“My greatest satisfaction in life has been to see tens of millions of kids benefit from our work [and] to see the trust we have been given by parents and teachers . . . I look to the day when we can help billions of kids around the world. It’s a lofty peak, and we won’t get there overnight, but with all of us pushing and keeping that mountaintop in sight, we will wake up one day looking out at a world that we have changed for the better. That is my wish and why we are here.”
—Doug Dohring
IN MEMORIAM
“Doug was one of my heroes. His vision to educate the world made it an honor to be an Age of Learning employee. He was the best kind of leader, someone who demanded excellence of himself and everyone around him. Doug encouraged us to stretch beyond what we thought was possible, and because he believed in us, we achieved it! I will miss his warm smile, his unwavering optimism, and his desire to help all children, everywhere, become lifelong learners.”
“I had the pleasure of working with Doug for five years and it was truly a wonderful experience. Whenever I saw him in the office, he would greet me with a warm hello and ask how my day was going. He cared about his employees and their well-being at work and in their personal lives. Working with him to prepare for the Anniversary event was fun and exciting, especially on the day of the event. He will be remembered for his contributions to children’s education worldwide.”
“Doug Dohring will be sorely missed. His memory and impact will always be felt at Age of Learning. I have fond memories of bumping into him in the elevator. He always greeted you with a bright smile and asked how you were doing. He will continue to inspire me.”
“Doug taught me the art of curiosity—how to find the right questions to ask and then to ask more. It didn’t matter if the task seemed inconsequential; with Doug, you felt the weight of our mission in even the simplest of activities. He had this innate ability to make you understand the bigger picture—that we are here to make a substantial impact and that every small action is a stepping stone toward that larger goal. . . . Doug knew that with the right resources and support, millions of children would attain proficiency in math and reading. . . . he didn’t just believe it; he lived that belief every day. . .”
“During my job interview with Doug, he talked about the mission to educate all children. Year after year, I saw very clear examples that [showed] he meant it. At our Anniversary events, Doug [would] choke up [when] talking about the . . . impact of our products on the kids who need [them] most. This mission was deep in his heart and at his very core. Anyone who worked closely with him knew that.”
“Having had the honor [of working] with Doug Dohring for more than two decades, I have many amazing memories. But what is most emblematic was his steadfast dedication to Age of Learning’s mission to educate all children. In 2008, before our launch of ABCmouse in 2010, Doug learned from our first Academic Advisor, Kimberly Oliver Burnham, that numerous schoolteachers routinely pay for classroom supplies with their own money. He immediately decided that ABCmouse would be [offered] free of charge in classrooms . . . [and] when COVID-19 hit the U.S. in March 2020, Doug quickly decided to cut the home-use price in half to make ABCmouse more readily available for families . . . Doug’s unwavering passion and commitment to fostering a love of learning and improving children’s education outcomes was, and remains, our guiding light.”
“Despite Doug’s busy schedule and mission to transform global education, he dedicated space in his mind and time in his day to consider details large and small. He showed kindness and thoughtfulness and remembered details of stories you shared. He was a man with [a] profound [caring] for others.”
“In June of 2018, I traveled to Glendale for my final interview for a position in Age of Learning’s Curriculum department. [It] happened to be my birthday, but I didn’t tell anyone at the company. I did, however, let that news slip the night before while chatting with the driver who picked me up from the airport . . . The next day, while meeting with a panel of senior staff, I saw people walking to a conference room with a cake and candles. As it turned out, that same driver had taken Doug to the airport that morning. He told Doug that he had picked up someone who was interviewing on her birthday. Doug called HR while in the car . . . I remember instantly thinking two things: (1) I could not believe a CEO would provide a birthday cake for a job candidate, and (2) I better get this job or this would be a very awkward rest of the day! . . . I did get the job, and . . . [am] still very much dedicated to Age of Learning.”
“I began my journey at Age of Learning nearly 12 years ago and had the privilege [of working] closely with Doug from the very beginning. One of the most valuable lessons was Doug’s unwavering commitment to raising the bar [and] constantly pushing for greater achievements. It felt like witnessing magic as he transformed what many consider [impossible] into a reality.”
“It is hard to accept Doug’s departure. From the bottom of my heart, I feel we have lost one of the world’s best human beings.”
