Mission and History | About Montgomery Bell Academy

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Mission and History

 

A Legacy That Shapes the Future

Since 1867, Montgomery Bell Academy has stood as a symbol of tradition, scholarship, and character development in the heart of Nashville. Founded as a preparatory academy for young men, MBA remains committed to educating students not only to succeed in college, but to lead lives defined by purpose, integrity, and service.

That legacy is not just preserved—it’s lived every day. Rooted in a history shaped by generations of alumni, faculty, and families, MBA continues to champion timeless values like intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and strong community. The school’s ideal—Gentleman, Scholar, Athlete—is more than a guiding phrase. It reflects the whole-boy, whole-life philosophy that distinguishes the MBA experience.

 
Our Mission

Montgomery Bell Academy offers young men an exemplary college preparatory experience in an inclusive community, assisting them to be "gentlemen, scholars, and athletes" and young men of wisdom and moral integrity who will make significant contributions to society.

Founded in Tradition: 1867–1945

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1867
Montgomery Bell Academy is founded

Endowed by industrialist Montgomery Bell as a college preparatory school for boys in Nashville.

1881
First Campus Building Opens

Located at Lindsley and Asylum Streets with cornerstone artifacts including Bell’s will.

1900
Football Begins

MBA's football program starts with a city championship.

1910
Isaac Ball Named First Headmaster

Establishes the role that would guide MBA’s academic and cultural development.

1915
Adoption of the Ideal

“Gentleman, Scholar, Athlete” becomes a defining statement of purpose.

1927
New Campus Building Opens

Built after a fire, it housed the Honor Room, library, and more.

1945
The Bell Ringer is Published

The student newspaper begins its ongoing legacy.

 

Shaping Identity:
1946-1985

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1946
Spaghetti Supper Tradition Begins

A homecoming favorite hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary.


1953
Coach Tommy Owen Joins MBA

His leadership defined football for generations.

1954
Totomoi Honor Society Established

Recognizes outstanding students in academics, leadership, and service.

1963
Service Club is Formed

A lasting program focused on community engagement.

1977
The Waffle Becomes Iconic

A symbol of school pride, originating from a 1924 class ring design.

1982
Junior School and Debate Program Expand

The Massey Junior School opens; the Southern Bell Forum brings national recognition in speech and debate.


1984
Mock Trial Team Established

Becomes a competitive and celebrated program.

 

Expanding Horizons:
1986–2016

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1997
Performing Arts Flourishes

High-caliber theater productions expand across age levels and schools.

1998
Global Exchange Program Launches

International partnerships begin with Eton College, later expanding to four continents.

1999
Ingram Science Building Opens

A state-of-the-art facility with Pfeffer Auditorium.


2012
Wilson Grant Initiative Introduced

Empowers global study, leadership, and civic engagement.

 

Innovation and Impact:
2017–Present

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2017
MBA Celebrates 150 Years

A milestone of reflection and celebration.

2021
New Athletic/Wellness Facilities Open

The Frank Burkholder Wellness Center fosters the physical, mental, and character development of every MBA boy.


2025
Looking Forward

MBA remains committed to classical excellence and 21st-century leadership.