My beloved Tandem community,
In Oge Mora’s picture book Thank You, Omu!, a woman’s generosity draws her whole neighborhood to her door. She shares her delicious stew until there’s nothing left in her pot—but her neighbors return, each bringing something to share, and together they create a feast far richer than what any one person could offer alone. That’s what Tandem has been for me: a community built on generosity, where we all bring what we have and create something beautiful together.
When I joined this organization, you welcomed me with open arms. You taught me the work, challenged me to grow, and trusted me to lead during some of our most uncertain times. Together, we navigated the upheaval of a global pandemic, and we did it in a way that stayed true to who we are—fiercely committed to supporting children, families, and educators. I’m deeply proud of how Tandem showed up for our community during those years, and of everything we’ve built together since.
Now, as I pass the baton to Dulce Torres-Petty, I’m filled with gratitude and confidence. Leaving is bittersweet—I will miss you all and hope our paths continue to cross—but the future is dulce: sweet. Dulce brings extraordinary insight, heart, and vision to this role, and I know Tandem’s future is bright in her hands. Transitions are healthy for people and organizations as they create space for new ideas, fresh energy, and continued growth. I’m excited to watch what comes next for Tandem, and I’ll be cheering loudly every step of the way.
Thank you for giving me a home in this work. Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your friendship. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve alongside you.
Con cariño y respeto,
Savitha Moorthy
P.S. – See Board Chair Samina Diamond’s letter announcing our new Executive Director, Dulce Torres-Petty

Savitha Moorthy
Savitha was brought up to leave the world a little bit better than she found it. For her, this has meant dedicating her life to improving learning opportunities, experiences, and outcomes for young children, especially those growing up in under-served communities. Savitha holds a PhD in Education from Stanford University and a Masters in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, in India. Savitha served as Tandem’s Executive Director for over six years.
