He joined our pack back in 1999. Fast forward 27 years, and now he's running with the best. Nick Kang '03 received his undergraduate degree from Loyola Marymount University and his law degree from Whittier Law School. He is currently a Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles County assigned to the Gang Homicide Division. In November, he joined our 8th-grade U.S. History classes for the day, reviewing the Bill of Rights and providing real-world examples that referenced specific penal codes and sections.

When asked what inspired him to return, Nick reflected on the educators who shaped his approach to life. "Mr. Mullins was one of the smartest history teachers I've ever met. However, he was also a truly unique character. I remember he had long surfer hair and would rip an electric guitar out during class and start playing. All the while, he's teaching us these incredible things about European and U.S. history. It showed me the true duality of a person."

Mike Mullins wasn't the only teacher who broke stereotypes. Tom Fry, generally known as a legendary coach, showed that same spirit in unexpected ways. "This might be surprising, but Mr. Fry was the advisor to our Hip Hop Club.”

Looking back, Nick recognizes how these experiences shaped his understanding of what it means to be authentic. "I didn't fully know it at the time, but these teachers taught me you don't have to fit in a box to be excellent. One of the greatest things that Flintridge Prep does is cultivate the person. There is a vibrancy in each of the students."

Teachers like Tom Fry and Mike Mullins pushed the boundaries of the traditional educator and helped students fuel their passions. They were each unapologetically themselves, and they encouraged students to be original.

Calling all alumni: Are you interested in serving as a class speaker? Reach out to Ahny McPherson at amcpherson@flintridgeprep.org for more information.