MICHAEL R. SANDLER

I met Michael when he sat near me in High School because we were seated alphabetically and Sturgis was close to Sandler. He was a dear, fine man, a good friend of good morals. I remember classes together and the very nice and fun his mother gave when we graduated from high school.

A terrific guy and friend. I still miss talking with Mike.

Mike and I became friends when we sat near one another in French class. We were seated alphabetically and we became friends. I thought he was a great guy and am not surprised at his many accomplishments. I moved to CT after college and I remember my mother telling me that she had seen Mike and his lovely wife and three darling daughters at some event in Portland. She was very happy to have seen him and his family. very happy for him as am I.

Ellen-Michael and I were so sad and shocked to hear about the loss of Mike. Although we hadn't seen him and you for a while, I always expected to see his - and your smiling face at some gathering. I will remember Mike when he was a fellow at the Kennedy School of Government and was proud of him and felt we were colleagues - always trying to make a difference. He certainly did! and the Ben Franklin quote describes what I remember about him"Energy and Persistence conquer all things." Our deep...

Mike was one of the most extraordinary people I've had the pleasure of working with. He was remarkably generous. I got to know Mike while working for Business Week in Boston in the late 1990s. When this chapter of my life ended in 2006 (due to the growing financial strains in print journalism), Mike played a major role in helping me find a new position at the Kennedy School. This ultimately launched my second career in education reform. I also had the pleasure of attending Red Sox games...

This is very sad to learn. Mike was a good friend, an engaged mentor, a generous philanthropist, a wonderful dinner companion, and an exceptional guide to all things Boston and UPenn. Like all of us, I shall miss him greatly.

Mike defined what "friend" means to me. Over the many years we knew each other (education entrepreneurs, education industry, education business, education events, education consulting) Mike was mentally, if not always physically, by my side. We'd spend countless hours on the phone, which seemed like minutes. We freely argued issues, ideas, tactics, and philosophies, and never seemed to tire of it. In the process we shared what we thought were great victories along with some ignoble...

Deeply saddened by this news. Mike was a true inspiration, a great collaborator, and a cherished friend. My love and condolences to Ellen, the girls, and their families.

Ellen - so sorry to hear and read about Michael's passing. I was so fond of him and his passion for the arts and especially arts education. You both are true family to The Wang Center. Micheal was a mentor for me and it hard to believe but I am still the CEO of the Center entering into my 35th year! Our deepest condolences!

Arts Heal, Joe Spaulding