its reputation for meeting students where they are . The family moved to Park Ridge from Chicago in order to be close to SAA when Joe enrolled in the fall of 1997 .
From the very beginning , Mark shared his time and skills in support of the fledgling school . Mark first became involved as a volunteer in the parent organization at the school . He conducted science experiments with the eager young learners on a weekly basis . After Joe ’ s younger brother , Dan , enrolled in the fall of 1998 , Mark joined the Board of Trustees .
As a trustee , Mark worked industriously alongside others to strengthen the new school ’ s financial footing , and did all he could to ensure its survival and growth . He has served on the Board of Trustees continuously since 1998 , and over the years has led as Finance Secretary , Board Chair , and Chair of the Admissions and Marketing Committee .
His dedication , intelligence , and humor have helped guide the evolution of SAA from its promising beginnings to the mature and stable institution we know today . Mark played a key role in seeing SAA through several changes in leadership and worked tirelessly to realize the dream of building a school and campus as unique as our mission .
His continued commitment to keeping the school missioncentered , his constant push towards professionalization of SAA at all levels , and his determination to prioritize the well being of the students above all else have left their indelible mark on the school . It is no stretch to say that Science & Arts Academy wouldn ’ t be what it is today without Mark ’ s selfless dedication .
We thank and honor Mark Anderson for being a deeply committed and dedicated supporter of SAA ’ s mission and core values , and name him the 2017 Blue Horizon Award Honoree .
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