Friday, December 18, 2009
Bookkeeper Lily Abel retires
In addition to her duties as bookkeeper, Lily has been instrumental in the success of many Friends of Briar Bush special events, whether it is planning the menu, arranging the catering or organizing supplies. Her lively spirit is a presence that will be missed around the Center, but we know she will enjoy her abundance of free time as she jets off to sunny Florida!
Thank you, Lily, for your dedication and cheer and we wish you health and happiness on your new adventures.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Meet the Board of Directors: Katy Abbott
Katy Abbott
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Meet the Board of Directors: Janice Park
Janice Park, a social entrepreneur
Janice Park is the founder of Urban Park Consulting. As an independent consultant, Janice provides consulting services to businesses, the community and educators, using entrepreneurial principles to organize, create, and manage ventures to make positive social change.
Janice continued her passion for education advocacy and learned to successfully integrate effective business practices to support education. In 2002, Janice became an education lobbyist for the state of
One of Janice’s most memorable and meaningful developments with the College Board, was securing a partnership with the NYC Department of Education. The partnership assisted NYC Department of Education secure a $2.4mm federal grant to increase the number of students having access to a rigorous curriculum. This grant initiative opened the door to provide college preparation programs for more students in NYC, giving access to more programs and opportunities for more students, especially those from low-income families. By 2007, this program reached out to every 10th and 11th grade student in the NYC public school system, and still expanding.
Meet the Board of Directors: Diana K. Weiner
DIANA K. WEINER is a horticulture consultant and lectures to groups around the country. She recently joined the staff of the Friends of High School Park as the Restoration and Volunteer Manger for this 11-acre native plant sanctuary in
Friends celebrate Doris Dale Volunteer of the Year
The 2009 Doris Dale Volunteer of the Year award was presented at the annual Volunteer and Donor Recognition Party on Dec. 8. Recipients were Jay Viola, an adult volunteer who works with Montgomery County youth, and Ani Schug, a youth volunteer who has spent the past two summers doing grounds work and assisting with summer camps as a Camp Aide.
The Briar Bush staff was very excited to choose these two well-deserving volunteers who have put in countless hours.
For the first time, the 2009 Doris Dale Volunteer of the Year award was given to two recipients: an adult and a youth volunteer. Executive Director Dede Long (left) presents the newly renamed award to Jay Viola (center) and Ani Schug (right).