Reaching Heights Announces New Executive Director

News from Reaching Heights
For Immediate Release – September 7, 2007
Contact:  Susie Kaeser, 932-5110, rh@reachingheights.org

Reaching Heights has selected Patrick Mullen to replace Susie Kaeser as Executive Director of this citizen support organization for the Cleveland Heights-University Heights public schools. Ms. Kaeser, who was a founding trustee and has served as director since 1992, will retire in November following a transition period that will begin October 15 when Mr. Mullen will assume his new position.

 “We were looking for someone with a passion for public education and the Cleveland Heights-University Heights public schools, deep roots and involvement in our community, great communication skills, respect for educators, and the ability to dream big dreams and inspire others. We found that person in Patrick Mullen,” said Reginald T. Evans, president of the Reaching Heights Board of Trustees in announcing the decision.

For the past 12 years Mr. Mullen has balanced his career as a professional writer and editor for several trade publications with being a stay-at-home Dad.  He is married to Dr. Heather Mullen, and their children are currently enrolled at Boulevard Elementary School, Roxboro Middle School and Western Reserve Academy.

Mr. Mullen is active in the community and schools.  He is the past co-president of the Coventry Elementary School PTA, treasurer of the Boulevard PTA, chairs the Trustees Committee of Church of the Redeemer, and is active with his street club.

Reaching Heights mobilizes the community to support the success of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights public schools.  Our programs are entry points for citizens to become resources for the public schools.  The Many Villages volunteer tutoring program and School Team Grants offer teachers community resources to support student achievement.  Neighborhood newsletters, email newsletters, public forums, and the Thank-A-Teacher recognition program, inform the community and nurture pride in our schools. Public events including an annual adult community spelling bee and the Reaching Musical Heights concerts unite the community in support of our students. Our music initiatives including The Heights Summer Music Camp give students additional opportunities to hone their music skills and add to the tradition of musical excellence.  

 “I’ve loved every minute of this job,” said Kaeser. “Working with dedicated volunteers and a creative staff to build Reaching Heights has been full of rewards.  I’m hopeful about the future.  Our school district has strong leadership, great teachers, and a generous community.  Reaching Heights will continue to make a difference because it has a committed board of trustees, a valuable mission, solid footing, and a new executive director who has the desire and skills to build on our organization’s positive identity and make a difference to our community and children.”

According to Mullen, “I’ve enjoyed working with many strong supporters of the CH-UH schools.  I’ve also listened to parents and residents who believe the district’s best days are behind us. I believe it’s up to all of us to prove them wrong, through our own efforts and our ability to motivate others to join the cause.  Reaching Heights is a vital part of this endeavor. I welcome the chance to build on Susie’s legacy.”