Anson Howard - Class of 2002 (Alumni Monday Speaker)

Anson Howard, Class of 2002, joined us as the Alumni Monday speaker on August 26, 2024. In a heartfelt speech at his alma mater, he shared the significance and impact of The Academy’s enduring motto: "Be honest, be kind, be the best you can be." that has guided students like himself and now his son, Fitz '34, for 138 years.  

After graduating from The Academy, he attended and graduated from Woodberry Forest in Virginia, then attended and graduated from SMU, where he attained his undergraduate degree. After graduating college, he went to the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as a United States Marine Corps second lieutenant. After that, he returned to study law at Texas Tech for three years. After passing the bar exam and becoming an attorney, he returned to the Marine Corps basic school in Quantico, Virginia, to re-learn everything to be a Marine Corps officer. He eventually served as both a defense attorney and prosecutor for the USMC. Now, he spends his days representing landowners on all property issues. 

Reflecting on his journey from The Academy to his current role as an attorney, Anson emphasized the importance of honesty, kindness, and striving for excellence. He recounted his experiences as an eighth-grader rising through the ranks in various leadership roles, such as company commander, and his experiences as a Marine Corps officer. Each step of his journey was marked by adherence to the values he learned here at The Academy.

He vividly remembered moments from his youth, such as a playground injury in kindergarten, where the kindness of classmates left a lasting impact. This simple act reinforced the idea that kindness is remembered long after the moment has passed. Honesty, another pillar of SAA's values, was highlighted through a personal story about a temptation to cheat during a test. Despite the opportunity, he resisted, recalling The Academy’s teachings and the consequences faced by peers who had succumbed to dishonesty. This experience underscored the lifelong importance of integrity, not just in school but in all aspects of life.

Anson also shared how hard work and dedication led him to positions of leadership. He described how, even when not in his desired role, he excelled in his assigned tasks, eventually leading to the promotion he sought as company commander. This journey illustrated the principle of always striving to be the best you can be, regardless of the situation.

In conclusion, he urged the boys to embrace The Academy’s motto, reminding them that life does not always provide a clear path. However, by being honest, kind, and always giving their best effort, they can navigate life’s complexities and achieve their goals. With its exceptional faculty and staff, The Academy continues to raise the bar, offering students an unparalleled opportunity to succeed by living out these timeless values.

About Alumni Mondays: Each Monday, we welcome an Academy alumnus to speak to SAA boys during chapel. During this presentation, our alumni speakers share meaningful stories and lessons from their days at SAA. View Alumni Monday Showcase