Conrad F. Harrington ’30: A Legacy of Community and Contribution
“It was important to him. TCS mattered a lot,” said Conrad Harrington ’02 on his grandfather’s legacy at the School.
Attending Trinity College School played a pivotal role in Conrad Harrington’s life. Here, he made lifelong friends, excelled in sports and academics, and paved the way for his brother, son, and later his grandson, who all attended the School. The values of community and contribution would prove to be of importance throughout Conrad’s life.
Born in 1912 in Montreal, Conrad attended Selwyn House before coming to TCS in 1926. Conrad kept himself busy during his time at the School on the Hill. He was part of several of the School’s athletics teams including badminton, boxing, cricket, football, hockey (team captain), tennis and track. He was also part of The Record team, where he handled the positions of assistant and sports editor. In terms of academics, Conrad won prizes in English and mathematics, as well as the Ince Memorial Essay Prize.
After graduating from Trinity College School, Conrad attended McGill University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts and, a few years later, his law degree. He was able to practice law in Montreal as well as get married to his wife, Joan, before leaving to join the war effort in 1940. He served in the Royal Canadian Artillery where he attained the rank of Major.
During the war, Conrad kept in touch with Headmaster Philip Ketchum through letters. They discussed the current events at the School, ongoing sports, and reunions Conrad had with fellow TCS alumni during his military service. Their letters showed concern, care and gratitude to each other for the chance to maintain their TCS connection during those difficult years.
Once Conrad returned to Canada after World War II, he changed his career path from law to business. He worked for the Royal Trust Company and was promoted to the titles of chairman and chief executive officer in 1970.
Giving back to the schools and communities he was a part of truly mattered to Conrad. His grandson, Conrad ’02, says that he was “active in his community and was a big contributor.” He devoted his time at McGill as a chancellor, and at TCS served as a member of the School’s governing body. Conrad also contributed to many causes and community organizations during his lifetime. For his service to the country, Conrad was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada in 1986.
Leaving a legacy gift is a way to have a significant and lasting impact on a community such as TCS, making a difference for future generations. Conrad’s estate gift to the Junior School library is one that will be appreciated by the teachers and students for years to come.
Junior School teacher-librarian Sarah Torrible shared that this gift is being used to update the nonfiction section of the library, including both print and digital (audio and ebooks) collections. This gift will aid in continuing to encourage and educate young minds. Books have been purchased in connection to Indigenous studies, Black history, and Grade 7 curriculum content such as map-making. Ms. Torrible explained that “the kids’ interests are always a motivator for collection development, and they will appreciate the books on the shelves that they have requested to be there.”
Through his service to the School and his generous estate gift, Conrad F. Harrington’s legacy of community and contribution will continue to live on at Trinity College School.
– Natasha Pinto ’21
