At this year’s event we shared about our work with school districts across Oregon and what it means for Oregon children to be Great by Age 8!

It was an uplifting afternoon for statewide partners, elected officials, educators, and community members to celebrate shared values. Here are the standout moments that make the luncheon shine:

• Our vision for every child to be Great by Age 8 inspired us to imagine what’s possible—ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed.
• Angella Graves, principal at Cornelius Elementary, shared the real-world impact of CI’s work in her school community.
• Karina LeBlanc and Joth Ricci energized the room, challenging us to make children’s issues personal and to hold leaders accountable for making sure every child thrives.
• Children’s Institute’s work in schools took center stage, highlighting how we support kindergarten transitions during a pivotal moment in a child’s early learning journey.
• Lyn Hennion received the Alexander Award for her decades of joyful, hands-on advocacy for young children and early childhood programs.

These powerful messages from the Champions for Children Luncheon remind us why early investment matters—and how we can all take action to support Oregon’s youngest learners.