Head of School. “The admiration that he receives from our alumni is a testament to the unquestionable influence he has had on the untold number of Academy boys throughout the years. Expressing our gratitude and appreciation for his dedication and commitment to our community is the least we can do for such a distinguished and respected colleague. It has been a pleasure serving alongside Mr. Bradley these last few years and we wish him godspeed and good fortune during this next chapter.”

As we bid farewell to a beloved teacher, mentor, and friend, let us express our deepest appreciation for Mr. Bradley’s 47 years of service to San Antonio Academy, and wish him a joyous retirement. Please mark your calendars for the evening of Wednesday, May 1, to join us in celebrating the career of Mr. Barry Bradley. More details are forthcoming.

In the meantime, we are collecting photos, messages, letters, etc. to present to Mr. Bradley upon his retirement. If you would like to submit a tribute, please email mrbradley@sa-academy.org or mail hard copies to The Academy (117 E. French Place) attention: Development.