In Tribute to a Legend: Mary Anne Haas
With heavy hearts, we share that Mary Anne Haas passed away this past Saturday, March 8 — notably, on International Women’s Day and just over one week shy of her 99th birthday.
While ISS marks this loss with great sadness, we also celebrate Mary Anne’s legacy. She was an invaluable mentor and sponsor of international school leaders, with specific emphasis on raising up the women leaders of today and tomorrow. So many people throughout the international education community will forever hold fond memories of Mary Anne: her rainbow hair, colorful clothes, refreshing directness, wry sense of humor, earnest interest in the world, and most of all, her genuine care for others.
We at ISS were very fortunate to have her as a colleague and friend. As we carry on Mary Anne’s legacy, may we bring her bright spirit, untiring curiosity, and dedication to meaningful service into all we do.
With care,
International Schools Services
The ISS Mary Anne Haas Women’s Symposium
A Life Fully Lived
Mary Anne Haas retired from ISS at the age of ninety, cementing a remarkable legacy in international education. Whether as founder of the ISS Mary Anne Haas Women’s Symposium, as Executive Director of the Near East South Asia Council of Overseas Schools (NESA), or in any of the many other formal and informal roles she took on throughout her life, Mary Anne exemplified what it means to make a world of difference.
An Ongoing Impact
Since 2002, the annual ISS Mary Anne Haas Women’s Symposium has helped advance women leaders in international schools. We are honored to continue Mary Anne’s work of passionately supporting leaders of this generation, and the ones to come.
Mary Anne Haas will be greatly missed. To those who knew her personally, and to all impacted by her career’s vast tapestry of advocacy, care, and connection — may we celebrate her life and carry on her vibrant legacy!
