Alumni

Admiral Farragut Academy: A Pathway to Success

Introduction to Admiral Farragut Academy

Admiral Farragut Academy, established in 1933, stands as a beacon of academic excellence in St. Petersburg, Florida. A private, coeducational, college preparatory school, its legacy resonates through the accomplishments of its distinguished alumni. Since its inception, the academy has nurtured individuals who have left an indelible mark on diverse fields, ranging from space exploration to entertainment, from military service to sports.

Notable Alumni: Pioneers in Various Domains

Space Exploration

Rear Admiral Alan Shepard, USN (Ret.), a graduate of the New Jersey campus, holds the distinction of being the first American in space and a lunar walker. Likewise, Brigadier General Charles Duke, USAF (Ret.), who walked on the Moon during the Apollo 16 mission, stands as a testament to the academy’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of human exploration.

Military and Government

Lieutenant General Sidney “Tom” Weinstein, a graduate of the New Jersey campus, played a pivotal role in modernizing the Army’s intelligence corps. Similarly, William N. Small, a United States Navy Admiral, and Richard W. Fisher, former President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, exemplify the academy’s tradition of producing leaders in military and government sectors.

Entertainment

Lorenzo Lamas, known for his roles in “Grease” and “Falcon Crest,” and Casper Van Dien, famed for his performance in “Starship Troopers,” highlight the academy’s contribution to the entertainment industry. Additionally, Stephen Stills, a renowned musician, and Spike Mendelsohn, a celebrated chef, showcase the diverse talents nurtured at Admiral Farragut Academy.

Sports

Marreese Speights, a professional basketball player, and Tom Thompson, the oldest kicker in NCAA football history, underscore the academy’s role in shaping athletes who excel on the global stage.

Other Fields

Major Megan McClung, the first female United States Marine Corps officer killed in combat during the Iraq War, symbolizes the academy’s commitment to gender equality and service. Furthermore, Andy Luckey and Joseph Zolfo, accomplished figures in the realms of animation and film production, embody the creative spirit fostered at Admiral Farragut Academy.

Alumni Engagement and Contributions: A Testament to Community

Admiral Farragut Academy prioritizes alumni engagement through a range of initiatives:

Annual Events

The academy hosts three major alumni events annually: Homecoming, Army Navy, and Man the Rail, providing platforms for alumni to reconnect and celebrate shared experiences.

Class Notes and News

Alumni are encouraged to share updates about their achievements, which are disseminated through newsletters, magazines, and social media platforms, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie among the alumni community.

Class Agents

Volunteer Class Agents play a vital role in maintaining connections between alumni, ensuring that the bonds forged at Admiral Farragut Academy endure beyond graduation.

Alumni Contributions

The academy’s Foundation, bolstered by generous donations from alumni, currently stands at $4.1 million, facilitating scholarships, infrastructure development, and other initiatives that enrich the educational experience for current and future students.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence

Admiral Farragut Academy’s alumni network stands as a testament to its commitment to fostering leadership and excellence across diverse fields. As students of this esteemed institution, we are inspired by the achievements of our predecessors and motivated to uphold the legacy of Admiral Farragut Academy in our own pursuits. Through its unwavering dedication to academic rigor, character development, and community engagement, Admiral Farragut Academy continues to shape future leaders who will make meaningful contributions to society.