Press Release:

Boys & Girls Harbor Appoints Thomas Howard Jr. Executive Director

Brings research-based reform experience to historic institution

NEW YORK, NY – The Board of Directors of Boys & Girls Harbor announced today that Thomas Howard, Jr., Ed.D. has been appointed Executive Director.

Dr. Howard has more than 25 years of experience in the field of education, with particular expertise working with students and teachers to put education innovations into practice.  Most recently he was Chief Academic Officer of Victory Schools, Inc.  Victory Schools is a provider of management and advisory services to individual schools and school districts.  Prior to joining Victory Schools, he was Associate Director of the Center for Data-Driven Reform in Education and Director of Leadership for the Success for All Foundation in Baltimore, MD.

Stephen J. Dannhauser, Chairman of the Board of Boys & Girls Harbor, said, “Our extensive search yielded an impressive crop of candidates. Dr. Howard’s candidacy stood out due in large part to his experience in providing research-based strategic support to public and charter schools.  The Harbor’s staff, faculty, broader community and most importantly the children we serve will all benefit tremendously from his leadership. ”

Dr. Howard also served as principal for the City of Burlington, NJ Board of Education in where he improved the district's lowest performing school to make Adequate Yearly Progress for three consecutive years.  In May 2006, Dr. Howard was recognized by the New Jersey Association of School Psychologists with their Educator of the Year Award.

“I am passionate about creating great schools and programs that serve the needs of 21^st century children,” said Dr. Howard.  “To be globally competitive, our children need distinguished programs that allow them to discover their individual talents and nurture their intellect at the highest levels of human potential. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve as Executive Director at the Boys & Girls Harbor, an organization with a long commitment to academic excellence and personal success.”

Founded in 1937 by Anthony (“Tony”) Drexel Duke, and now located at One East 104^th Street in East Harlem, New York City, Boys & Girls Harbor serves more than 1,800 children from low income households.  The Harbor provides multi-dimensional education, cultural enrichment and social services in a caring yet demanding school environment that fosters confidence in its children and young people and lays the foundation for their success in college, career and community.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2010

CONTACT
Jane Lindberg
646-981-2681