Biography

McFadden Alexander Newell was an Irish immigrant who graduated from Trinity College in Dublin and taught school in England before settling in Baltimore. In 1865, Newell was asked to establish a state normal school (now Towson University) and served as its principal from 1866-1890. During this time, he also served as State Superintendent of Public Instruction. As Principal at MSNS, he improved both teacher education and public school instruction, set admissions standards for the Normal School and refined the school's curriculum. Described as very congenial with a keen sense of humor, M. A. Newell left a strong legacy to the public education system of Maryland and to Towson University.

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