MIE Honors Mike Contompasis with Reception

On Wednesday, October 19, Mass Insight Education celebrated the legacy of Michael G. Contompasis, a long-time leader in Boston education, who served MIE for eight years until August 2016. During that time Mike was a tireless advocate for ensuring all students have access to rigorous academics, enabling them to pursue college and career success. Mike began his long career in education as an AP biology teacher, then spent 22 years as a revered Boston Latin School (BLS) headmaster. He later served as COO and superintendent of Boston Public Schools, and as a trusted adviser to Boston mayors.

MIE was proud to celebrate at the reception with special guest Angela Menino and a host committee that included:

• Mike Caljouw (BLS ’84)                
• Fred Clark
• Laury Coolidge
• Katherine Craven (BLS ’90)                               
• Cathy Minehan
• Rep. Alice Peisch                              
• Martha Pierce                                
• Neil Sullivan

In addition to special remarks from MIE CEO and President Dr. Susan F. Lusi and MIE Founder Bill Guenther, we were honored to have Secretary Jim Peyser from the Executive Office of Education; Rahn Dorsey, Chief of Education for the City of Boston; and Commissioner Mitchell Chester from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education speak to the lasting impact Mike has made on students, teachers and schools throughout the Commonwealth.

In honor of Mike’s legacy, MIE launched the Michael G. Contompasis Leadership Award for excellence in education leadership, to be presented at MIE’s annual Partners In Excellence (PIE) Awards Celebration. PIE recognizes exceptional AP teachers across the state, and next year’s awards will be held on April 4 at the Renaissance Waterfront Hotel in Boston.

MIE also launched the Michael G. Contompasis Giving Society for leadership gifts of $1,000 or more, which will allow the organization to build on the critical work Mike spearheaded during his tenure. If you make your gift to the Society before March 31, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar! This $50,000 matching challenge is sponsored by Bill Schawbel, Mike’s friend and MIE supporter.