“Age of Learning was my first client when I opened my government affairs firm. Doug did not have to give me a shot, but he did. What I will miss most is his genuine care for others. . . . As a parent, ABCmouse was a godsend during COVID. I told him that my daughter loved ABCmouse, and not a week later, a package addressed to my kids arrived. Doug sent them backpacks full of ABCmouse books and goodies. . . . Our daughter insisted on taking the books to school for her class, and she told me every time one of the kids chose a book that ‘Mr. Doug’ sent.”
“There are no words to describe the pain I felt, hearing of Doug’s passing. It has been an honor knowing Doug and the contributions he made to society. He was a blessing to us all and the world is a better place for having experienced his love and passion for education and life.”
“I’ll always remember when I started working at Age of Learning and I bumped into Doug Dohring in a hallway. We chatted a bit and I was shocked to discover that he knew my name and position! He was so welcoming and made me feel valued . . . Working at Age of Learning is an honor and privilege and that’s because of Doug. His dedication to the company and passion for its mission will continue to inspire me every day.”
“Doug Dohring wasn’t just ‘anyone.’ He was like a father figure to many, and since my arrival at Age of Learning in 2017, he felt like a family member I’d known my entire life. . . . Doug was hands-on. It was great to feel his familiarity and involvement. At the first Anniversary event I attended, I saw Doug’s passion for what we do. His drive to bring learning to schools, homes, and those disenfranchised or unable to seek an accessible education still burns in my heart. I know we will work to make his dream persist and his work continue.”
“I remember the first time I met Doug Dohring. It was one of my first days at the office. I was on the elevator on the way home when he greeted me and asked, ‘Where do you work?’ I said, ‘Age of Learning,’ after which he welcomed me and said he was the CEO. . . . Doug encouraged everyone and showed appreciation for the work we do. His passion and energy were contagious, and his example will . . . be a lasting and positive legacy.”
“Doug Dohring was the epitome of a well-respected and loved leader. . . . I never saw Doug without a smile on his face and a warm greeting. He took the time to [get to] know us all by name and made us feel like family. On my first day, I bumped into Doug in the elevator. I was so nervous . . . but my nerves were immediately comforted as Doug welcomed me with his kind words. Doug made Age of Learning feel like home.”
“I will never forget a particular conversation I had with Doug Dohring early in my career at Age of Learning. The fact that he made time . . . to have an in-depth discussion was proof of how passionate Doug was about his vision and how excited he was to share it. . . . Doug spoke with certitude and conviction about our ability to fix some of society’s greatest challenges and, through education, make a positive impact on the world. . . . I walked away feeling invigorated and proud to be even a small part of that mission.”
“I remember my very early days at Age of Learning, sitting at my desk . . . near where Doug would walk to the elevator, waving goodnight to everyone. I knew him as the Founder of this unbelievable movement and [I] felt fortunate to be part of it. . . . The first meaningful conversation we had was at a parent/child work event. My daughter and I were extremely grateful for the wisdom, insight, and quality time Doug shared with us.”
“I have worked for Age of Learning for [more than] two years, all remotely. . . . Yet Doug learned who I was and appreciated my work. What made Doug so special as a person and so amazing as our leader was that he genuinely cared for all the people that work at the company.”
“I’m honored to have met Doug Dohring and [to have] seen him in action. He was such a thoughtful leader and a kind and genuine human. I know we will keep his mission going. The foundation he built is so strong and this company is like a family. I’m thankful . . . to be part of it.”
“Age of Learning has been a wonderful client of ours for years, and we take pride in seeing many hours of our animation shining throughout ABCmouse. It has been hugely gratifying to be part of this important endeavor. We believe deeply in Doug Dohring’s mission for Age of Learning.”
“On behalf of the Age of Learning Foundation, our Board of Directors, advisory group, team, and friends, we [wish to express our gratitude] for the opportunity Doug Dohring and the Age of Learning team created for us to be part of this remarkable journey. Doug was an inspiring leader. I have learned more from him than I have from many other leaders combined. Doug’s passion for the world’s children and his dedication to ensure that they have opportunity to master what they learn is unparalleled. Doug made hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of the world’s very best digital learning solutions available to education systems in low- and lower-middle-income countries at no cost. . . . His words made me realize that he recognized all the world’s children as individuals.”
