To my friends in our community:
As many of you know, I’ll be retiring as Oak Park Education Foundation Executive Director at the end of December. I’m writing to say a heartfelt thank you for nearly 20 years of friendship, partnership, and support.
But first I want to let you know that the OPEF Board of Directors’ search for my replacement is well underway and they expect to have a new Executive Director by February 2017. In the meantime, our strong team is in the capable and experienced hands of Interim Executive Director Libbey Paul starting January 1. During Libbey’s tenure as OPEF’s Director of Communications and Development from 2014-16, she made major contributions to the organization’s growth and the development of our strategic plan.
Working with District 97 teachers and staff, community partners, volunteers and supporters has been a huge source of joy in my life. I can’t imagine a job more fun than the one I’ve had — building hands-on, project-based, mentor-reliant educational programs in partnership with thousands of Oak Parkers. Thank you for giving us your talent, time and funds because you believe in education, innovation, and our public schools.
I will be staying in Oak Park, staying involved in the community and of course continuing to support OPEF! I’d love to stay in touch and would be happy to hear from you at deb.j.abrahamson@gmail.com.
I will miss my job and all of you but am so proud of the work we’ve done together on behalf of D97 kids. You can check out our latest accomplishments in OPEF’s newly released 2015-16 annual report. Many, many thanks for your support of OPEF and your friendship through the years!
Best,
Deb