Honorary Degree
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Ronald A. North receives honorary diploma in honor of his life and career achievements.
On June 3, 2022, at the annual alumni dinner, Ronald A. North received an honorary diploma from Miller in honor of his life and career achievements. Along with many of Mr. North’s friends and family, on hand to present his diploma were Head of School Mike Drude and Chair of the Board of Trustees Joel Mangham.
After losing his father, Ronald North joined his brother Jim at Miller School in 1956. Mr. North was a good student and popular among his friends. He quickly became what was then known as a “Miller boy” (a hard-working student with a lot of grit), but unfortunately, for reasons beyond his control, he did not graduate from Miller. He did, however, go on to an amazingly successful life and business career, first at the Michie Company and later as a salesman in the wine industry.
Over the years, Mr. North never forgot his Miller home. When asked his secret to his success, Mr. North remarked: “Miller School played a major role in molding me into a successful business person as well as a sensitive and caring family man.”
During his time at Miller, Mr. North received financial aid. Still, his mother had to work hard at a Belmont dry cleaner to afford the tuition. Due to this experience, Mr. North is particularly interested in helping current students afford a Miller education. He has worked alongside his brother as a Life Member of Miller School’s Alumni Association, ensuring the Association works hard to improve Miller School of Albemarle and provide scholarships for deserving students. In addition, he recently has found the Sustainable Agriculture Program particularly interesting and helped that program get off the ground.
While Mr. North may not have graduated from Miller many years ago, he never really left, dedicating himself to helping the school that meant so much to him and provided him with a home when he needed one.
In response to receiving his diploma, Mr. North remarked: “ I am never at a loss for words. The shock of receiving such an honor rendered me speechless for days!"