“Doug Dohring’s passion and enthusiasm have left an indelible and inspirational mark on all of us.”
“Doug Dohring was an incredible person and [a] visionary.”
“I am deeply saddened by Doug Dohring’s departure. I had grown to respect him as I understood his vision and core beliefs behind his efforts.”
“Doug Dohring’s personal and professional qualities were second to none. He was a great listener, always encouraging people to give their opinions and ideas. He sought perfection even when it would delay implementation and increase costs. Doug created Age of Learning to make a better world through education. Doug will be sorely missed, but what he created will endure for many years to come.”
“I feel very honored to be part of the team and company that Doug Dohring built, and I am excited to further the work that he started.”
“Doug was [classy, smart], and big-hearted . . . I’ve admired him and his unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. It’s been an honor to have him as a friend and to work with him all these years. I will miss him. Knowing that tens of millions of kids have benefitted from Doug’s work is comforting.”
“Doug truly was a great man and a great friend. All our lives are forever changed by his time with us. I feel like the greatest honor we can give him is carrying his vision forward.”
“I would like to acknowledge that Doug was one of the most excellent [leaders] I have had the pleasure to be associated with. He was a true giant among men. He cared about so many people on a truly profound level. He was very easy to communicate with and generous in the extreme.”
“I’m deeply sad about the passing of Doug. . . . I recall Doug’s enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference [for] children through Age of Learning, which inspired me greatly. I remain committed to advancing his vision for the Foundation.”
“I feel honored to have had the chance to meet with Doug virtually and was very much looking forward to an in-person visit. May his soul rest in beautiful peace. We will treasure the memories shared and do our modest parts to keep his vision alive.”
“The news of Doug’s passing is as shocking as it is tragic . . . because of the huge void he has left behind. Doug was passionate about using education to fight poverty. I remember his refrain whenever we talked, ‘Do not wait for perfect conditions. Just start wherever minimal conditions exist.’ How wise. If we wait for conditions to be perfect, we will never accomplish anything. Any challenge, no matter how complex, can always be tackled one step at a time. . . . We who you leave behind will continue the fight you started.”
“Such sad news! . . . [We] will definitely make him proud and make sure that we effectuate his vision and his honor.”
“I am saddened to hear this tragic news. . . . We will do our utmost to uphold his vision and passion through our work together.”
“I had the opportunity to . . . talk to him on the three occasions I was in Los Angeles . . . It hurts me that we have not been able to organize his visit to Costa Rica, to show him his legacy, and what we have achieved.”
“It was a true privilege to have [a] meeting [with] Doug . . . last November and listen [to his] words [about] the vision that moved him to promote the creation of Age of Learning Foundation. My home country, Costa Rica, and the entire world will always be grateful to this extraordinary man that decided to transform the lives of thousands of children and create a brighter future [for] them. I’m so sorry he was not able to come and see firsthand some of the impact Age of Learning is making in Costa Rica.”
“I am so sorry and saddened to learn this.”
“[This] is heartbreaking news. I had the good fortune to be on [just] a couple calls with him but hearing his passion for the Foundation was truly inspiring. I could tell he genuinely cared deeply for its purpose.”
“So sorry to hear of this very sad loss!”
“When I had the privilege of meeting Doug, I was struck by his humility, his willingness to listen and learn, and the encouragement he gave us as members of the Advisory Board. . . . I’m confident that his legacy will live on, both [at] Age of Learning . . . as well as through the work of the Foundation.”
“Doug was truly a visionary. I am sure he left feeling good that he had built such a wonderful team to fulfill his vision.”
“I feel honored to have had the chance to meet with Doug virtually and was very much looking forward to an in-person visit. May his soul rest in beautiful peace. We will treasure the memories shared and do our modest parts to keep his vision alive.”
“Something I am sure about . . . is that service shows . . . what a good soul is. From what I have seen, he was a great and super soul, worrying about others and giving low-income children opportunities. Now is time for him to receive the prize.”
