Dress Code: Dressy Casual (Florals Encouraged!)

Event Itinerary:

4:30 pm: Early Check-in, Meet & Greet

5:00 pm: Drinks & Hors d'Oeurves

6:00 pm: Event Program, Student Performances, Raise the Paddle, Dessert Dash

Joel Ryan, Master of Ceremonies

Joel has been part of the Lake Washington school district community for more than 20 years — as a resident, parent, PTSA member, volunteer, and girls’ basketball coach in Kirkland and Redmond.

Joel is the Executive Director of the Washington State Association of Head Start and ECEAP, where he advocates for early learning, special education, and ensuring kids — especially those facing the biggest barriers — have what they need to succeed. He also serves as an adjunct professor in the Early Childhood and Family Studies department at the University of Washington, working with the next generation of educators and leaders. In addition, Joel serves on the Governor’s Serve Washington Commission and on a mental health task force, because helping kids isn’t just about academics — it’s about making sure they feel supported, confident, and ready to learn.

Joel’s work has drawn national attention this past year, with appearances on Good Morning America, PBS, CNN, NBC, MSNOW and NPR.

His proudest accomplishment, though, is raising his daughter in this wonderful community.

Joel is honored to support LWSF and to help ensure that every student in the Lake Washington School District has the support and resources they need to thrive.