thread is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 thread Awards, which recognize outstanding leaders strengthening early childhood education in Alaska.
Every day, Alaskan child care professionals make a powerful difference in the lives of young children and families. thread Awards celebrate those individuals whose passion, dedication, and leadership are helping build a stronger early learning system across the state.
Nominations are open March 1 through March 31, 2026, and we encourage communities across Alaska to help us recognize the educators who are shaping the future of quality child care and early learning in Alaska. This year, thread will honor recipients in two categories: The Cindy Harrington Heart & Mind Award and The Legacy Award.
Cindy Harrington Heart & Mind Award
The Cindy Harrington Heart & Mind Award honors an individual currently working in the field of early childhood education in Alaska who exemplifies passion, strength, and professionalism.
Cindy Harrington was one of the founding mothers of early childhood work in Alaska and served on thread’s Board of Directors until her untimely passing in May 2014. Her leadership and advocacy helped strengthen the field of child care and early learning across Alaska, and her impact continues to be felt today.
This award celebrates Cindy’s legacy by recognizing an Alaska child care professional who demonstrates the same commitment to children, families, and colleagues. Cindy was known for recognizing others’ achievements, particularly those who overcame barriers while continuing to grow professionally and support those around them.
The recipient of the Cindy Harrington Heart & Mind Award reflects the spirit Cindy championed: resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.
As Stephanie Berglund, CEO of thread, shared: “Cindy had an incredible capacity to love and share her energy and positivity with others. She is one of the founding mothers of early childhood work in Alaska and has been part of making great change and progress in the field. She will be dearly missed but honored through her legacy and advocacy for quality early care and education.”
Legacy Award
The Legacy Award recognizes an individual who has made significant and lasting contributions to early childhood education in Alaska.
Launched in 2025 in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the thread Awards, this honor recognizes leaders who have dedicated their careers to strengthening the quality, accessibility, and impact of child care programs and early learning opportunities across Alaska.
Legacy Award recipients may include educators, advocates, program leaders, or community champions who have helped shape the field through years of service, leadership, and innovation. Their work has created meaningful and lasting change for Alaska’s children, families, and early childhood educators.
Nominate an Inspiring Early Childhood Leader in Alaska
Do you know an Alaska early childhood educator who inspires others through their dedication to young children?
Is there a child care professional or early learning leader who has made a lasting impact in your community?
Now is the time to recognize their work!
Submit a nomination for the 2026 thread Awards between March 1 and March 31, 2026. By nominating someone, you help shine a light on the individuals who are strengthening child care programs, early learning opportunities, and the future of Alaska’s children.
Award recipients will be celebrated during the virtual thread Awards ceremony on Friday, May 8, 2026, where they will receive a commemorative glass award and a $1,000 prize in recognition of their contributions to early childhood education in Alaska.
Help us honor the passion, dedication, and leadership of Alaska’s early childhood educators and child care champions.
Nominate someone today and help celebrate the people making a difference for Alaska’s youngest learners.
Sponsor the thread Awards
Join us in honoring Alaska’s child care leaders and sponsor the thread Awards program!
As a sponsor, you’ll support this event and the early childhood educators and programs who provide high-quality child care for Alaska’s children and families.
Sponsorship deadline is April 9, 2026.