In selecting the honorees, the National AfterSchool Association sought to highlight emerging young leaders who are active in the afterschool community—with a proven passion for professional development, influence beyond their program in an effort to elevate the field, and persistence in their work to grow as a leader.

We're pleased to present this year's list of outstanding performers. We hope you share in the excitement about these leaders and how their contributions are shaping the next generation of the afterschool field.

"This group of leaders represents the creativity, dedication and commitment of the best of our next generation of the afterschool profession," said Gina Warner, President and CEO of NAA. "We are honored to recognize them because we know the important role strong leadership plays in promoting positive outcomes for the children and youth in our programs." To view the digital version of AfterSchool Today, click here.

An estimated 10.2 million children participate in afterschool programs each year and the industry employs an estimated 850,000. The National AfterSchool Association is the membership association for professionals who work with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings, to provide a wide variety of extended learning opportunities and care during out-of-school hours.