Just like the North Star, Anne Foley is trusted, steady and constant. A number of constellations circle around her: students, faculty and library colleagues, and family members.
We have all been the benefi ciaries of the tireless and conscientious manner in which Anne performs her duties. We have seen her retrieving a wayward piece of trash to beautify the campus. We have noticed her at sporting events and performances, supporting her advisees or former students. Slouching or goofing off when Anne is around is difficult; instead, trying a little harder is easier, because of her example.
Former public school teachers Anne and Ed Foley arrived at Milton with two young sons in 1969. From faculty wife, Anne has gone on to serve in many capacities. Between 1983 and 1987, the Foley family (grown to six children) lived in Forbes House. Anne took over as house head for the School’s summer programs. In 1986, Anne returned to teaching.
An inveterate reader and bibliophile, Anne has worked in Cox Library since 1987. She became a full-time librarian in 1992. Anne has been responsible for cataloging the incoming Upper School books; creating our book lists; and running the book fair each May. Anne developed our Middle School program with its dedicated young-adult collection and class library visits. She completes each task in her careful and unflappable way. Anne will give an honest opinion in a way that exudes both competence and caring.
Anne has nurtured four groups of advisees through the Upper School and sponsored senior projects. She has consistently participated in SEED discussion groups, chauffeured for the Community Service Program, and served on committees for the independent school librarians’ organization. The amazing thing is that Anne retains knowledge of who served with her. She can explain exactly how things were done at various stages, and remember precisely when and why they were modified.
Luckily, Anne leaves some descendants among us, which surely means that she will be back on campus to see daughter Meg in admission, grandson Sam moving up to Class IV, and grandson Andrew at Milton Academy Children’s Center. Meanwhile, Anne will shine like the North Star, guiding us to become our best selves.
–Diane Pierce-Williams, Cox Librarian and Archivist