(Allegany Hope Community News Photo)
Houghton Academy, a private international boarding school, celebrated its 140th anniversary today during ceremonies at the school, which also provided additional highlights, including installation of a new headmaster.
Toby A. Travis, Ed.D., a native of Montrose, Pa., heads the school, assuming the role from Philip Stockin of Houghton who had been serving in that capacity on an interim basis, after retiring following many prior years in that position. Stockin, headmaster emeritus and an Allegany County legislator, was honored for having stepped back into the position on the interim basis.
Travis is active in the Christian school movement, having developed and taught worldview, leadership development, and school improvement seminars for numerous Christian education organizations worldwide. He also is described as a prolific writer, public speaker, sought-after school consultant, and executive coach.
Houghton University President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., provided the keynote address, focused on “God using ordinary people to do extraordinary things.”
The University has its roots in Houghton Academy when it was started in1883 as a seminary by Willard J. Houghton, an area farmer who had a vision of providing Christian educational opportunities.
Several legislative citations also were issued for today’s ceremony by Congressman Nick Langworthy, State Senators George Borrello and Thomas O’Mara, and Assemblyman Joseph Giglio.
A recording of today’s activities is available at https://bit.ly/461aP9W.