In its selection process, the National AfterSchool Association sought to honor individuals and organizations whose contributions to research and evaluation on afterschool and youth and adolescent development have resulted in stronger practices, higher quality programs and increased positive outcomes for children and youth. Honorees are profiled in the Summer 2018 issue of NAA's AfterSchool Today magazine. To view the article and all honorees that are featured in the digital edition, visit Most Influential 2018.

"Our field is at a very good point in its development when we can honor so many distinguished individuals whose work is critical and influential to afterschool practices and practitioners," said Dale A. Blyth, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus and Senior Consultant, University of Minnesota and member of the NAA Board of Directors.

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.