2005: Dee Dickinson

The Junior League of Seattle

Causes/Issue Area(s): Education

Honors/Achievements: Founder/CEO of New Horizons for Learning

Dee Dickinson is one of the world's foremost experts on learning and human development. A member of the Junior League of Seattle for more than 50 years, Dickinson has pioneered a number of innovative programs that continue to enrich the lives of countless schoolchildren, parents, and educators. Many of these programs began as League projects. The Northwest Art Project, which she founded in the mid-Sixties to bring the rich heritage of Northwest artists to local elementary school children, trained teachers to use art as a key educational tool. Fifteen years ago, as part of a League research project, Dickinson produced a powerful video, "Day One," which educates new parents on how to raise physically and emotionally healthy children with lifelong learning capacities. The video, recently updated, is used in hospitals and birthing centers across the country and has been translated into Spanish, French and Hebrew.

Like Mary Harriman, Dickinson is an "agent of change" who has created a lasting legacy that sets the stage for future generations to continue improving lives. In 1980, Dickinson established New Horizons for Learning, an international network of educators that provides information on the most effective teaching and learning strategies for all ages and abilities. A critical resource for teachers and other educators, the nonprofit organization provides information free of charge. The organization's award-winning Internet site (www.newhorizons.org) receives four million hits a month.

Indefatigable in her quest to improve the learning experience, Dickinson truly embodies the values and vision of The Junior League. In accepting her award, presented at a special luncheon ceremony in New Orleans during the 83rd AJLI Annual Conference, Dee challenged League members to "keep well-informed" and show what "a large group of committed women can do to make the world a better place."