Celebrating 10 Years of Impact and Inspiration: A Message From Our President & CEO
It’s hard to believe that 10 years have passed since the Foundation was officially established. 10 years of unlocking possibilities. 10 years of forging connections. 10 years of enabling students to excel – in the classroom and beyond.
What started as anonymous scholarships from Dr. Forman S. Acton himself to a small number of Salem High School graduates has, over the last decade, blossomed into a multi-pronged support system for Salem’s youth that transforms countless lives. While our work has changed, our mission has most definitely not. We remain committed to honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Acton by removing barriers and creating pathways for students to advance their education, attain career success and become leaders in their communities. That focus will always remain the driving force behind our work.
It's been the honor of my career to serve the Salem community, first as the Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer and now as its third President and Chief Executive Officer. As we mark this tenth-anniversary milestone, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared – and continue to navigate each day.
When we first set out to inspire, educate and empower Salem’s youth, some didn’t think it was possible. The students of Salem faced a handful of unique challenges, and many questioned how one organization could truly make a difference. But over time, and in partnership with students, parents, community advocates and educators of the Salem City School District, we remained true to Dr. Acton’s lifelong vision for all students in Salem to enjoy the benefits of higher education. We developed and deployed programs tailor-made to address the needs of our community and foster an environment where lifelong learning is possible – not just for some, but for all.
The impact we’ve been able to generate over the past decade has been nothing short of tremendous. Together, we’ve established over 1,500 college savings accounts through our Acorn Fund. We’ve selected over 100 Forman Scholars to join our cornerstone scholarship program. We’ve watched hundreds of young adults graduate college, earn advanced degrees, land amazing jobs and achieve their dreams. We’ve emboldened students to grow into confident individuals, leaders and advocates for change.
Each success story inspires us, reignites our passion for education and rededicates us to this important work. I remain in awe of the students we serve, and I remain immensely hopeful for the future of our Salem community. As we look to the next 10 years and beyond, let us continue to promote the value of education. Let us continue encouraging our young people to think big and remind them that anything is possible. Let us embrace new ideas, harness emerging technologies and strengthen our partnerships – all to ensure that every student in our community has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Thank you for participating in this remarkable journey and passionately championing our work. Here’s to the next chapter of the Forman Acton Foundation, one in which we will generate even greater impact and inspiration – together.
Kortney Swanson Davis, Esq.
President and Chief Executive Officer