When I began writing the message for the 2007 Annual Report, I had just completed my first six months as NEED’s Executive Director.  I recall thinking, “Can NEED possibly get any busier and more exciting than it is right now?”  The answer is a resounding YES.  As energy continues to be the subject of dinner table conversations and daily media reports, NEED continues to see extraordinary interest and growth from classrooms nationwide.  We are fortunate to have committed partners and sponsors who support the increasing demand for NEED materials and training in populated urban areas and small rural communities.  Some of NEED’s sponsors have provided support for classrooms for well over 15 years.  Other sponsors have found value in NEED’s comprehensive programming and joined us in 2007 and 2008 to reach more teachers and students than ever before. No matter the reason, the support of our schools, sponsors and partners has helped NEED teach the teachers and students who will map out the future of energy development, production, and use in this country and throughout the world. 

Success builds a foundation for greater success. Programs like our Pacific Gas and Electric Solar Schools Program and our Duke Energy efficiency programs paved the way for new programs. The new ConocoPhillips-NEED partnership reaches 24 communities around the country– bringing teacher training and hands-on curriculum materials to local teachers. The TXU Energy Solar Academy brings the science of energy and solar education to schools across Texas, while the ComEd energy education program brings teacher training focused on the science of energy and electricity generation and economics to teachers in the Chicago area. Dominion responded when teachers asked for an expanded climate change component to NEED curriculum and is supporting curriculum development and pilot workshops. These partners and other new and exciting opportunities are highlighted throughout the 2008 Annual Report. 

This year, I am pleased to honor two of NEED’s strongest supporters with 2008 Distinguished Service Awards. Irene Brown and Viola Henry have taught me a great deal personally and professionally about dedication and service to energy education. These two women have reached countless teachers and students through teaching, learning, and philanthropy.  Our 2008 State Program of the Year goes to the Ohio Energy Project-- a great team of individuals who have built an extraordinarily strong Ohio energy education network celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. 

This message gives me the opportunity to pause and say how grateful we are to the great students, teachers, administrators, parents, sponsors, and partners in the NEED family.  It is safe to say that this NEED staff, as well as our Board of Directors, Teacher Advisory Board, subject matter experts, sponsors and lead teachers have the energy to make so much happen and to keep up with the demand for energy education nationwide.  We have much to accomplish, and many people to educate about energy. NEED is ready, capable, efficient, and fun. 

To the teachers, students, and parents assembled in Washington, DC for our 28th Annual Youth Awards Program for Energy Achievement, congratulations on a job well done. I ask that you stick with us and stay involved as we face the energy challenges and opportunities ahead. 

With gratitude,

Mary E. Spruill
Executive Director