Jane A. (Amsterdam) Howard

Jane (Amsterdam) Howard of Needham MA, died Friday, February 10 from complications from cancer. She was 72. Director of International Student Affairs at Mt. Ida College, Newton for over 20 years, Jane is survived by her sons Daniel and his wife Mary Howard of Catskill NY, James Howard of Dedham, sister Ellen and her husband Don Amsterdam-Walker of San Marcos CA, and by her dear friend Ford Peckham of Needham, MA. Jane held a Bachelor of Science degree from Bouve at Tufts University and a Masters degree from the University of Pennsylvania. An active civic leader, Jane's many contributions to the Town of Needham included over 30 years as a Town Meeting Member, Finance Committee Member, Community Preservation Committee, and Needham Cares. In 2006 she was awarded the Richard P. Melick Award for outstanding community service to the town of Needham. Jane's contribution to International studies extended beyond Mt. Ida College. She spent over 20 years working with the American Field Service. AFS is an exchange program that places students with families all over the world. Additionally, Jane served on the national board of NASFA; the National Association of Foreign Student Advisors. In her spare time, she spent 40 years volunteering at the Channel 2 Auction. Visiting hours will be on Thursday, February 16 from 4 – 8 PM at Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave., Needham, MA. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The Bone Marrow Transplant Center, Dr. David Avigan, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center 330 Brookline Avenue Boston, MA 02215, to the Friends of Needham Elderly – New Senior Center 83 Pickering St. Needham, MA 02492, or to a charity of your choice.

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