Changing your name is a big deal. Whether you’re changing your own name or the name of the organization you represent, it all takes a great deal of thought. So, after speaking with my colleagues, board members and School Superintendent Jose Dotres about my mission as CEO and the future of The Foundation for New Education Initiatives, we felt it was time for a refresh.

Today I’m thrilled to announce that we are changing the name of our organization to Miami-Dade County Public Schools Foundation.

Simply put, this change brings clarity. Our name is now our mission.

We are the “go to” philanthropic resource that supports the thousands of people who study, work and lead more than 366 schools in the third largest school district in the country. It’s a big job that has become larger, as our public schools compete in a shifting landscape, in which taxpayer support — while significant — is not enough to meet all our students’ needs. It’s why we exist – to cultivate donor relationships and mobilize alumni and advocates, in order to invest in student learning.

My team and I are so energized by this fresh start! We are ready to spread the news and with your help identify and fund areas of needs and pathways to academic excellence. If you or a visionary person in your network has a heart for educating students, we want to know more.

What’s in a name? So much – vision, dreams, and expectations. I can proudly say that Miami-Dade County Public Schools Foundation stands for ensuring academic excellence and accessibility for the children who attend our public schools.

We invite you to join us in this exciting new chapter. Together, we can strengthen educational outcomes and enrich student experiences by funding areas of need that have direct and measurable impact on student learning and achievement.

If you know me, you know I love a challenge — and I’ll meet it head on. This name change is a fresh start in the face of needs that are bigger than many realize. Together,we can rise to that challenge and make a lasting impact for every student in Miami-Dade County Public Schools.