Letter from the Executive Director: Winter 2024

As we begin 2024, I reflect on my journey as Executive Director at the Mary Lyon Foundation.  Three years have passed since Sue passed the torch, and I have done my best to walk in her footsteps and honor the legacy of Mary Lyon.

Over the past three years, I have often thought about the power of a supportive community.  Community can improve our lives, support us when times are complicated, and celebrate our triumphs. The social-emotional connection in the place we call home is essential to our growth and feelings of worth.

I have lived and visited many places and cultures throughout my thirty years working in education.  Only in West County have I found a community deeply rooted in a culture of support and resilience. People genuinely care about one another’s well-being, as evidenced by the actions taken to support our neighbors.

Over the past three years, I have witnessed our volunteers drive groceries weekly to families in need. Our community members ensured that the children of West County had gifts under the tree at Christmas. Neighborly volunteers transported a college student from Shelburne Center to Ashfield because there wasn’t a bus service driving to Ashfield. Our community rallied to support local families who lost everything in a fire.  Examples such as these happen time and time again.

This culture of support has afforded the Mary Lyon Foundation the opportunity to live its mission to the fullest.  Without a community like ours, the Mary Lyon Foundation would not be able to help with the extraordinary challenges we face. Thank you for believing in and supporting our mission in 2023. I know that together, in 2024, we can continue to do the necessary work to ensure every child in our district is ready to learn, succeed, and thrive.

Kristen Tillona-Baker
Executive Director