Norma &Tom Drysdale

Dr. Thomas T. Drysdale and his wife, Norma, have been the two people truly responsible for the initial establishment of the American Overseas Schools Archives (AOSA) and, later, the founding and incorporation of the American Overseas Schools Historical Society (AOSHS). Their shared vision and hard work influenced others to become involved and caused the Society to grow quickly.

The Society includes educators, former students and interested friends who have come together to see their vision become a reality. Many alumni associations and individual alumni have given both monetary and volunteer support to the project. Both retired and actively employed overseas educators have lent their monetary and volunteer support both in the U.S. and abroad. The support of the city of Wichita, KS has been significant. The city has provided eight-acres in the Museums on the River District for the site of the AOSHS Historical Park to house the archives, a museum, an auditorium and an administration building.

None of this would have happened in the past six years if not for the efforts of Tom and Norma. They have lived this idea 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Tom has served as president of the Society from 1996 – 2002 and Norma served as the secretary-treasurer for that same period. They leave their respective offices at this time, however, their dedication to AOSHS and its goals will be ongoing.

As President Emeritus, Tom will be primarily working on gaining funding for the building of the complex and endowments. He will also serve as director of the archives. Norma will continue to serve as the AOSHS Historian, preserving records and photos of the organizations activities. Though no longer serving on the Board of Directors, they will be invaluable resources to the Board and the organization in general.

Prepared July 2002