No child is too difficult for Mary Cecchinato and her teachers. Each child is welcomed, embraced, supported and loved into self-acceptance and joy. Mary is extraordinary at emotional intelligence. She reads children and families as well as she reads books. No one forgets Mary, her big heart and her undying professionalism.

Some teams are mediocre. Kim Tice's OAEYC team is the opposite. They envision, plan, create and execute program after program to uplift the early childhood profession in a state where the profession's funding annually takes a debilitating beating. Kim anticipates what people need and her team provides innovative ways for ece professionals to grow, learn and thrive. This team deserves an award for never giving up despite overwhelming odds.

Many people dream. Suzi and Helen made their dream come true. West Virginia now has an outstanding annual Leadership Academy for early childhood directors. With each graduating class, quality of ece programs spreads throughout the state. These visionary women who do everything behind the scenes deserve ample recognition for changing their state's educational opportunities.

In founding the World Forum for Early Childhood Education, Roger and Bonnie Neugebauer raised the awareness of young children's needs and rights globally, while bringing together educators who are making a difference.

Children call Ms. K. Rene Childers, "Hooray for Children" because of her deep and abiding commitment to loving, understanding and empowering each special needs child to meet and exceed her capacity. The world is a better place thanks to the tireless and selfless teacher.

Ruth Ann Ball has devoted her life to uplifting, supporting, mentoring and inspiring teachers to exceed their dreams. As a teacher educator, Ruth Ann is the epitome of compassion, emotional intelligence and grace.

Dr. Beverlyn Cain is a "quiet storm" of compelling reform in teacher education. She is fearless in her quest for quality and authenticity.

Alicia loves and respects each of her students.

Ann is humble, hard working, and likely to be surprised by this nomination.

See above.