Farewell and Thanks

By Susie Kaeser, Executive Director

Reaching Heights has been in the center of my life since 1988 when a number of Cleveland Heights-University Heights public school advocates met on my deck to create a citizen organization that could mobilize the community to be a powerful resource for our public schools.  The idea took off, and by 1989 I was a founding trustee of a new organization, then its president, and in 1992, the Executive Director.  It’s been the focus for my volunteer and professional life ever since! This is a very special community and school district and it has been completely rewarding to have dedicated these years to promoting the continued success of both.

When I began my role as Executive Director, my children were aged six and four and I was ready to throw myself into making their public schools the public schools that every child deserves.  It has been a wonderful calling, job, and opportunity to make a difference and to know our community and its remarkable educators.

Now it is time for the next generation to take this sound and established organization into the future, and to forge new relationships with new members of our ever evolving community.  It’s a great moment for change. 

The trustees have started the search in time for a smooth transition in late fall.  I look forward to the chance to reinvent myself and to cheer on this great organization as it continues to prosper with new leadership.