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Joe moved to Pittsburgh in 1985 from Atlanta, GA, and Sarah moved to Pittsburgh in 1996 from Chapel Hill, NC.  The two originally met (although Sarah was too young to remember) in 1962 when each of their families lived in Geneva, Switzerland. Joe and Sarah attended the International School (“Ecolint”) and their families attended The American Church, where Sarah’s father was the rector.  

“We ‘re-met’ in 1995 at an Ecolint reunion. Joe and I currently live in Squirrel Hill, and we absolutely love the neighborhood, the City, and the region,” said Sarah. “We also have four children and two grandchildren -- none of whom live in Pittsburgh, unfortunately.”

Joe and Sarah got involved with TNA when co-founder, Reverend Tom Johnson, brought a small group of TNA students to speak at their church. 

“We were so impressed by the students’ presentations and maturity.  Shortly thereafter, Joe sat next to two forces of nature: TNA co-founder, Jodie Moore, and current Director of Development and Career Exposure & Workforce Development, Sheila Rawlings, at a luncheon. We were then given a tour of the school by Tom Taylor, a Board member who had been asking us to come see the school…  Joe and I were hooked and delighted to become involved,” said Sarah.

“We are very excited and eagerly look forward to meeting Wes Moore and learning more about him.  Joe and I have both read “The Other Wes Moore” and just ordered a copy of “The Work” about Wes’ quest to find a meaningful life,” said Sarah.

Joe and Sarah believe that giving the students access to the amazing authors for learning, conversation, and discussion is the best part of the Speaker Series.  

“The evening event is always fun and enlightening!” said Joe. “The series is focused:  It educates both the event attendees and the TNA students,” he continued.

Joe and Sarah feel a strong moral obligation to help make such opportunities like the Speaker Series available to others.

 
“We are both beneficiaries of excellent educations… The folks involved with TNA are quality, committed individuals who are interesting and enjoyable to be with, and seeing what TNA staff and students have accomplished is inordinately satisfying - and fun!” said Joe. “Our lives have been enriched by our participation, and we hope to contribute to continued success in the future.”