“I am deeply saddened to receive the news about the passing of Doug Dohring, the Board Chair and Champion at the Age of Learning Foundation. . . . It is evident that Doug’s vision and dedication were instrumental in creating the Foundation and its mission to provide a quality education to children worldwide. His passion and tireless efforts have made a lasting impact, and his loss will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working with him.”
“This is a great loss, not just to Age of Learning but to the ecosystem. [Doug] was a passionate visionary and truly left a positive mark on those he met and education.”
“[This] news has knocked me sideways. My deepest condolences to Doug’s family, friends, and colleagues. . . . You can count on me to continue to . . . do all I can to ensure his vision prospers.”
“My solidarity hug from a distance to everyone. . . . I am sure that Doug’s legacy will prevail, and all of us who have received support over the years from the Age of Learning Foundation value and appreciate the work that he developed in his lifetime.”
“We are deeply saddened by this loss, as Doug’s vision and passion were evident in every facet of the Age of Learning Foundation. His dedication to uplifting and educating children globally has made a profound impact . . . We will remember Doug not only for his immense contributions to education but also for the warm-hearted and generous individual he was. It’s comforting to know that he was pleased with our joint efforts, and we are committed to ensuring that his legacy continues to thrive.”
“We were deeply saddened to learn of Doug Dohring’s passing. His vision and passion for the Age of Learning Foundation have left an indelible mark on global education. This loss is profound . . . ”
“From what I have seen, Doug is leaving a beautiful legacy in the world. May the impact of his dedication and passion continue to ripple through many more generations.”
“I believe that when we [lose] someone close to us, they continue to live on through us and give us unbelievable strength. Doug will be [there].”
“We are so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. . . . Doug has made a massive contribution to education [in] this world of ours—one that will last forever. Whilst we [did] not know him personally, we feel his passion for educating young children all around the world, especially here in South Africa.”
“From what I have seen, Doug is leaving a beautiful legacy in the world. May the impact of his dedication and passion continue to ripple through many more generations.”
“Last November, the Age of Learning Foundation team had the opportunity to join the Anniversary event. During the event, Doug’s speech was both inspiring and thought-provoking. This speech is always in my mind as I work with our partners in Costa Rica, Zimbabwe, and now Sri Lanka.”
“I had the great pleasure of meeting Doug at the 2022 Age of Learning Anniversary Celebration. With great kindness, he always showed his great humor and enormous interest and concern for the many challenges that children face throughout the world. He will be greatly missed. The world has lost a much-needed agent of change.”
“I am grateful to have crossed paths with such an incredible human being and to have heard him passionately and boldly share his vision for the Foundation and children around the world. Despite having [more than] 300 people [in attendance] at the Anniversary, he still made time to firmly shake my hand and ask about our work in Zimbabwe. I pray . . . that his work, mission, [and] legacy continues to live through us.”
“We have been very fortunate to partner with the Age of Learning Foundation and can confidently say that Mr. Dohring’s vision has manifested and is making a difference in Namibia.”
“I’m so very sorry to hear about Doug. I know his vision and passion will live on through the Foundation’s work. It was a pleasure to meet him and to contribute, in a small way, to [his] work.”
“While I never had the privilege of meeting Doug personally, his visionary work through the Foundation has shown me what a noble and kind-hearted individual he was. I am deeply moved by his vision’s positive impact in my country, Costa Rica, where [nearly] 300,000 children now benefit from his solutions, with more countries to come. Being a part of Doug’s . . . extended team of partners through the Foundation fills me with pride. His legacy will continue to shine brightly through all those he inspired and helped.”
“I was very saddened to hear about Doug’s passing. What an incredible human being with such deep vision.”
“This is such sad news. Everyone who interacted with him has such a great and deep understanding of his passion. . . . The inspiration he had is seen in the teams that he built. It can be seen in the way they work and how they feel about the work they do. When I joined the Foundation, it was clear that this was built on passion and by such a great visionary. So honored to be part of the team that continues to push forward to make sure that his vision comes to full fruition!”
“I am so sorry to hear this. I never met Doug but was always in awe of what he built and his vision for the future.”
“This is incredibly sad news! . . . While the heart that felt so much compassion for the underprivileged kids may have stopped beating, the onus is on us to keep his vision to change the world alive. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have shared in his mission in these few short months.”
