By Dan Murphy
One of the most difficult things for any person, business, community group or organization to do is to start anew, and create something that has not existed before. In Yonkers, 12 years ago, Wendy Nadel started with nothing but an idea: to supplement the 25,000 students in the Yonkers Public Schools and help them achieve, learn and go to college.
And with that idea, Yonkers Partners in Education was born. Now, 12 years later, Nadel was honored for her persistence in getting corporate sponsorship and the dollars required to help the underprivileged but talented Yonkers students, during YPIE’s annual gala Oct. 30 at Sarah Lawrence College.
More than 500 friends, supporters and volunteers filled a room in SLC’s new Barbara Walters Campus Center to put college within reach for thousands of Yonkers students. In addition to Nadel, YPIE honored Sound Associates, Inc.
“It’s only fitting that we’re here on a college campus to honor Wendy Nadel and Sound Associates, who have made college a reality for so many Yonkers students,” said Samuel Wallis, executive director of YPIE. “People in this room are here to hold open the doors for those who come up behind them. People in this room want to make space for students, many of whom they’ll never meet, to be able to achieve their dreams.”
“When I look back on these past 12 years, there is so much to reflect on,” added Nadel, who stepped down this year leaving YPIE at the top of its game. “But, ultimately, I am most proud of the genuine goodness that an organization that was a mere idea 12 years ago has been able to radiate into the world.”
Frances, a YPIE alumna and Emory graduate, shared the tremendous impact Nadel had on her journey to and through college. “Wendy, I am forever grateful to you and your family for making my dreams a reality,” she said. “Thank you for being my trusted mentor and friend.”
YPIE announced the establishment of the Wendy R. Nadel Volunteer Legacy Award, sponsored by the Cross County Shopping Center, as a way to recognize its committed volunteers for years to come. Yonkers school leaders, community officials, and YPIE Student Ambassadors joined to celebrate this special evening.
Since 2007, YPIE has partnered with Yonkers Public Schools to ensure that students are ready for, enroll in, and complete college. To learn how to get involved or to make a contribution, visit ypie.org.
