Honoring Michael J. Carr ’76: A Lasting Choate Legacy

On Tuesday, May 12, 2026, Choate Rosemary Hall learned of the passing of Michael J. Carr ’76, former Chair of the Board of Trustees, devoted alumnus, and one of the most influential figures in the school’s modern history.

“Michael’s leadership, generosity, and devotion to Choate left a lasting mark on the school and on so many within our community,” said Head of School Alex Curtis. “During his time as Chair, he led with wisdom, thoughtfulness, and deep care for the institution and its people. Choate is stronger because of his service and stewardship.”

A member of the Class of 1976, Michael arrived at Choate in 1974 and quickly immersed himself in campus life. He served as a circulation manager for The Choate News and played varsity lacrosse, earning the Coach’s Trophy Award in his senior year. After graduating from Choate, he attended Wesleyan University and later earned his MBA from The Wharton School.

Michael went on to a distinguished career in finance, first at Salomon Smith Barney and later at Goldman Sachs, where he became one of the firm’s most respected leaders. Over nearly 25 years at Goldman Sachs, he held a number of senior leadership positions, including Global Co-Head of Mergers & Acquisitions. Colleagues remembered him not only for his strategic insight and sound judgment, but also for his kindness, generosity, and deep commitment to the people around him.

Even amid a demanding professional life, Michael remained deeply committed to Choate. He served on the Board of Trustees for fourteen years, including eight years as Chair from 2011 to 2019, helping guide the school through a transformative period in its history.

“The Choate we know today was shaped in profound ways by Michael’s leadership,” Curtis said. “He believed deeply that the school needed to evolve while remaining grounded in its values.”

During his tenure as Board Chair, Michael helped lead the development of the school’s first strategic plan in two decades, setting a direction that continues to shape Choate today. He championed innovation in teaching and learning, supported the early adoption of educational technology, and encouraged the school to prepare students thoughtfully for a rapidly changing world.

He also played a pivotal role in envisioning and advancing major campus projects, including the creation of the Lanphier Center for Mathematics and Computer Science. More recently, in fall 2025, the school dedicated Carr Hall, named in honor of Michael and his wife, Shelley, in recognition of their extraordinary generosity and enduring commitment to Choate.

But those who worked closely with Michael often speak first not about his accomplishments, but about his character.

“I can say without hesitation that he was one of the wisest, most thoughtful, and most decent people I have ever known,” Curtis reflected. “He was a friend, a mentor, and someone who completely embodied the values we talk about at Choate.”

Above all, Michael will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, friend, mentor, and leader whose warmth, wisdom, and generosity profoundly shaped the lives of those around him. He is survived by his wife, Shelley; his daughters, Alexandra and Elisabeth; and his sons-in-law, Nick Ribovich and Alec Dunn.

Today, Carr Hall stands at the front of campus as a place of welcome and connection for students, families, alumni, and visitors alike — a fitting reflection of the values Michael championed throughout his life and leadership.