Dear Sewickley Academy Community,

 

It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the news of the death of our beloved friend and colleague, Ellen Bishop Martin. She peacefully departed in her sleep on January 11, 2024. She was a cherished member of our community, and her impact will be profoundly missed.

 

Born and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, Mrs. Martin graduated from Smith College with a major in music. She shared her passion for classical music, ballet, and opera with her family and everyone at Sewickley Academy, most particularly the students. For decades she worked closely with Mario Melodia in the dance program, teaching tap, jazz, and ballet to all ages. In addition, she assisted Mr. Melodia in founding Sewickley Academy Musical Theater Arts Camp (now known as Performing Arts Camp), the premier summer program for song and dance students from far and wide for over 35 years. At the same time, she worked as a receptionist in the main office and continued her dedicated service as a receptionist in the Nichols-Snyder School Center long after she retired from dance, up until her passing last week. Cheerfully, she greeted guests and all who passed through on a daily basis.

 

Mrs. Martin's affiliation with the Academy spans more than 50 years, starting when she and her husband, David, moved to Sewickley with their young children, Elizabeth '79 and James '83.  She bears distinction in her multiple roles as parent, faculty, staff, and benefactor.  

 

Upon the early death of their daughter in 1999, Mr. and Mrs. Martin established the Elizabeth Bishop Martin Faculty Award to recognize a teacher who has made a significant contribution to advancing the mission of the school.  Much like Mrs. Martin, the annual recipient displays diligence in their practice, collaborates with their colleagues, and serves the students well.  And while the Martins bestowed this enduring legacy upon the school, the student body bestowed an enduring legacy upon Mrs. Martin by dedicating the 2007 yearbook in her honor.  

 

All at Sewickley Academy are keeping the Martin family in our thoughts.  Her obituary can be viewed here, including details for the viewing and funeral this week.