For decades, Robert (Bob) Zinn and his family have been dedicated supporters of education in Houston. Their longstanding generosity to YES Prep reflects a deep belief in the power of schools to transform lives — a belief shaped by the remarkable life and legacy of Edith Zinn, Bob’s beloved wife.
A lifelong educator and passionate learner, Edith taught across a wide range of settings — from middle and high schools to adult literacy programs, day schools, and hospitals. Fluent in Spanish and conversational in several languages, she connected with students from all walks of life. Whether tutoring immigrants at the ERJCC or inspiring young children at Beth Yeshurun and The Emery/Weiner School, she made every learner feel seen, capable, and valued.
“Edith believed deeply in the potential of every child,” Bob shared. “She believed that learning should be joyful — that education was about discovery and possibility.”
That spirit lives on at YES Prep Southwest Oaks Elementary, where earlier this year, we had the honor of hosting the Zinn family for a tour of the school. During the visit, we gathered outside the campus library — a vibrant space where students grow as readers and thinkers — to dedicate a plaque in Edith’s memory that includes the inspiring quote, “Love Learning”. It was a fitting tribute to a woman who believed that every child deserved access to books, stories, and inspiration.
The Zinn family’s commitment to YES Prep spans many years and continues to shape the future of our students. Their support has helped us open new schools, strengthen academic programs, and ensure that more children in Houston can access a high-quality, college-ready education — the kind of opportunity Edith championed throughout her life.
Beyond YES Prep, Bob and Edith’s philanthropy has touched institutions across Texas. Together, they have contributed over $1 million to support biomedical research, scholarships, and professorships at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Edith’s legacy is also celebrated through the “Joy of Learning” Award at the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center — an annual recognition honoring exceptional early-childhood educators who reflect her values.
We are deeply grateful to the Zinn family for their partnership, their trust, and their belief in the power of education to create lasting change. Their story is one of legacy, love, and learning that reminds us that when we invest in students, we honor those who taught us how.