Rochester Education Foundation Honors Three Fisher Alumni

October 26, 2023

During its annual celebration, the Rochester Education Foundation (REF) honored three St. John Fisher University alumni, including Dr. Marlowe Washington ’19 (Ed.D.), senior diversity officer at the University.

Marlowe Washington speaks at a podium.

The Toast to REF and Our Partners: Smiles and Opportunities event was held on Wednesday, Oct. 25, to celebrate education partners and recognize outstanding individuals who work to change and improve the lives of Rochester city students.  

Washington, along with alumnae Crystal Clark ’06 and Dr. Eva J. Thomas ’08 (M.S.), ’21 (Ed.D.), was honored with the Making a Difference in Education Award, recognizing their work in creating a culture of college-going among students in the Rochester City School District (RCSD).

Clark and Thomas have served long careers as educators and leaders in RCSD. Today, Clark serves as acting executive director of student support services for the district, advocating for scholars, parents, and the community. Her focus is on mental health, social-emotional learning, academic success, and college and career readiness. Throughout her 20-year career, Thomas has held several principalships at various RCSD schools, and is currently the building leader of Dr. Walter Cooper Academy School No. 10.

At Fisher, Washington oversees the University’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He has worked with REF’s Rochester College Access Network to provide information and resources to RCSD students interested in attending college.