Michael McDermid's 32 years of service to the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site were legendary—serving as both President and Treasurer of the Site. During the course of his many years with us, he was instrumental in establishing the steady and measured fiscal policies that have ensured the Site's longevity and success. Mike's contributions also extended to the volunteer leadership we have been blessed with for so many years. As Chair of our former Nominating Committee, Mike was the key person in structuring the Board's wide and deep pool of talent and expertise, as we went about the challenging task of bringing new members to our Board who further strengthened its base and expanded its effectiveness. His quiet and unassuming manner, his insightful mind, and his ability to build consensus provide a shining example for any of us who strive to lead.
When Mike McDermid, general agent for MassMutual Financial Group in Buffalo for 31 years, passed away on May 31, 2014—unexpectedly and prematurely—a number of his business associates embarked upon an exciting project that will create a lasting legacy for the many contributions Mike made to the TR Site and to his Western New York community. With the establishment of the Michael J. McDermid Exemplary Citizenship Fund in October 2014, a three-year goal of $250,000 was established. To date, more than 40% of the goal has been raised.
Through the interest income that will be generated by this fund, the Site will be able to significantly expand its educational offerings-both on premise and through community engagement. The programming initiative will focus on issues central to Roosevelt's presidency and foundational to his enduring legacy, including immigration and urban poverty, race and social inequities, environmental conservation, big business and labor, and the U.S. role in global affairs. It will be directed primarily toward youth and will help individuals of all ages learn to identify as citizens of Western New York, the United States, and the world and inform and enlighten them as to the concomitant responsibilities of contemporary citizenship.
Through the Michael J. McDermid Exemplary Citizenship Fund, you can, indeed, bring this much needed project to fruition. Your investment will build the capacity of the Site to provide inquiry-based social studies curricula, establish the means by which the Site's educational efforts can be sustained into the future, and help to create future generations of knowledgeable and involved citizens. Please donate today.