Thank you Derran Wimer!

A note from Derran Wimer,

Last fall, on a gorgeous, crisp, and sunny afternoon Sue and I were lucky enough to hitch a ride on the Goodyear blimp. What a great experience! What a ride. A purely Akron experience. Floating over greater Akron, over Derby Downs, Firestone Country Club, Summit Lake, University of Akron, Downtown, Highland Square, Goodyear’s HQ, and Wingfoot. The invisible thermals gently move the mighty airship up and down, nose up and nose down as it glides along casting a characteristic shadow on the landscape below. People on the ground cannot help but look up and feel good. It was quite a ride!

As I write this, I am wrapping up another uniquely Akron experience. For the past nine years, I have been lucky enough to hitch a ride on the SEI airship! The thermals lifting this ship have been constant. The welcoming community, collaborative agencies, generous investors, dedicated community leaders, insightful government officials, visionary school partners, and beautiful, inspirational young people all providing the “lift” for SEI. The view from my spot has been spectacular. I have witnessed a tapestry of commitment, caring, inspiration, generosity, ingenuity, and selflessness all for the benefit of our young people. I promise that people around the country who work in organizations like SEI cannot help but look at Greater Akron and be amazed at what we can accomplish – together.

Now, I am going to stand on the ground and look up in wonder and amazement as SEI continues its voyage toward increased equitable student outcomes under the inspirational leadership of Matt Deevers and the incredibly talented SEI team. It was quite a ride!