Community leader lifted entire city

As I was coming up through the ranks of community leaders in Columbus, I was mentored by many established leaders from throughout the city. Dedicated and committed community servants such as Dan Charles, John Coats Sr., Debra Diggs, James Johnson, Peggy McElroy, Peggy Murphy, Lois Neff, Dave Paul, Dan Province, Katie Radford, Carol Stewart, Robert Patterson, Lisa Boggs and many others helped me to come to understand that each of us has a duty to the least of those among us.

As I had the privilege to serve with them on boards, committees, councils, commissions, task forces, and working groups, I observed common characteristics. They all loved their neighborhoods and were passionate about serving and advocating on behalf of their neighbors. Marie MorelandShort was one of these incredible servant leaders.

She worked tirelessly on behalf of her community and brought a thoughtful, graceful, and generous energy to everything she did. She was excited about her community service every time we spoke. Like all of these leaders, Moreland-Short served beyond her own neighborhood and participated in citywide initiatives, helping to make Columbus a better city.

Columbus is poorer for her passing, just as it is every time a member of this cadre of community leaders, the true titans of Columbus, passes. We owe them a great deal. May she rest in peace. I look forward to seeing her on the other side. President Columbus Board of Education