John (Dutch) Summers epitomizes the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community that built and sustains Greater Rochester. As a young man, Dutch was the third employee in a small tool and die business started by his father. That company over the years grew to include more than 50 businesses in 13 states and 9 countries. Some, having reached such personal and financial success, might opt to relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor -not Dutch Summers!

He continues to be actively involved in the business, while sharing his financial success, considerable business knowledge, and wide ranging interests with a variety of community and philanthropic projects. Much of the motivation for his community engagement can be summed up by the simple quote - attributed to Michelangelo - which is prominently displayed on his desk. "I am still learning," it reads- a philosophy that Dutch applies to his daily life and community activities. Over the past few years, much of his philanthropy has been focused on education. His interest in improving the educational outcomes of our schools, colleges and universities remains a priority. When talking about our community young people, he says, "I am not only interested in having students graduate, I want to have them become good citizens."

Recipients of his philanthropy must be willing to measure their results, show their effectiveness, be willing to implement best operational practices and demonstrate accountability. He wants to have an impact!