Mary Anne Haas

When Mary Anne joined ISS in 1996, she had already spent decades working overseas and supporting international education. Her late husband Stanley Haas was a teacher and headmaster. His work brought Mary Anne into this field, but her contributions were of her own design.

Born in Seattle, Washington in 1926, as the oldest of five (and the only girl), Mary Anne credited her parents with teaching her life lessons that guided her adult experiences and interactions, including gratitude, pride in her heritage, and the importance of education and charity. Charity, as Mary Anne was quick to explain, is not limited to providing funds but rather “giving help in every way” to those less fortunate. Mary Anne had her own unique view of the world, one that was optimistic and informed. She was always learning, experiencing, and adding dimension to her already varied and interesting life.

During World War II, Mary Anne left Seattle for New York, before moving to San Francisco in 1945. It was in California that Mary Anne met Stanley Haas. They married in 1949 and during their early married life, Stanley and Mary Anne traveled as much as possible, immersing themselves in other cultures. These trips would prove to be the foundation upon which they built a long career in international education.

In 1966, they made the daring decision that would change the direction of their lives: Stanley accepted the position of Headmaster at the American Overseas School of Rome. The family spent eight happy years in Rome, during which time Mary Anne was an active force in the school community, serving as President of the American Women’s Club.

In 1974 Stanley became Superintendent of the American Community School, and the family moved to Athens. Mary Anne explained, “We were successful as a family because we worked as a team.” In Greece, Mary Anne again became involved with numerous organizations, serving as President of the American Women’s Club, and volunteering at the U.S. Embassy.

In 1978, Stanley became Executive Director of the Near East South Asia Council of Overseas Schools (NESA). Mary Anne and Stanley were a strong team and as time went on, her involvement with the organization increased. After her husband’s death, Mary Anne assumed Stanley’s position as Executive Director. The following year she joined ISS and was the Executive Assistant to three ISS Presidents. She traveled to conferences, representing ISS by sponsoring and introducing keynote speakers. She served on the Executive Board of the Association for the Advancement of International Education, and as Special Advisor for Strategic Partnerships for the National Art Education Association.

Her first Women’s Symposium was held in 2002. These Symposiums have provided opportunities for growth and development for women in international education and leadership roles. Her support of women in leadership, both in education and other fields, is part of her legacy. Mary Anne truly appreciated how important it is for women to support other women professionally, recognizing the unique opportunities that emerge when talented leaders converge.

Mary Anne had an immense amount of wisdom and life experience, but she never stopped learning. Indeed, she created opportunities and took advantage of the possibilities presented, and the result was a life that was filled with adventure, laughter and passion for others. She explained, “What you think may be, isn’t. What you think is good enough, needs more work. Humility is as integral to success as anything else; have humility and success and happiness will follow. Stay true to yourself and you will be true to others.” Mary Anne was truly an inspiration and a valued friend to the international community.

Mary Anne Haas was a mentor, sponsor, and inspiration to many. Mary Anne’s passionate contributions strengthened our community and our world.