The National AfterSchool Association (NAA), the lead organization for the advancement of the afterschool professional, has selected its 2018 Next Generation of Afterschool honorees.

In selecting NAA's Next Generation of Afterschool 2018, proudly sponsored by S&S Worldwide, the National AfterSchool Association sought to highlight emerging young leaders who are afterschool champions and believers in the power of afterschool. Young leaders who are active in the afterschool community and who are starting to design programs, professional development and other contributions that will influence their programs and organizations—with the potential to provide broad and long-term impact. From a field of 100, a committee appointed by NAA selected those being honored.

We're pleased to present this year's list of next generation performers. We hope you share in the excitement about these leaders and how their contributions are shaping the next generation of the afterschool field. To view the digital version of AfterSchool Today, click here.

"The National AfterSchool Association believes that strong leadership in afterschool programs have a direct impact on child and youth development," said Gina Warner, President and CEO of NAA. "We count on these emerging leaders to help shape the next generation of the afterschool field."

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.