Haldun Tashman RA 62 and Feramarz Attar RA 62 initiate a collaboration with Arizona State University.
This spring, Robert College took an important step toward expanding professional learning opportunities for faculty through a new collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU), made possible through the initiative and support of Haldun Tashman RA 62 and Feramarz Attar RA 62.
An entrepreneur and founder of the Turkish Philanthropy Funds, Haldun Tashman first reached out to RC in 2025. Recognizing that outstanding teaching is central to student success, he sought to connect the school with leading institutions and experts who could contribute to the professional growth of educators.
Earlier this year, Tashman introduced Head of School Whitman Shepard and members of the Academic Office to Dr. Gina Wilt of Arizona State University. Dr. Wilt serves as Director of Professional Learning and Clinical Associate Professor at the Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation, one of the leading teacher education institutions in the United States.
Dr. Wilt visited the campus in May 2026 where she led informational sessions on advanced degree and certification opportunities at ASU, and facilitated focus groups examining RC’s Teacher Growth System and broader professional development practices.“Professional growth is one of the most important investments a school can make,” said Maura Kelly, Dean of Faculty. “Dr. Wilt’s visit gave us an opportunity to reflect on our current practices, learn from a respected leader in the field, and begin imagining new possibilities for collaboration that will benefit both our faculty and our students.”
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to educational excellence and represents the kind of connection that can open new pathways for collaboration, innovation, and growth across the RC community.
