Lattie F. Coor, Ph.D.  Chairman and CEO

The Center for the Future of Arizona was established to focus attention on great challenges for Arizona in the 21st century and to put "ideas to work" that advance quality of life for all Arizonans. One of the great challenges is education – and the need for successful schools that are determined to help every child succeed.

Thanks to the support of leaders throughout the community, the center launched a new initiative this year – the Beat the Odds Institute. It was established to implement the findings of the "Beat the Odds" research study, which continues to capture both statewide and national attention.

The message of Beat the Odds is important because it's a message of well-founded hope. It doesn't trivialize the seriousness of the challenges we face in education but it's also not the story of failure. Beat the Odds is about success. It says clearly that all children can learn, that "demography is not destiny," and that it is possible for schools to make the transition to greatness.

On behalf of all the organizations, schools and individuals committed to this goal, I thank you for your interest and your willingness to join with us.

Sincerely,



Lattie F. Coor, Ph.D.
Chairman and CEO
Center for the Future of Arizona