John Bulina a Kind and Generous Man

I was running from the Cape May Lighthouse at the southern end of New Jersey to the doorsteps of a house in Tabernacle, New Jersey.  It was a journey of more than 80 miles, and was not even halfway to our final destination at High Point, N.J., at the northern tip of the state.

The journey had not gone smoothly. We had started as three runners, but one had to drop out and this caused us a delay in our schedule.  When we arrived in Tabernacle, I knocked on the door gently because it was after midnight. I was very cognizant of the way sound travels in the wee hours. My running partner Anthony had collapsed on the front steps. I was also praying that I had arrived at the right house. If it was the wrong house, I would have to explain what I was doing at this house to a police officer.

The door opened and it was my friend John Bulina. I apologized profusely for being a couple of hours behind schedule and keeping him up. He would have none of it. He was glad to help us in our trek across the length of New Jersey. He showed us where we could sleep and apologized that he and his wife were off early in the morning but urged us to make use of their kitchen in the morning.

The next morning, we rose and John was gone, but there were muffins, bagels, coffee, and juice left for us.  We were on a journey so we could not stay long. Anthony, however, as we ran, asked me about John. He was amazed by his kindness and generosity.  I told him that I knew him through my work at the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA). I mentioned that John was a past state officer and president of the association. Anthony had met him only for a few minutes and was barely awake at the time. He just shook his head and was so impressed.

Last week when I received a call that John had passed away, I thought of that encounter. It spoke volumes and was emblematic of John’s character.  While Anthony was a bit flabbergasted at his generosity I don’t think anyone who knew John during his tenure at NJSBA would be shocked.

John’s tenure in leadership at NJSBA was marked by his kindness towards NJSBA staff and the volunteer board members he served with. I know for a fact that both Marie Bilik and Dr. Lawrence Feinsod, the NJSBA executive directors who worked with John when he was a state officer, appreciated his input.  Even if he had some negative input, it was always done with kindness and understanding. That is what made him stand out, his sincerity and kindness.

I know that with me he always talked to me not just as a staff member but as an individual. Unlike many work relationships, our conversations were more about life outside of work such as family, travel, and athletics. John was an avid skier, soccer coach, and golfer.

John was a naturally curious man as well. He loved it when people brought new ideas up. He didn’t shut them down but was eager to try them.  Years ago, when NJSBA was exploring its relationship with the U.S. Army and the idea of STEAM Tank was first floated John was huge fan and a catalyst for both initiatives.  STEAM Tank was a program that made students use Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics in a competition modeled after the TV show Shark Tank. John was sold on the idea and was constantly supporting not only the executive director, but all staff involved in the program, and his support was heartily welcomed by the staff.

His curiosity made him a great conversationalist. He had a unique background and was interested in what other people were doing.

Once you spend what seems like an eon at place like NJSBA as I have (more than 28 years) you look back and realize what seems like just a short time ago  to ago toold history to newer employees. I realized most of the current staff had never worked with John. He had not served on his board for about ten years. Yet, he left his mark at the association as the STEAM Tank Challenges exemplified.

Yet I think what most of us will remember most about John was his warmth, generosity, and kindness.  When he was president, he would come to NJSBA headquarters dressed as Santa Claus and spread cheer during the holiday season.

What I didn’t say about John opening up his house to me was that it was his idea.  He called me up when he saw my planned journey. He said if I needed a place to stay that I was more than welcome, especially since I would be running right near his home. This offer came despite the fact that we hadn’t worked together for about six years. That was John—always thinking of how he could help others. While this is my story, I am sure that many others can share a positive story about John.

It was a warmth and generosity that anyone could spot. Even my friend Anthony who was barely able to walk or stand and only saw John for less than 20 minutes could sense that this was a good man. We will all miss that most about him.

Rest in peace my friend.