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Post Katrina, the realization of
what really comprises a healthy and growing community became
abundantly clear. As the necessity for setting priorities and smart
allocation of limited resources became critical, educational,
(elementary, secondary and post-secondary) institutions, were among
the top on the list. Their significant impact clearly defined
them as 'Building Blocks of a Community'.
While still in recovery mode, we, as a small coalition of local
businesses, felt it was important to provide a forum through which
our local universities could tell their story.
Thus, in November of 2006, we brought
together for the first time, college Presidents and representatives
from all of our local universities and hosted forum entitled,
Higher Education As A Catalyst In Recovery - at which for three
full hours, everyone in attendance got the opportunity to hear
first-hand what tragedy and triumphs were born out of Hurricane
Katrina. More importantly, we learned the true financial and
social impacts each of these universities provide to our community.
At the close of this event, It was an honor for us to present to
each of the universities the first
"Building Blocks of a Community Award".
Now, as we turn our attention to education at the
elementary and secondary levels, it is obvious to all that our teachers are truly
heroes in our community. Their extended roles go far beyond the
reading, writing and arithmetic of yesterday. They are
challenged today with building character and instilling values in a
society that offers many distractions and deterrents. Their
dedication and tireless effort comes with little or no public
accolades. So it is time to say Thank You,
publically.
For the Year of
the Teacher Campaign, we are honored to be joined by
Xavier University and have created a dynamic Project Committee
to help facilitate the events scheduled for the academic school year
2008/2009. This campaign presents a wonderful opportunity for all of
us across the Greater New Orleans Region to unite and acknowledge
our school systems' teachers. Each of you, in your own way, as
organizations, businesses and individuals can find some way to reach
out to a teacher and say "Thanks".
And please let us know when and how you do it so we can share your goodwill
with the community. One great way to reach out is to become
one of the sponsors of the
upcoming Teacher Appreciation Reception. Please contact us
if you would like to consider this option. We also welcome and
encourage your ideas and suggestions that may enhance this
initiative. |
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