At our 2026 Leadership Celebration, we honored individuals and organizations whose leadership and generosity have made a lasting impact on educational opportunity. Watch their stories and learn more about the people behind this year’s celebration. See photos from the evening here.

Ann S. Mandel Award

Inaugural Presentation

Joan Barksdale

Ann S. Mandel Award for Distinguished Leadership and Service

Ritter Family Foundation

Outstanding Community Partner Award

Bob Arnold ’72

Distinguished Alumnus Award