Lisa Belzberg founded PENCIL in 1995 as she embarked on a project to invite executives and other leaders of industry to serve as principals for a day in New York City and realize the opportunity and responsibility businesses have to support public education.

The nonprofit organization, since the start, has played a critical role in bringing together business professionals, educators, and students to open eyes, minds and doors. As it celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, PENCIL now manages programs that work with nearly 8,000 students and more than 300 businesses a year.