David Gleason: 1945 - 2014

David Gleason, a true champion for children, died last week.  Gleason started his early childhood career at Bank Street College where he helped launch the Child Development Associate (CDA) program.  He next served as a Vice President of Children's World Learning Centers, a provider operating centers in 30 states.  Then he was one of the founders of Corporate Family Solutions, which developed and operated employer child care centers.  Corporate Family Solutions eventually merged with Bright Horizons, where Gleason served in an executive capacity.  Upon retiring from Bright Horizons Family Solutions, he moved over to the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children where he was involved in setting up over 300 Bright Spaces for families who are homeless.

Throughout his career, Gleason was a valuable advisor to a great many people in the field.  For example, he was a great supporter of the launch of both Exchange Magazine and the World Forum Foundation.  What was special about his support was that he truly cared about the success of those he helped.  Typically, he would quietly listen to you or your team discussing a challenge, and then say, "Have you thought about it this way?" —and proceed to offer some unique solution.  And, he was able to diffuse tense situations with his great sense of humor.

Being a collegiate basketball player, he was an avid sports fan.  More importantly he was most generous in his love for his wife, Corrine, his four children, and 10 grandchildren.  Gleason will be remembered by so many for his warmth, humor, creativity, and never-ending kindness.

A memorial service will be held for Gleason in Nashville on Saturday, September 13.  Any gifts given in David Gleason's name should be made out to the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children (www.brighthorizonsfoundation.org) in recognition of his passion for the well-being of all children — especially those living in crisis such as homelessness.

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