Before I start rolling out TAF's new formula for public education, I want to update all of you on the life-changing moment I had last month.

If you saw my post on Facebook last week, you know that on January 6, 2010, I had a pulmonary embolism (blood clots in my lungs) that caused me to pass out and tumble headfirst down eight cement stairs. After a trip to the emergency room and a day in ICU, I had lots of time to think about the things I am thankful for: family, friends, community, health insurance, and simply being alive.

I also had time to marvel at the equipment and tests that dominated my life (and still do to some extent). From the diagnostic machines to the medications that regulated my blood, I experienced an intensely personal connection to the value of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

That's right. You know me. As much as my friends and family wanted me to avoid work, it didn't take me long to connect my experience to the challenges we face every day at TAF.

My medical care was made possible by brilliant scientists and engineers who chose to partner with the medical community for the greater good. Over the next 20-30 years, as I and my fellow baby boomers get to an age when we need more medical assistance, we must educate and train a new generation of brilliant scientists and engineers to create the next wave of innovation.

We're talking about today's 6th graders. It will take them at least 20 years to graduate college and launch careers in research, computer science or engineering. But given the current state of public education across the nation - and here in Washington State, in particular - I have serious doubts about our ability to prepare them for that next wave of innovation unless we act quickly.

It all starts with access. Access to technology, training, opportunity and a better public education for underserved populations.

That's why I started TAF over 13 years ago.

From the very beginning, our fundamental goal was to increase access to technology for students of color. Back then, we were just concerned about the Digital Divide. The gap between the "haves" and "have nots" was clear and growing. We provided the computers, internet access and skills training that kids in underserved communities didn't otherwise receive.

We quickly realized that more was needed to create a culture of success for these students. Greater Access became the first pillar to our formula for student success.

Greater Access + Higher Expectations
+ More Investment
= Unlimited Student Success

Today is my first full day back in the office after my fall last month and there is still so much work to be done.

The Digital Divide may be shrinking, but it still exists. Schools that use their budgets to install metal detectors don't have computer labs or smart boards. Teachers who spend their days tending to discipline problems don't have the time and energy to incorporate any technology into their classrooms. Attempts to promote a STEM-focused public education don't necessarily promote educational equality for students of color.

I am more determined than ever to bring about lasting change to our public education system.

Here's what you can do to help today:

• Join us on March 10th for the 9th Annual Leadership Breakfast
• Share this e-mail with 5 friends
• Send us your stories about how STEM impacts your life, your career, your kids, or your health
• Plug yourself into TAF's formula for student success