DEF President 2007 - 2008, Marty Desmery For almost two decades, the Duxbury Education Foundation has been raising money to fund innovative educational programs designed to enrich the academic experience of students in our public schools. Over the years, many words have been written about the projects funded by the DEF, as well as the generous donors who made those grants possible. In a slight break from tradition, I would like to turn the spotlight around and recognize the people who faithfully fulfill the DEF's mission year after year after year: the members of our Board of Trustees.
The DEF Board consists of 16 - 18 Duxbury residents, who volunteer to serve three-year terms. Each year, roughly one-third of the Board is replaced with new members. The entire group meets every month to discuss fundraising events and review grant applications. The activity "behind the scenes," however, is a non-stop whirlwind of planning, organization and execution. From baking cookies and stuffing envelopes, to creating detailed spreadsheets and soliciting corporate donations, each Board member contributes a significant amount of time to the DEF's mission of providing our public schools with much-needed financial support.
I served with almost 30 people during my three years with the DEF. Many of my fellow Board members had strong personalities, along with deeply-held opinions about the needs of the public schools. Nevertheless, our lively debates over the details of fundraising and grants were never rancorous, and each person respected the view of his or her peers. We did not always agree on the issues, but once the Board reached its decision our disparate positions dissolved into a group consensus. Perhaps it was our charitable purpose, or the natural camaraderie of fellow parents in a small town, but it was truly a pleasure to work with so many considerate, talented and hard-working individuals.
As the DEF approaches its 20th Anniversary, well over a hundred residents of Duxbury have served on the Board, and each of them has made a substantial contribution to the cause. My guess is that the past and present Board members would prefer a donation to the DEF over these words of recognition. Still, it never hurts to say, "Thank you!" And my check for the 2008 Annual Appeal has already been delivered. Please join me!
