TE Support Ltr Meymandi

Thursday May 21, 2020

Chair, Nominating Committee
NC Awards, Public Service, Class or 2020:

I am writing this unsolicited letter on behalf of Thomas Earnhardt’s nomination to the NC Awards, Public Service, Class of 2020. I have known, idolized (and idealized) Tom for more than a decade. I have read his writings and especially elegant book, “Crossroad of the Natural World. Exploring North Carolina.” The volume is really five books. It has taught me much about the flora and fauna of our beloved North Carolina. For all he has achieved and selflessly accomplished, I can see in him a reflection of NC ‘s motto: “Esse Quam Videri”, to be rather than to seem, I see Tom as rock solid substance, action, passion and devotion all wrapped up in the cloak of pursuit of altruism and helping others. For example, over the past six months, while serving on the Dix Legacy Committee of Dix Park, he has organized systematically a great body of work that will lead us use the native NC flora on the 300 acres of land available to the park. His work has impressed our New York design contracting firm. This is an eloquent testimony for Tom’s patriotism and devotion to NC.

In endorsing him for receiving the NC Award, I would like to emphasize one fact: Tom’s service to public education through writing and television appearances. Listening to and watching him on public television is like being in a delightful and fun-filled intellectually rich classroom. Bravo, Tom!

By writing and by his TV programs, Tom has definitely elevated the narrative of US citizenry. Throughout the years, I have learned that Tom believes in the ancient Persian dictum dating back to Zarathustra/Zoroaster (600 BC)1. In his Holy book, Avesta, Zoroaster noted that “with every school door open, a prison door is closed”2, emphasizing the importance of education. It seems to me that throughout his career, Tom has applied Zarathustra’s teachings to the fullest. He has devoted his public life to the issue of advancing the cause of how to be a better person through education. His most impressive CV (attached) provides a testimonial to his reverential devotion to NC education, promotion of justice and promulgation of equality. These efforts going on for decades have transformed Tom to a TV pedagogic role model and effective teacher.

I understand your committee is choosing candidates for the NC Award. It is my privilege and high honor to endorse Mr. Tom Earnhardt, author, writer, TV personality and polymath who knows much about much, but most of all is an exemplar of public service. Tom will bring honor and intellectual élan to our ranks. Thank you

Submitted with respect

Assad Meymandi

Cc: The Honorable Susi Hamilton

1. Zarathustra or Zoroaster born 628 BCE. Died 551 BCE
2. From Avesta translated by polymath and poly-linguist, Professor Dastur Darab, Oxford university edition, page 272