Contact Us | Sign In
Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders
Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders
What is the Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders Award?

 

NAA's Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders identifies young leaders and recognizes and cultivates the talent of afterschool champions who have the potential to influence the field of afterschool for years to come. The selected emerging leader honorees will have demonstrated contributions that have started to influence beyond individual programs to organizations and communities, a proven passion for developing themselves and others, active engagement in efforts to elevate the afterschool field, and demonstrated persistence in their work to grow as leaders.  

Join NAA in recognizing extraordinary individuals, age 30 or under―firm believers in the power of afterschool―who are vested in things like advocacy, professional development, creative program design, the power of youth voice, data and evaluation, and social justice.  


If you know of a candidate worthy of this honor, review the information below and submit your nomination! 

2025 Nomination Information

The 2025 Class of Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders will honor individuals age 30 or under as of Nov. 1, 2024 who are: 

  • Active in the afterschool community beyond their specific organization or program, including, but not limited to membership in NAA and NAA affiliates
  • Actively engaged in higher-level efforts to elevate the afterschool field and profession 

In addition, nominees should demonstrate: 

  • A proven passion for developing themselves and others, and persistence in growing as a leader 
  • Contributions that have begun to influence entire organizations, communities, and beyond
  • Understanding of the NAA Core Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies (CKSCs) at the Apply Level, moving toward Amplify in many of the CKSC content areas. 

We encourage all nomination submissions to share concrete examples of how a nominee demonstrates the qualities listed above. Are you ready to nominate yourself or another candidate? Click below to get started!

The nomination period for the 2025 award has closed.     

Nomination considerations: 

  • NAA appreciates all afterschool professionals and leaders, but this honor is designed specifically for exceptional young leaders who show deep passion for and lifelong potential in this work.
  • Successful nominations will include specific examples demonstrating the full extent of why a candidate is deserving of this unique, national recognition. 
  • To ensure that honorees are representative of the diverse communities served by our profession, we encourage nominations of Black, Indigenous, and other emerging leaders of color.  

Each honoree will receive a free NAA membership, a free NAA25 Convention registration and recognition at Convention, ongoing leadership development, support in broadening their professional networks, and other opportunities to expand their impact. Those selected must be willing to respond to a written interview, submit a professional photo, agree to be featured in the Spring 2025 issue of AfterSchool Today magazine, and be highlighted on NAA's social channels and digital content.  

Important dates:
Nomination period: Friday, Nov. 1- Wednesday Dec. 4, 2024


"This group of leaders represents the creativity, dedication, and commitment of the best of our next generation of the afterschool profession. We are honored to recognize them because we know the important role strong leadership plays in promoting positive outcomes for the children and youth." - Gina Warner, President and CEO, National AfterSchool Association 



Examples of Recent Next Gen Nominations
CLICK HERE TO VIEW EXAMPLES