Founders Day Celebration 2026

Time to Celebrate!

Founded on March 8, 1911, by a group of educators at the University of Illinois as an inclusive organization, KDP was dedicated to encouraging and recognizing that women are excellent educators whereas other national honor societies were only recognizing male educators. We are excited to celebrate 115 years of teaching excellence in 2026. ✨

We invite you to a live, virtual Founders Day Celebration for KDP members and stakeholders on Monday, March 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m. EDT via Zoom. 🎉

Three Founders Awards representing the achievement of KDP’s highest honors will be presented, seven Eleanor Roosevelt Chapter members will be inducted, and the Dr. Marilyn Nicholas National Student Teacher of the Year will speak at this live event. 🏆

Your impactful role within KDP is valued, and your presence will make this day even more memorable. Attendees are encouraged to have their webcams on, type into the chat, and use the reactions during the Founders Day Celebration on Zoom. We’re excited to share this celebratory experience with you—reflecting on our shared history and celebrating the future we are building together.  💜


Calendar Invite

 

 

Meet the Award Recipients

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Dr. Clarissa Gamble Booker

Professor of Reading Education and Reading Programs Coordinator, Prairie View A&M University

2026 Dr. Thomas E. Musselman Award for Service Excellence

Dr. Rick Breault

Associate Professor of Leadership Studies, Ashland University

2026 Dr. Truman L. Kelley Award for Scholarship Excellence

Dr. Susan Trostle Brand

Professor Emerita, Early Childhood Education, University of Rhode Island

2026 Dr. William C. Bagley Award for Leadership Excellence