2013-14 Annual Report | Page 4

Tribute to Elizabeth Rohatyn “I believe we all have a responsibility to become active in our communities, particularly to ensure the educational advancement of children.” —Elizabeth Rohatyn In 1994, Elizabeth Rohatyn founded Teaching Matters to help level the playing field for every child being educated in our urban public schools. She was also at the forefront of helping educators use technology as a tool for teaching and learning. She believed that student success depends squarely on the quality of the teacher in the classroom. As an early champion of this emerging movement, she rallied public interest and private backing for this unsung cause. Today, Teaching Matters is among the top 10 providers of professional development to New York City public schools. Her devotion to teachers and students has served as an unshakable foundation, enabling the rapid growth 2 and success of Teaching Matters. Her exemplary work has been widely recognized, and she was awarded an honorary doctorate and President’s Medal by the Bank Street College of Education, which singled out her “commitment to educational excellence.” Elizabeth Rohatyn epitomizes the very spirit of public service. She was then, and remains, a passionate advocate for teachers and their need for quality professional support. Her dedication to the young people of New York City is an example for us all. We are honored to follow her lead. When schools are able to retain their best teachers, students and teachers thrive. — The board and staff of Teaching Matters 3