Wilbraham Man Joins Willie Ross School Board

January 26, 2011 - The Willie Ross School for the Deaf welcomes James H. Ross III, of Wilbraham, to the school’s Board of Trustees. Ross, a second-generation supporter of the school, takes his father’s place on the board.
 
James R. Ross Jr. served for 20 years as a treasurer and a member of the executive committee.

The younger Ross said of his father’s dedication to the school, “My dad served on the board for many years and over time I learned from him about the mission of the school, the quality of the people that work there and the need for the school's service in our community. Towards the end of my father's life, I was able to help him attend meetings and other functions. We also discussed my taking his place on the board which I was happy and proud to do considering his passion for and legacy at the school."

"My father and I shared a strong belief in community service and philanthropy and it seemed natural for me to continue his involvement with the school. The Willie Ross philosophy of focusing on a person's abilities and not disability is one that resonates with me," Ross said.
According to Louis Abbate, Ed.D, President and CEO of the school, “We’re so pleased that James has chosen to join the board in his father’s stead and carry on the family’s legacy of support of our school.”
 
The school serves children from 18 different school districts in Western Massachusetts.  The Willie Ross School for the Deaf provides a comprehensive educational program stressing academic excellence that focuses on the development of students’ intellectual, social, and emotional growth from the early childhood level through high school. Willie Ross serves students at its main campus in Longmeadow and at its partnership campus located in the East Longmeadow Schools. Mainstreaming opportunities are provided at the partnership campus.