JOY (GIDDING) DRYFOOS

It's been almost a year since Joy's passing, but her beautiful smile, and her inspiration still totally alive. I'm thankful that she crossed my path! Hersilia

May 4, 2012

I could not have asked for a better guide into the world of full service community schools than Joy. I had the unbelievable good fortune to meet Joy when I became the director of Boston's Full-service Schools Roundtable in 2007. While I 'knew' the fields of family engagement, out-of-school time, early childhood, and partnerships, it was Joy's vision and drive that was instrumental in developing a more comprehensive, coordinated, and integrated approach at the school and system level.

The memories I cherish most are hearing Joy's stories - both personal and work-related - about breaking down barriers and the time we spent 'on the road'. In particular was one visit to the MIT Museum where we played with and marveled at holograms and the latest engineering breakthough designs. Joy was a keen observer who opened my eyes and heart in ways that I will never forget.

How Joy will be missed! And, by those of us who worked with her to equalize access to safe and effective family planning and reproductive health services. Joy was a big part of setting that effort on a firm foundation of data and analysis - putting her caring and clear thinking to work to show policy makers and program folks what needed to be done.
Joy loved her family, George and Paul, cared about people, important and less recognized, and left her mark on us and our world.
Three cheers for Joy!

I only knew Joy by phone. We spoke several times about increasing the relationships between communities and schools. I really appreciated and valued our conversations. May strength, peace, and fond memories be with her family.
Dr. Debra R. Sullivan
President
Praxis Institute for Early Childhood Education
Seattle, Washington

The staff of the Center for School and Community Services of FHI 360 (formerly AED) deeply appreciate Joy's steady commitment and generous collegiality throughout the years. She was a thoughtful, critical friend to us in our work with adolescents and their school communities.

We send our sympathy to her family and know that we will continue to be guided by her wisdom and caring.

Patrick Montesano, Director, Center for School and Community Services, FHI 360