In Memory of Robert "Bob" H. Lessin
8/11/2011
By George Jackson Academy
In Memory of Robert “Bob” H. Lessin
 
New York, NY --- Along with so many who were touched by his life, we at George Jackson Academy are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend, mentor, and teacher, Robert H. Lessin. A veteran Wall Street trader and the vice chairman of Jeffries & Co., Bob died on Monday, August 8, after a long illness.
 
In his five years teaching economics and current events to the students of George Jackson Academy and partner school De La Salle Academy, Bob inspired and guided countless young people by sharing his insight, knowledge, and humility. He was a champion of George Jackson Academy’s mission, generous with his time and resources in support of the school. Bob truly lived the school’s goal, to transform young men’s lives through brotherhood and education and to open doors for boys from underserved and at-risk communities. Bob remarked to the Wall Street Journal this year that teaching was his “greatest joy” and that working with students left him “ecstatic — which I can’t always say about the business world.” In truth, his light touched our students far more than he realized.
 
There is no adequate way to mark the loss of Bob Lessin. In the time that we knew him, he made a remarkable contribution to our students and our school community.
 
We share our deepest condolences with his wife, Clara Wong and his children, Daniel, Kara, and Sam.  We are grateful for Bob Lessin’s life and memory and see his legacy in the many students whose lives he touched.
 
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About George Jackson Academy
George Jackson Academy is the only school of its kind in New York City – a nonprofit, independent middle school serving boys from lower-income and underserved communities in grades 4-8. The Academy helps boys to develop their academic talents in a community of brotherhood and integrity, sending its graduates to the country’s most selective high schools. Founded in the La Sallian tradition like partner school De La Salle Academy, George Jackson Academy will celebrate its 10th year in 2013.