Bill Morris was considered a foundation stone of children's book publishing. He received an undergraduate degree in English at Rice University. After serving in the Army, he earned a Masters in American Literature at Duke University. In 1953, he joined the staff of Harper and Brothers where he remained until his death in September 2003. Mr. Morris reached the level of Vice President, Director of Library Promotions, at Harper and Brothers, now known as HarperCollins Children's Books.

Others speak of him as a catalyst for creating good books for young readers. Part of the reason for this acclaim may be that his career spanned close to 45 years, nearly all of which had been spent with one company, HarperCollins - an achievement almost unheard of in these unpredictable publishing times. Bill exhibited books at IRA for many years and is known and loved by thousands of teachers and administrators across the nation. Bill was very knowledgeable about children's books and their creators, and is the person responsible for bringing us many outstanding writers including Eve Bunting, Sharon Creech, Lee Bennett Hopkins, Katherine Paterson, Seymour Siman, Jerry Spinelli and Jane Yolen. It was through Bill's efforts that many children have been able to participate in visiting author programs, where these and other authors bring their expertise to school campuses.

Coleen Salley and Bill Morris were friends for over 40 years and could be seen together at IRA conferences, linked arm and arm attending the many conference functions. Ms. Salley credits him for his encouragement in her own career. Thus she wishes to honor her dear friend and mentor by sharing the name of the Foundation with him.