A Bequest from David Pappin, Long-time Curtis Leader and True-Blue Cougar

David Pappin, former Head of Athletics

“Coach Pappin,” as David was known from his long tenure as director of athletics (1980-2006), figures large in the story of Curtis School. In addition to his role as director of athletics, David was head of the Upper School for eight years. In all, David served Curtis with heart and soul for nearly 30 years. He was deeply committed to Curtis’s core mission “to develop, in every child, a sound mind in a sound body governed by a compassionate heart.” Even after his retirement, David remained close to Curtis and passionate about the school’s role in nurturing young people of character. Generations of students continued to know him as an inspirational guest speaker at Sports Night (formerly Dads Day), and his legacy lives on in the athletics award named in his honor, the David Pappin Competitive Spirit Award, which is presented during this traditional celebration of Curtis athletics. Through the years, David touched many lives among colleagues, staff, and Curtis students and families. All who knew David knew how much he loved Curtis, and he ensured that the school would continue to benefit from this affection, even after his passing, in 2017, by naming Curtis as the beneficiary of a generous bequest for which the school is deeply touched and grateful.