Robert D. Fox. Esq. Partner of Manko Gold Katcher & Fox

"Working with the Academies over the past 14 years has been extremely rewarding. The Academies are everything good about urban education”

How do you explain the Philadelphia Academies. Inc. to someone who has never heard of our work? Our Board of Directors determined the best way is to hear the words and see the faces of the individuals who bring the Academy Model to life. In the coming months, you will see the "Faces" of students, parents, teachers and business volunteers used in a variety of our publicity materials and at special events.

One business leader, Robert D. Fox, is as passionate about his own field-environmental law-as he is about the Philadelphia Academies, Inc.'s model for connecting youth to careers. The environmental Technology Academy at Abraham Lincoln High School is, in part, the product of Robb's passion. He became involved with the Academies in 1988, as a member of the Board of Governors of the Environmental Technology Academy (ETA) and now serves as a member and former Chairman of the Board of Directors of Philadelphia Academies, Inc.

Robb has used his knowledge of the environmental field to help, shape the ETA into a program that produces exciting educational experiences and marketable job skills for graduates. Students learn about soil and water contamination, industrial waste, landfills and pollution, and receive practical training in skills ranging from sampling techniques to stream and soil testing.

Robb also works to ensure that students of the Philadelphia Academies, Inc. benefit from opportunities to broaden their horizons. He has helped organize and host student foreign exchange programs in which Academy students have been paired with Israeli, Russian and Chinese students with a similar interest in the environment. He has provided strong leadership and support for the Philadelphia Academies, Inc. including many hours of donated legal services, time with Academy students and staff, and a Fox family college scholarship fund for ETA graduates.

Anyone who wonders whether high school students truly notice and appreciate Robb's contributions should take a trip to Abraham Lincoln High School. The Robert D. Fox Garden, created by students and staff, provides a colorful and vivid affirmation of the impact of Robb's commitment.