“This is very sad. [I’m] honored to be part of [Doug’s] mission and [know] that we have a huge responsibility in our hands.”
“My deepest condolences for this tremendous loss. What an incredible human. . . . may his mission live on.”
“Costa Rica . . . has been graced by a visionary soul whose impact transcends borders and generations. In recent times, this small Central American nation received the profound gift of Doug’s unwavering vision—a dream of uplifting the education of underprivileged children worldwide through the gift of personalized learning. Doug was not merely a man; he was a fervent, relentless dreamer whose legacy has woven a tapestry of bright eyes, jubilant faces, and successful educational journeys for thousands of young students in Costa Rica. Through his tireless efforts, these young minds now joyfully acquire math and English language skills—tools that will undoubtedly shape their futures and, in turn, the future of their nation.”
“Thank you, Doug! Because of your vision and kind heart, more than 200,000 students in my country, Costa Rica, are experiencing a very exciting learning approach through technology. Building students’ confidence will help them have better resilience in the face of difficult moments. Your impact will last for [many] generations in my country.”
“[Dearest Doug], your leadership leaves an enduring mark on Age of Learning and the world of education, playing a pivotal role in shaping a better future and aiding me in discovering my own purpose and North Star. Your steadfastness, resilience, and dedication to enriching the lives of children everywhere have consistently served as a deep well of inspiration.”
“Doug Dohring and the fantastic team he assembled were a huge part of why I became [an Academic Advisory Board member] at Age of Learning. . . . Doug created . . . a company where learning drives everything. Whether in a chat in the corridor, an emailed request for research-driven outcomes, or a presentation on the stage at the fall extravaganzas, Doug’s commitment to making the world a better place [by] helping children learn shone through everything, along with his enthusiasm. He liked . . . all the details and the big picture. He was truly a rarity . . .”
“The most important thing that inspired me to join Age of Learning as the person leading Efficacy Research . . . was Doug’s approach to research study findings. Doug wasn’t afraid of less-than-spectacular results. Rather, these represented opportunities for us to enhance and refine what we offer to make sure that learning happens for the children we serve. My team and I will always be grateful to have had Doug as a passionate advocate for learning, and we will continue to conduct the rigorous research . . . we know he would have wanted [us to do] to help shape our programs to better serve children.”
“I remember Doug’s smile—always encouraging everybody around him to be the best we could be, while working hard and having fun. I remember Doug’s words—always to the point, wise, and compassionate. I remember Doug’s generosity—a generosity that had no limits, no concerns, no barriers. I have been deeply touched by Doug’s generosity and compassion, not only towards me but towards the people I worked with, and especially the kids that use our products. Doug’s dreams were endless, and the deepest of those dreams were about helping children to learn as much as they could and to be as great as they could. I don’t think I have ever met a more generous and compassionate person, and for that I am grateful . . .”
“My sincerest condolences to the Age of Learning family. Doug was always so kind and patient and I am so sorry for this profound loss. It was because of Doug that I got cast as the voice of 1•2•3 Mouse, and I always thought that was such a generous risk for him to take since I had only submitted scratch for an animatic! Doug heard something he believed could work and trusted me to breathe life into one of his beloved characters, and for this, I am forever grateful.”
“I learned so many things from Doug in our decade of working together, but I think the most important lesson was this: If you want to make change happen, you need to find maximum leverage. Doug went after early childhood education because he knew that if he could improve it, he’d improve kids’ lives while they were young, but also their educations as they got older, and then their careers in adulthood, and eventually all the problems that they would go on to solve. . . . Doug inspired us to change the world, and he gave us the leverage to do it. Now it’s on us to follow through.”
“One of my fondest memories of Doug was during the Anniversary event last year. The event started at 10:00 a.m. I showed up early [because] I was still relatively new to the company and was terrified of showing up late . . . I remember seeing Doug around 9:45 a.m. He was full of energy and greeted everyone who walked past him. I had only spoken to Doug once before that, which was on my first day with the company. [We] talked law, sports, and golf for nearly 40 minutes. But on the day of the event, I watched him speak to employees, advisors, contractors, and even hotel/event staff. His calm, relaxed demeanor made everyone comfortable . . . That’s a skill . . . not everyone has. Doug, I will miss you! You can trust that I will put my best foot forward every single day, and I will do everything in my power to help take the company to new heights!”
