Celebrating the Legacy of NSCF Board Chair, John McClellan: A Journey of Dedication and Service

As we bid farewell to our esteemed National Sports Center Foundation (NSCF) Board Chair, John McClellan, we reflect on a remarkable career that has spanned decades and impacted countless lives. John’s path to the NSC is a testament to his unwavering commitment to education, sports, and community service.

From the Woods to the Hall of Fame

John’s journey began in an unconventional way—cutting trees for his dad, a role that undoubtedly instilled in him a strong work ethic. He pursued higher education at Bemidji State University, where his prowess on the football field earned him a place in the university’s Hall of Fame. With a Bachelor of Science degree in hand, John embarked on a career in education, teaching elementary school in Burnsville.

His thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there. John went on to earn a Master’s degree and a specialist degree in administration, which paved the way for his ascent to leadership roles in education. From elementary school principal to assistant superintendent and eventually superintendent at Centennial, John’s career in education was marked by dedication and excellence. His contributions to Centennial High School also earned him a spot in their Hall of Fame.

While John was Superintendent at Centennial Schools he was voted the Minnesota Superintendent of the Year.  He also provided service to the profession serving as President of the Minnesota School Administrators Association  and nationally as the secretary of the Legislative Committee of the American Association of School Administrators.

After a distinguished career in education, John transitioned into the financial sector, becoming an investment advisor in New York with a specialization in school finance and investments. He was instrumental in establishing the School District Liquid Asset Fund in Minnesota, a testament to his expertise and commitment to supporting educational institutions.

John’s journey with the NSCF began with an invitation from Paul Erickson, an offer he initially had to decline due to his busy schedule. Eventually, he joined the board, bringing his wealth of experience and passion for youth development to the organization. His involvement didn’t stop there—John also served on the Anoka Ramsey Community College Board, enriching the institution with his insights and leadership.

From 2011 to 2017, John also took on the role of Herb Brooks Executive Director, a position he humorously recalls feeling “ambushed” into accepting. Under his leadership, the foundation thrived, providing hockey gear and skating lessons to over 1,200 children across Minneapolis and St. Paul. One of John’s fondest memories is the success of these programs, which were not only fun but also deeply impactful. He particularly cherished the relationships he built with the Brooks family and the broader hockey community.

Steering Through Challenging Times

John’s tenure as Chair of the NSCF Board, which began in 2021, was marked by the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a $17 million budget and no state financial support, John guided the organization through tough decisions and operational shifts. Despite these hurdles, he remained steadfast, ensuring the NSCF continued to serve the community and maintain its facilities.

A Legacy of Lifelong Learning and Community Building

Even while serving as superintendent, John found time to teach finance and budgeting classes for school administrators across Minnesota, as well as ethics at St. Mary’s University. These roles reflect his dedication to mentoring the next generation of educators and leaders.

As John transitions into retirement, he looks forward to spending time in his woodshop, crafting beautiful pieces like desks, headboards, and cutting boards. His love for the outdoors endures, with plans for fishing trips to Canada, golfing, and waterskiing. Family remains at the heart of his plans, including celebrating his 60th wedding anniversary with his beloved wife, whom he met during his college days at Bemidji.

Words of Wisdom and Farewell

John leaves us with a piece of wisdom he often shares with his grandsons: “Many times the fastest way to do something is slowly.” This life lesson reminds us all to take our time and cherish each moment. As he embarks on this new chapter, we celebrate his incredible legacy and thank him for his profound impact on our community.

Congratulations, John, on your retirement. Your dedication, humor, and wisdom will be missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire us all.