In Memoriam to Joe Ruffolo- passed on December 27, 2011
Joe was elected as the director of the Olin B. and Desta Schwab Foundation and in that capacity served as chair of the investment committee, and as a member of the audit committee.
He advocated the importance of inviting young people to serve on local not for profit boards and become involved in community leadership. He also pressed for change in secondary education to better the education and employment needs in a rapidly changing global economy.
In addition, Joe submitted a proposal to the Schwab Board entitled “Project Dream”. This concept for students at the sixth grade level and above, is to open up the world of careers, inspiring them to think about what is possible and how to get there, and about what it takes to be a competitor in tomorrow’s job market.
The Schwab Board is currently in the concept stages of “Project Dream”, with the goal of bringing this idea to reality in recognition of Joe’s involvement and dedication to young people of Northeast Indiana to realize their dreams.
The Foundation will miss his visionary outlook and energy he brought to the Board of Directors.