I just completed my second month as IPEI’s first Executive Director. It’s been a wonderful two months, and I am energized by the enthusiasm of all who are impacted by our work.
On my first day at IPEI, I had the privilege of attending the opening convocation for all teachers of the Ithaca City School District as they started the new school year. As I was introduced around, each teacher I met expressed warm gratitude for IPEI’s support of their ideas and dreams for their students. It was so heartwarming.
At the ribbon cutting for IPEI’s first office at the Just Be Cause Center this fall, I heard a story that truly signifies what IPEI is all about. A former Ithaca City School District student walked into our office to thank IPEI for a grant that allowed him, while in his senior year at IHS, to explore his dream for a career in music, a dream that is now becoming reality.
I was so impressed by this testimonial. IPEI strives to engage our students in learning that will lead to their future success, to make their dreams come true. And IPEI’s commitment to partnering with teachers and community organizations creates the strong roots from which these successes blossom.
IPEI makes a tremendous difference in the lives of our students, in the classrooms of our teachers, and in the strength of our community. I look forward to continuing IPEI’s work with the schools and the community to keep the dreams alive.