September 9, 2025

Launched in 2023 to celebrate MPA’s rich athletic tradition, MPA is proud to announce the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees: David McGaha, longtime coach and mentor; Lauren LaRoche ’99, alum athlete; and Olivia (Lansing) Herrick ’06, alum athlete. Please take a moment to read about Lauren LaRoche ’99!

What was your greatest accomplishment during your time as an athlete at MPA?
My most significant athletic achievements throughout my years at MPA in cross country and track and field include winning the 400-meter dash at the state track & field meet in 1996 as a wide-eyed, eager freshman.

When you look back on your time at MPA, what is one thing you would change or do differently?
Not a single thing. While I excelled in athletics, MPA provided me with many opportunities to be a well-rounded student, pushing me outside my comfort zone and instilling the confidence and belief that I could achieve anything.

In what ways did the school support you during your time at MPA?
MPA focuses on each student and unconditionally supports them during their formative years. The school fosters a culture of safety and opportunity, promoting individualism while demonstrating the importance of collaboration. During my time at MPA, I always felt the teachers and staff only wanted the best for me, encouraging me to voice my opinions and push boundaries. When a student graduates from MPA, it’s these attributes they carry with them that are woven throughout the rest of their lives. Read More

September 9, 2025

Launched in 2023 to celebrate MPA’s rich athletic tradition, MPA is proud to announce the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees: David McGaha, longtime coach and mentor; Lauren LaRoche ’99, alum athlete; and Olivia (Lansing) Herrick ’06, alum athlete. Please take a moment to read about David McGaha!

How did your time at MPA shape your future?
I was fortunate to apply and land in what was then a new private school in 1983, the second year of MPA’s existence. I knew from seventh grade what I wanted to do when I grew up. Bob and Lois Kreischer had a vision of what a school should be. Now retired, I have so many fond memories of the faculty and of the many students that I was able to work with. Again, I was fortunate to be a part of such a wonderful school.

What is one piece of advice that you would share with MPA athletes?
As a young athlete, you have one opportunity to be the best that you can be. Once you graduate from high school—knowing that you committed yourself to getting the most out of your abilities in your chosen sport or sports—you will move on with an inner satisfaction you never lacked in effort. You control your effort and commitment.

In what ways did the school support you during your time at MPA?
One of the reasons that MPA is such a successful school stems from the freedom that teachers and coaches have to teach and guide students in what they believe to be the right direction. I always felt supported by the administration. Coming to school each year, each day, I visualized what I wanted my classes and teams to accomplish. I always felt that the administration appreciated my efforts. It was challenging and not always easy, but it resulted in a very rewarding career. Read More