Thank you from Deanna Boston
January 17, 2025
Dear Supporters and Friends of Edmond Public Schools Foundation,
As a timeless saying reminds us, "plant trees under whose shade you shall never sit," this sentiment encapsulates our work at EPSF.
As I prepare to transition from my role as CEO of the Edmond Public Schools Foundation (EPSF), I am filled with appreciation and pride. The past six years have been a remarkable journey, one in which we have planted many seeds that will grow and flourish long into the future. Together, we’ve created a lasting legacy that will continue to support and uplift students, teachers, and the community for generations to come.
Among my proudest achievements is the transition to the Classroom Support Program through DonorsChoose. The implementation of this program ensures long-term sustainability of delivering materials to classrooms. Teachers and principals have shared heartfelt stories of how this program has transformed their classrooms, bringing resources and opportunities that were once out of reach. Hearing teachers and principals say it has changed the culture of their school is a reminder of the enduring impact we've made.
The Student Ambassador Program was established to help build future advocates, leaders, and philanthropists. Watching these young leaders develop their own projects that impact the district has been a highlight of my tenure. One afternoon, as a group of ambassadors sat in my office discussing endowments and legacy giving, their curiosity and drive were contagious. This conversation led to them raising the funds to endow the Teacher of the Year Award! They learned that their contributions today could shape the future for those who follow—planting trees for generations to come.
On a personal note, the establishment of the Support Employee of the Year Award holds a special place in my heart. When the superintendent approached me with the idea, I was immediately reminded of my mother, who was once honored as a support employee of the year in the district where she worked for decades. Creating this award and subsequently endowing it with the help of the DeSpain family, was a deeply personal project. It’s one of the many awards established by community donors that will honor those who tirelessly support our schools forever!
As I pass the baton on June 30, 2025, I do so with immense pride in all we've accomplished together. The Foundation's growth demonstrates a commitment to future generations of Edmond Public Schools students. We've built a strong, sustainable future for EPSF, and I am confident that with your continued support, the Foundation will reach even greater heights.
Thank you to Anita, the anchor of EPSF; the staff who went above and beyond; the board members who selflessly gave their time and talent; the donors who believed in supporting public education; the volunteers who showed up willingly; and the community partners who have been an integral part of EPSF’s success. To the students, teachers, and families of Edmond Public Schools—your stories, passion, and dreams have inspired my work every day.
Though I am stepping down as CEO, my commitment to EPSF and its mission remains steadfast. I look forward to the continued growth and success of EPSF, with the community’s ongoing support for its future leadership and initiatives benefiting Edmond Public Schools students.
Together, we have planted trees whose shade will nurture countless future generations. For that, I am truly thankful.
With deepest appreciation,
Deanna Boston
CEO, Edmond Public Schools Foundation
Dear Supporters and Friends of Edmond Public Schools Foundation,
As a timeless saying reminds us, "plant trees under whose shade you shall never sit," this sentiment encapsulates our work at EPSF.
As I prepare to transition from my role as CEO of the Edmond Public Schools Foundation (EPSF), I am filled with appreciation and pride. The past six years have been a remarkable journey, one in which we have planted many seeds that will grow and flourish long into the future. Together, we’ve created a lasting legacy that will continue to support and uplift students, teachers, and the community for generations to come.
Among my proudest achievements is the transition to the Classroom Support Program through DonorsChoose. The implementation of this program ensures long-term sustainability of delivering materials to classrooms. Teachers and principals have shared heartfelt stories of how this program has transformed their classrooms, bringing resources and opportunities that were once out of reach. Hearing teachers and principals say it has changed the culture of their school is a reminder of the enduring impact we've made.
The Student Ambassador Program was established to help build future advocates, leaders, and philanthropists. Watching these young leaders develop their own projects that impact the district has been a highlight of my tenure. One afternoon, as a group of ambassadors sat in my office discussing endowments and legacy giving, their curiosity and drive were contagious. This conversation led to them raising the funds to endow the Teacher of the Year Award! They learned that their contributions today could shape the future for those who follow—planting trees for generations to come.
On a personal note, the establishment of the Support Employee of the Year Award holds a special place in my heart. When the superintendent approached me with the idea, I was immediately reminded of my mother, who was once honored as a support employee of the year in the district where she worked for decades. Creating this award and subsequently endowing it with the help of the DeSpain family, was a deeply personal project. It’s one of the many awards established by community donors that will honor those who tirelessly support our schools forever!
As I pass the baton on June 30, 2025, I do so with immense pride in all we've accomplished together. The Foundation's growth demonstrates a commitment to future generations of Edmond Public Schools students. We've built a strong, sustainable future for EPSF, and I am confident that with your continued support, the Foundation will reach even greater heights.
Thank you to Anita, the anchor of EPSF; the staff who went above and beyond; the board members who selflessly gave their time and talent; the donors who believed in supporting public education; the volunteers who showed up willingly; and the community partners who have been an integral part of EPSF’s success. To the students, teachers, and families of Edmond Public Schools—your stories, passion, and dreams have inspired my work every day.
Though I am stepping down as CEO, my commitment to EPSF and its mission remains steadfast. I look forward to the continued growth and success of EPSF, with the community’s ongoing support for its future leadership and initiatives benefiting Edmond Public Schools students.
Together, we have planted trees whose shade will nurture countless future generations. For that, I am truly thankful.
With deepest appreciation,
Deanna Boston
CEO, Edmond Public Schools Foundation
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