30th Anniversary Fall Breakfast: Lighting the Way
Event Recap
Thank you for Lighting the Way
On November 6, 2025 at the KCI Expo Center, we celebrated the stories, people, and partnerships that continue to light the way for NKC Schools students.
- The morning opened with North Kansas City High School’s Pacific Island Dancers, showcasing the diversity and spirit of our schools.
- A student panel from our four high schools shared how Foundation‑supported opportunities shape their paths forward.
- We honored Dr. Terry Ward and Jan Lewis with the 2025 Cornerstone Award for their leadership and lasting impact.
Thanks to generous sponsors and partners, more than $130,000 was pledged this anniversary year to strengthen scholarships, classroom innovation, and vital programs. Thank you for helping us light the way for what’s next.
Together, we serve 22,000 Students across NKC Schools
- 3,100+ families had meal debt cleared or reduced last year.
- $65,000 in Kahler Innovation Grants fueled hands‑on learning for 7,000+ students.
- 146 scholarships opened doors for graduating seniors.
- $500,000+ invested in programs that empower students and staff across the district.
Save the Date
Save the Date - Fall Breakfast 2026
Thursday, October 22, 2026
More details to come. Sponsorship opportunities open soon.
Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors
With gratitude to our 2025 sponsors - including our Student Showcase Spotlight partner Diamond Assets and Catalyst Circle sponsors Holmes Murphy, Ikey Harris & We‑Mac Manufacturing Co., the Sue & Bill Woods Charitable Fund, and USG - for leading the way this year.
Cornerstone
Champion
Neighbor
Our Sponsors
Student Showcase Spotlight
Catalyst Circle
Bright Lights Sponsor
Jan & Dr. Bruce Kauk
30th Anniversary Champion
Joe Jacobs
Jan Lewis / Lewis Learning Impact Fund
Bill & Sue Woods Charitable Fund
Dick & Mary Linna Woods
People Power Sponsor
Lighting the Way Sponsor
Margaret Cummings
Susan Hines
Dr. Chad Sutton
Bright Futures Sponsor