“First of all, I want to say that Doug’s dedication and passion to the mission of the company was extraordinary, and he will be truly missed. When I first started eight years ago as a ‘lowly’ producer, he knew my name, said hello, and shook my hand. That will forever be a core memory because I thought it was so special for a CEO to do. That extra attention was not lost on me, and it made me . . . feel how much he cared about the company.”
“When I think of Doug, my heart swells with warmth and gratitude, for he embodied the very essence of home. Doug wasn’t just a CEO; he was a father-like figure—a leader in every sense of the word. His presence in my life [was] a beacon of strength, passion, thoughtfulness, and unwavering determination. From the very first moment we crossed paths, I couldn’t help but look up to Doug. He exuded qualities that I wholeheartedly admire and aspire to emulate. Each interaction with him was like a warm embrace of encouragement, always accompanied by that infectious smile that could brighten even the darkest of days.”
“I was one of Doug’s students, long before I was an employee here and long before Age of Learning . . . existed. His mission touched so many children, and I am happy to have been one of them. . . . I taught myself to code on his products. I found a love of technology there. And I want to bring that joy Doug [that] taught me to so many more kids.”
“Doug was extraordinary. His incredible entrepreneurial passion to effect positive change and [make an] impact . . . was unrivaled. He was also an extraordinary partner who cared deeply about enabling everyone to experience success. . . . His smile, energy, and enthusiasm were contagious, but at the top of the list of what we most admired about Doug was his love and passion for his family. . . . Doug was unique and incredible, and he lived life reflecting his love, passion, and desire to create [a] deep and lasting positive impact on the world. We are all so much better for having known and learned from [him]. He will be sorely missed . . .”
“ . . . I’ve been fortunate to voice Do-Re-Mi Mouse. I am forever grateful to Doug and will never forget his exemplary leadership, wisdom, warmth, kindness, humor, and generosity. . . . I’ve been . . . remembering the time he so generously sent me home after a recording session with as many ABCmouse backpacks as I could carry, filled with access cards for friends and family. These gifts brought so much joy and meant so
much to me and [my] loved ones who received them. But it was his palpable excitement, pride, joy, and warmth in giving them to me that meant the most. I think of that moment so often.”
“To me, Doug truly embodied Gandhi’s famous adage, ‘Be the change you wish to see in the world.’ His courage, persistence, compassion, and undeterred drive stand as a lasting testament to the power of positive intent—that in service of others, there is nothing we cannot accomplish and achieve together.”
“Doug really helped give me my identity. I moved . . . to Los Angeles in 2003 [to pursue] my voiceover career. . . . I met a friend at my new agency who was starting to work with Doug on ABCmouse. . . . The website had not launched yet, and Doug was searching for that ‘perfect mouse voice.’ . . . After I was cast as the voice of ABC, Doug was so proud to let me know that he scoured the ends of the Earth, looking for a voice like mine . . . He was very proud to tell me this. He truly gave me the best gift I could ever ask for—[the] opportunity to bring . . . an amazing character to life, and not only one [with] an amazing personality, but one that educates millions of children all around the world. What an honor. . . . I just can’t thank Doug enough for what he has done for me, my career, and my family. He was a gentle, beautiful soul, and will be [dearly] missed. . . . Doug, my little mouse tail will wag back and forth for the rest of my life [whenever] I think of you. Let’s G-O go, Doug! Let’s G-O go!”
“It’s . . . difficult to believe that Doug has left us. I [can] still vividly remember our first meeting with Doug in Shenzhen. We all admired his . . . passion and [his] dedication to bringing the best education to as many kids as possible. Our partnership was an unforgettable memory for my colleagues and me at Tencent. I truly believe that all of us will continue to realize his dream and help kids . . . learn everywhere around the world.”
“Doug was an inspiration and his mission in life resonates deeply with me. In my short time at the company, I found Doug to be warm and kind as we passed each other in the office. During meetings, I witnessed how much he cared about the work we do—and that encouraged me to take my work to the next level. I am honored to take up the baton from Doug in this noble pursuit: cultivating a lifelong love of learning for the next generation. Thank you, Doug!”
