TRUSTEE, SEEDS – Access Changes Everything
In 1995, I was on the Board of Trustees for Dwight-Englewood School when its Head of School, Jim Van Amberg, brought up SEEDS and mentioned that the newly founded organization was looking for a trustee from Bergen County. Shortly thereafter, I had lunch with Jim, Dwight Wilson, and Blair MacInnes – some of SEEDS’ founders – and learned more about the organization and its mission. I joined the Board of Trustees shortly thereafter.
In 1963, I had formed a group in East Harlem made up of bright 12- and 13-year-old students to teach them how the political system worked. Through these young people, I saw the incredible potential that they, and other students like them, had and I wanted to be part of an effort to support their education. So, when SEEDS was established some 29 years later, it seemed to be a perfect sequel at that point in my career to “give back”.
To me, SEEDS scholars have been an inspiration. I so admire their determination to get an education worthy of their intelligence and hard work. They are my heroes.
As a trustee, I have been able to help the organization evolve from a start-up non-profit to an established, effective organization. It’s something I am incredibly proud of.
Now in its 30th year, it’s certain that SEEDS has been the positive change in the lives of both the many SEEDS scholars as well as the cultures of the receiving schools. SEEDS is an inspiring experience for everyone involved: students, staff, trustees, and supporters. Those who can somehow contribute to the organization should absolutely consider doing so.
Today, SEEDS continues to inspire me. My work with SEEDS was and continues to be, as important to me as any job I have ever had. May there always be a SEEDS and SEEDS scholars.