"Just Do It." These familiar words were often said by the late Pete Grimes when he wanted to accomplish a job or achieve a goal. Pete was a leader and motivator and he used his resources, talents, and energy for many causes in the community. During his seven years on the Bexley Education Foundation Board of Governors, Pete made things happen and he made it fun!

As a tribute to Pete and his commitment to the Bexley Schools, his wife Beth and their two sons, both Bexley grads, Bill '89 and Michael '98, established the Pete Grimes "Just Do It" Fund for a Leadership Program for Bexley High School and Middle School students. The Fund was established through a one-time fundraising effort planned and implemented by Beth, Bill and Michael. In true Pete form, they raised $115,000 from 185 donors in a one-time fundraising effort!

In its first two years, Bexley High School implemented the leadership program through a contract with the national organization LeaderSpark, but for 2008, the high school created its own curriculum, developed by high school Principal John Kellogg with guidance from a committee led by parent and Pier 1 executive Sharon Leite. They renamed the program Leadership Bexley, and to launch the new initiative, President Gordon Gee of The Ohio State University came to Bexley High School and shared his thoughts on leadership with the entire student body. "One has to learn to deal with criticism in leadership roles," Gee told the students. "If you're not getting criticized, you're not doing anything."

Through an application process, 34 sophomores and juniors were selected to participate in the five-week, five-session Leadership Bexley program, facilitated by members of the business and nonprofit community. The first Leadership Bexley class graduated in April.

The Middle School is using the "Rising Star" program, with plans to incorporate it into the curriculum.

As is true for all BEF endowment funds, the strength of the endowment is maintained while providing financial support for its signature program each year.