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Academy, the school that John also attended for eight years as a student and graduated from in 1980, will celebrate him during Alumni Weekend 2026 on October 9-10. More details will be shared over the summer, including how to submit memories and messages to John that will be collected as a keepsake gift for him.
As a student at Academy, John competed on the swim and JV boys soccer teams, and he served as the varsity boys soccer manager. He also was a part of the yearbook staff and frisbee club, and he aspired to become a math teacher on campus.
After completing his bachelor’s degree at the University of Virginia, John fulfilled that goal by returning to Academy in 1984 to teach math, something he’s done exceptionally well for 27 school years. He also spent eight years as the math department chair, a decade as upper school dean of students, 16 years in a leadership team role as the director of admissions and tuition assistance, and many seasons as a dedicated swim coach along with a few coaching golf and bowling as well.
“In each of these positions, John’s care for students, quirky and dynamic intelligence and love of the school have been the hallmarks of his success,” stated Head of School Melissa Soderberg. “Please join me in thanking John for his immutable humor, generous smiles and unrelenting enthusiasm for Columbus Academy and wishing him the very best in health, strength and time to enjoy with his loved ones.”
John’s future plans evolve around all the “B”s…
- Bitzy (the nickname for his wife Liz Nusken)
- Boys (his sons Conrad ’12, Alec ’13 and Calvin ’16)
- Bands (he loves live music)
- Bicycling (he rides regularly with a group of friends)
- Birding (a longtime passion)
- Boating (primarily at his lakehouse in Michigan)
- Baseball (he’s a fan of the Cincinnati Reds)
“While I am excited about retirement, leaving Academy is truly bittersweet,” said John about his time as both a student and member of the faculty/staff at the school. “Academy educated and nurtured me and my three sons while also fulfilling me professionally, socially and emotionally. I’m incredibly fortunate to have been a part of this amazing place for 50 years.”
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