About ADF

Mission

The Academic Distinction Fund supports innovative actions that lead to academic excellence for students in East Baton Rouge Parish public schools. ADF promotes academic achievement for all students, encourages best practices in education, supports teachers in their work and professional growth, and fosters improved teaching and learning in public schools.

History

Founded in 1989, ADF is a major collaboration among schools, businesses, and the community, and is a vehicle for private sector leadership in advancing public education. The first Campaign for Academic Excellence was launched in 1989 and raised $2.7 million. A second Campaign was launched in 1999 to celebrate ten years of successful programs. It raised an additional $1.3 million. The ADF endowment is permanently managed by the Baton Rouge Area Foundation. The earnings from the endowment and additional community support fund ADF grants, programs and special projects.

Board of Directors

An active, 16 member board composed of representatives from business, education, and industry guides the Academic Distinction Fund. Because ADF is an independent discretionary fund, no school district representative serves on the board.

Our board of directors volunteer their time and valuable resources to make lasting contributions to the future of the Academic Distinction Fund. They ensure that the purpose and approved programs of the Fund are implemented and ADF operates according to guidelines set by the Baton Rouge Area Foundation.

Past Chairs

• Jamey Firnberg
• Carey Messina
• Willie Johnson
• Bobby Yarborough
• Kevin Lyle
• C. Kris Kirkpatrick
• Charles Valluzzo
• Mary Kay Brown

ADF Staff

Martis Jones, Ph.D., Executive Director
martis.jones@adfbr.org
225-922-4560

Debbie Charbonnet, Executive Assistant
debbie.charbonnet@adfbr.org
225-922-4560

Lori M. Smith, Program Director
lori.smith@adfbr.org
225-922-4560

Missy Durham, Program Facilitator
missy.durham@adfbr.org
225-922-4560