At AIM~Academy In Manayunk, Philadelphia's independent school for bright children who learn differently, each student can tell you the story of someone who we all know as a success, but who had struggled with a learning difference. There's Albert Einstein who was dyslexic. He couldn't remember the months in the year, but he was beyond brilliant in math and science. Or Walt Disney who overcame his reading difficulties to become one of our nation's most respected figures in the entertainment industry. And some of today's top performers such as Tom Cruise, Jay Leno, and Whoopi Goldberg, did not let dyslexia keep them from following their dreams. We all know what happened-they became stars!
In honor of all those who have led the way, AIM~Academy In Manayunk established its annual award gala-AIM for the Stars, to recognize individuals who overcame learning challenges and through their success, leadership and spirit, have made significant contributions to enhance educational opportunities for children who learn differently.
In 2008, the inaugural recipient of the Sally L. Smith Founder's Award-named after the inspirational woman who started The Lab School of Washington after which AIM is modeled-was Matthew S. Naylor (Berwyn). Matt is chief executive officer of The Elite Companies and has been designated as one of the regions' top 40 to watch under 40. He attributes much of his success professionally and personally to the tenacity that came from overcoming the challenges of dyslexia. Knowing that many of the CEOs on Forbes 100 list are dyslexic, gave Matt the courage to succeed.
This year, Matt and Heather Naylor are joined by the incredible Patti LaBelle and AIM parents Mitch and Melissa Codkind (Lower Gwynedd), and Jim and Kristin Schinella (Wynnewood) in chairing the AIM for the Stars gala on November 5, 2009 at the Crystal Tea Room in Center City. Lead sponsors of the event include the Villari Brandes & Kline law firm (Conshohocken), PRWT, and the Elite Companies (Berwyn).
Like Matt, this year's honorees are outstanding inspirations for AIM's students and their families. Dr. Ned Hallowell is an internationally renowned psychiatrist and author who has brought public understanding to the world of ADHD. Dr. Dennis Wint is President & CEO of The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia's outstanding institution of innovative science education. Each honoree has overcome his own learning challenges to succeed and benefit others who learn differently.
So on November 5th, come and AIM for the Stars with AIM~Academy In Manayunk and learn how adults who have overcome learning differences now inspire a new generation. Complete information can be found at AIM's web site, www.aimpa.org.
