An Interview with Dean Stewart Photography
- How did you first get involved in with Brevard Schools Foundation?
After volunteering to take photos at the golf tournament, and learned how the Foundation impacted our schools; their families; and the entire education system through programs like Take Stock in Children and the Back to School Supply Drive, I had to get involved more. The more I serve on the Board, the more I learn of the needs in our schools. - What’s your first memory of school?
Nap time after milk and cookies in Kindergarten.
- What has surprised you most about working with Brevard Schools Foundation?
How much of a need there is for students, teachers and schools that isn’t covered by the budget along with how many responsibilities have been heaped on our schools beyond their primary job of educating our children.
- What’s the best/worst thing to happen since you started working with Brevard Schools Foundation?
Best: I met my wife while working on golf tournament. Worse: The passing of Board member Max Snider, and my friend and outstanding educator Tom McIntyre
- What do you wish other people knew about Brevard Schools Foundation?
How much of a difference we all can make with relatively little effort by getting involved and pitching in
- Why are you supporting Brevard Schools Foundation as opposed to other groups working on education?
We do support other groups. However, BSF has the most direct effect on those in need in our community and schools where we and our employees live as well send our children. I, my son, and many of our employees are products of the Brevard County School system which leads us to give back to what has helped us to be who we are.
- When your friends/family find out that you are involved with Brevard Schools Foundation, what do they say or ask?
They ask what the difference is between the Foundation and the School Board not knowing the Foundation is involved with helping where the School Board can’t fund or support.
- What might someone be surprised to know about you?
That I do exist. Seriously, that I owe most of my education to the Brevard public school system not having a college degree and learning through trade associations and business books.
- What would you tell someone who is thinking about donating?
That many of the programs BSF supports and funds like Take Stock in Children are matched by the state doubling the effect of their donation.
- What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?
I volunteer at my church; enjoy boating with my family and occasionally chase golf balls into the woods.