HONOR A CHAMPION

Turn your support for students into a special moment for someone in your life!

Who is a champion in your life?

We all know someone who has touched our lives, gone above and beyond to lift others up, and makes our community stronger. We recognize some of these outstanding people each year at our annual Champs Celebration. Being recognized as a CIS Champ is inspiring for the honoree, the person who nominated them, and all who learn about these special members in our community.

We think there should be more of these uplifting moments.

Our Honor A Champion lets you turn your CIS support into a special moment for someone else.

Honor A Champion 2024

Check back to see the growing list of champions!
Kristyn Buhl-Lepisto

Honored by Scott and Janet Nykaza

Honoring Kristyn for her leadership, passion, and talent in her support of KC Ready 4s.

CIS Staff

Honored by Patti Sholler-Barber

We are so grateful for all the help, care, attention, and fun that CIS provides.

Linda Comer

Honored by Nkenge Bergan

Her passion for every child having access to the BEST education was felt by everyone — children and educators alike. Watching her as a kid and then working with her as a teacher inspired me to be the educator I am today!

Janette (Ms. G.G.) Evans

Honored by Wendy Fields

She is a faithful, giving volunteer. She cares about the betterment of people and the community, which is exhibited in her financial giving and volunteerism via multiple community organizations.

Florence

Honored by Jennafer Cooperrider

Honor my daughter, Florence for reminding me how special young people are and making me a better person everyday.

Jaliyah Harris (my goddaughter)

Honored by Artrella Cohn

She is my inspiration and her strength and beautiful spirit is so special.

Denise Hartsough

Honored by Steven Kreider

Denise has a passion for the scholastic and personal success of students at Loy Norrix as she mentors a student herself and leads our team of mentors as our captain!

Ms. Molly Herndon

Honored by Margaret Powell

Honoring Ms. Molly Herndon, a kindergarten teacher at Winchell Elementary for helping me to read.

Molly Kinnison

Honored by Anonymous

She is always adding the extra component to make events fun and productive, always helpful.

Stacy Ledbetter

Honored by Prentis Hearn

Thoroughly helped me see true leadership. Thank you.

Heather Morgan

Honored by David Morgan

Valerie Owens

Honored by Craig Owens

Valerie is a dedicated 25-year business professor at KVCC. She loves her work and the impact she makes on her students. I am lucky to be her husband and to get to experience her passion for tomorrow’s leaders!

Chris and Jack Peake

Honored by Marcy Peake

Romello Jaylen Phillips

Honored by Dr. Karika Parker

thank you for your hard work and dedication to the children at Washington Writers' Academy.

Mrs. Amy Richmond

Honored by Liam Powell

Honoring Mrs. Amy Richmond, a third grade teacher at Winchell Elementary for letting me learn more about science.

Dr. Darrin Slade

Honored by Patti Sholler-Barber

Dr. Slade cares deeply about KPS student success working diligently to support each student's path to that success.

Linnaea Thomas

Honored by Doreen Thomas

As a teacher, school administrator, public school advocate and CIS Volunteer, Linnaea has continued to serve as an example to others of the power to change lives for the better through quality education and support for student learning.

Mindy VanDyke

Honored by Felicia Lemons

Thank you for being my champion! I am grateful for our friendship.

John Valenti

Honored by Marjorie Simmons

Woodward School Staff

Honored by Frank Rocco

The staff at Woodward Elementary, thank you for all your hard work for our students and families.

Jay Yelton III and James Liggins Jr.

Honored by Carolyn Williams, Probate Judge, Retired

You two represent the best qualities of legal professionals who apply their skills to serving the public good. Thank you for your service.